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Excavation Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Kennedy Excavating LLC is seeking qualified applicants to drive dump trucks. Driver must pass a background check and also a drug test. Applicant must have 2 years experience and be able to drive a ...

Kennedy Excavating LLC is seeking qualified applicants to drive dump trucks. Driver must pass a background check and also a drug test. Applicant must have 2 years experience and be able to drive a ...

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Local grading and excavating company that has been in business since 1997 is looking to add 2-3 qualified employees to our team. The candidate must have a valid, clean drivers license with at least 2 ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Local grading and excavating company that has been in business since 1997 is looking to add 2-3 qualified employees to our team. The candidate must have a valid, clean drivers license with at least 2 ...

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

Showing results 21-40

Excavation information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$19

$27

How much do excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation in Raleigh, NC is $19.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is excavation a good career?

Excavation is a skilled trade involving operating heavy machinery like backhoes and bulldozers to dig and move earth, often requiring certifications and safety training. It offers steady employment opportunities in construction and infrastructure projects, with potential for advancement and good wages for experienced workers.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Excavation jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Excavation jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Excavation jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Excavation job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavation job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,877 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dozer and Excavator

S.T. Wooten

Apex, NC

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


S.T. Wooten rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

JOB LOCATION: Moncure, NC area


POSITIONS AVAILABLE: 3 Dozer Operators/3 Excavator Operators


PRIMARY FUNCTION:

Operate one or several types of power construction equipment including but not limited to motor-graders, bulldozers, rubber tire backhoes or trackhoes, rollers, articulated dump truck drivers, front-end loaders or hydraulic excavators to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete, asphalt, or other hard surface pavement on road beds, parking lots, airport runways and taxiways. May perform minor repairs and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  1. Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, or other materials, using trucks, power cranes, shovels, or related equipment.
  2. Start machine, engage clutch, and push and move levers, switches, and pedals to guide machine along forms or guidelines and to control the operation of machine attachments, such as blades, buckets, scrapers, or swing booms.
  3. Drive and maneuver equipment equipped with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation, or rocks or to distribute and level earth or terrain.
  4. Operate machines to spread, smooth, level, or steel-reinforce stone, concrete, or asphalt on road beds or other job sites as needed.
  5. Operate tamping machines or manually roll surfaces to compact earth fills, foundation forms, and finished road materials, according to grade specifications.
  6. Observe grade in order to adjust machine settings and indicate low spots for workers to add material.
  7. Conduct documented pre-shift inspections of equipment for safety and mechanical defects.
  8. Work long, flexible hours as demanded by our customers including nights, weekends, and work outside for extended periods during all seasons of the year.
  9. Align machines, cutter heads, or depth gauge makers with reference stakes and guidelines or ground or position equipment, following hand signals of other workers.
  10. Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
  11. Inspect, clean, maintain, and repair equipment, using mechanics' hand tools. Conduct pre-shift inspections and report any concerns or malfunctions to supervisors.
  12. Learn and follow safety regulations.
  13. Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.
  14. Perform necessary work while complying with all company policies and procedures.
  15. Perform additional duties as required or directed by their immediate supervisor or other manager.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

  • Must be a minimum of 18 years old.
  • High School diploma or GED.

Work Experience:

  • A minimum of 2 years operating experience on dozer, excavator or rollers. Experience on multiple machines is a plus.
  • Must have good work ethic and be dependable.
  • Must be able to work various hours as needed.
  • Must be willing to work out of town if needed.
  • GPS experience a plus but not required.

Heavy Physical Demands:

Heavy physical effort required including pulling and lifting or moving heavy weight material with frequent lifting or moving materials or equipment (over 80 pounds). If a position specific Physical Demands sheet is attached, it will describe in more detail the physical demands that are required.


Physical Activity:

Position requires the ability to continuously work around any or all of the following: noise, dust, heat, cold, oil and heavy equipment. Personal protective equipment is normally required of the position. Position requires ability to exchange ideas quickly and clearly and the ability to receive and evaluate detailed information and instructions.


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the position. All employees may have other duties assigned at any time.

EOE. Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.


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