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Excavation Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions. * Performs other tasks as needed. Benefits: * Group Health Insurance * Vision Insurance

Central Specialties

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions. * Performs other tasks as needed. Benefits: * Group Health Insurance * Vision Insurance

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions. * Performs other tasks as needed. Benefits: * Group Health Insurance * Vision Insurance

Knife River Corporation

EXCAVATOR

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Safely and properly operate excavation equipment * Communicate effectively (verbal, listening, written) and work with difficult people under high stress situations. Self-motivated, team-player with ...

Bituminous Roadways

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Handle excavation around existing utilities with care and precision. * Load and unload materials as needed (e.g., bedding stone, spoil, pipe). * Perform daily equipment inspections and routine ...

Knife River

EXCAVATOR

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

Safely and properly operate excavation equipment * Communicate effectively (verbal, listening, written) and work with difficult people under high stress situations. Self-motivated, team-player with ...

McGough Construction

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$46.25 - $47.24/hr

Handle excavation around existing utilities with care and precision. * Load and unload materials as needed (e.g., bedding stone, spoil, pipe). * Perform daily equipment inspections and routine ...

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Excavation information

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$10

$22

$31

How much do excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation in Minnesota is $22.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavation?

An excavation job involves the process of digging, moving, and removing earth, rock, or other materials to prepare a site for construction, utility installation, or other projects. Excavation workers use heavy machinery such as backhoes, bulldozers, and excavators to perform tasks safely and efficiently. This type of work requires knowledge of soil types, safety regulations, and site preparation techniques. Proper excavation is crucial for building foundations, creating trenches, and preventing structural issues.

What does an excavation worker do?

A typical day in an Excavation role involves operating heavy machinery to move earth, dig trenches, or prepare sites for construction according to project specifications. You’ll review site plans, perform equipment inspections, and adhere closely to safety standards while working outdoors in various weather conditions. Collaboration with project managers, surveyors, and other construction workers is common to ensure the job is done efficiently and accurately. The role often requires physical stamina and adaptability, as projects and terrain can vary widely. This dynamic environment offers the satisfaction of seeing tangible progress and contributing directly to construction milestones.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in excavation?

To excel in Excavation, strong knowledge of earthmoving techniques, heavy equipment operation, and safety regulations is critical, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Proficiency in using excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and sometimes GPS or laser-guided systems is often required, along with certifications such as OSHA safety training or a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Attention to detail, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help individuals stand out in this role. These abilities ensure safe, precise, and efficient site preparation, which is vital for the success of construction projects.

Is excavation a good career?

Excavation is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery to dig and move earth, often requiring certifications and safety training. It offers steady employment opportunities, physical work, and the potential for advancement in construction and infrastructure projects.

Is there good money in excavation?

Excavation jobs can offer competitive wages, especially for experienced operators and those with specialized skills or certifications. Pay rates vary by region, project complexity, and experience level, with opportunities for overtime and advancement in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavation jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Excavation jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavation jobs in Minnesota?

For Excavation jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavation jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavation jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Excavation jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Excavation job openings:

Excavation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 90% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,618 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Utilities Superintendent - Excavation Projects

Wolff Excavating

Cottage Grove, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Utilities Superintendent – Excavation Projects | Heavy Civil Construction | Underground Utilities

Wolff Excavating is hiring an experienced Utilities Superintendent to lead excavation, earthwork, and underground utility construction projects in South Jordan, UT.

With over 40 years in heavy civil construction, we are known for high-quality site development, grading, trenching, and utility installation. This role is ideal for a hands-on construction superintendent with strong experience in underground utilities (water, sewer, storm drain) who can manage safe, efficient, and on-schedule job sites.

Key Responsibilities
  • Manage field operations for excavation, grading, and underground utility installation
  • Coordinate construction scheduling, crews, subcontractors, and equipment
  • Read and interpret civil plans, blueprints, specifications, and soil reports
  • Oversee trenching, backfill, pipe installation, and site development activities
  • Coordinate permits, inspections, blue stakes (811), and traffic control plans
  • Monitor project progress, productivity, and job costs
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA safety standards and company safety policies
  • Supervise foremen, heavy equipment operators, and labor crews
  • Maintain accurate daily reports, timecards, and project documentation
  • Communicate with project managers, clients, inspectors, and vendors
  • Manage construction equipment, materials, and jobsite logistics
Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in excavation, earthwork, and underground utilities construction
  • Proven experience as a Superintendent, Site Superintendent, or Civil Superintendent
  • Strong background in heavy civil, sitework, grading, and utility installation
  • Experience with water, sewer, storm drain, and dry utilities preferred
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
  • Knowledge of OSHA regulations, jobsite safety, and excavation safety standards
  • Strong leadership, communication, and crew management skills
  • Proficiency in construction scheduling and problem-solving in the field
  • Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
Pay & Benefits
  • Weekly pay
  • Company truck provided
  • 100% employer-paid medical insurance for employee
  • Dental, vision, life, accident, and HSA options
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Stable, year-round work in heavy civil construction
  • Established company with consistent backlog of excavation and utility projects

Wolff Excavating is a trusted name in excavation, site development, and underground utilities. If you are a results-driven construction superintendent ready to lead crews and deliver high-quality projects, apply today.


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