1

Excavation Jobs in Ridgefield, WA (NOW HIRING)

CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Strong work ethic Company Description Emeritec Inc. is a new company specializing in Hydro-Excavation. Our primary area of service is the Portland / Vancouver area. We are always looking for team ...

Journeyman Plumber

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$38 - $58/hr

Multiple Locations Interested applicants, please apply on our website: www.rotschyinc.com Company Description Heavy civil General Contractor, excavation, subdivisions, utilities, lift stations, roads ...

CDL Driver

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Strong work ethic Company Description Emeritec Inc. is a new company specializing in Hydro-Excavation. Our primary area of service is the Portland / Vancouver area. We are always looking for team ...

HVAC Apprentice

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Work with equipment (Jumping jacks, scissor lifts, excavators, etc.) Requirements * Reliable transportation * Drive motor vehicles * Valid drivers license * Proven attendance record * Work outdoors

Be Seen First

Welder Fitter

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.25 - $28/hr

... excavating, demolition and more. Please visit www.piercepacific.com for more information.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Excavation information

See Ridgefield, WA salary details

$11

$24

$34

How much do excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation in Ridgefield, WA is $24.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the excavation industry, high-paying roles such as senior project managers, business owners, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and successful project management. These roles often require advanced skills, leadership abilities, and a strong understanding of construction and excavation operations.

What does a typical workday look like for someone in Excavation?

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.

How much do excavation people make?

Excavation workers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the project. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher wages, especially in specialized roles or union positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Excavation position, and why are they important?

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 job?

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 do excavation workers do?

Excavation workers operate heavy machinery such as backhoes, bulldozers, and excavators to dig, move, and level earth for construction projects. They also prepare sites by clearing debris, setting up safety measures, and ensuring proper depth and measurements according to plans.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

Excavator operator jobs are in steady demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and land development. Employment opportunities often require experience with heavy machinery and safety certifications, and job growth is expected to continue as these sectors expand.
What cities near Ridgefield, WA are hiring for Excavation jobs? Cities near Ridgefield, WA with the most Excavation job openings:
Infographic showing various Excavation job openings in Ridgefield, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,506 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
As-Needed Archaeological Field Technician - Portland

As-Needed Archaeological Field Technician - Portland

Dudek

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

$20/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Overview
Location(s): Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, Idaho)
Practice/Department: Emerging Regions
Work Environment: Field
Compensation: $20.00-$34.00/hourly*
Dudek's journey began in 1980 with a vision to serve Southern California's water and wastewater agencies.
Today, we are a 100% employee-owned firm supporting clients nationwide and delivering projects that improve and protect the built and natural environments of communities throughout the United States. Our work has been recognized by leading industry organizations, and we've been honored with multiple national Top Workplace Awards.
Our employees are unified by a singular commitment to supporting projects that address key societal issues, such as the transition to renewable energy, infrastructure hardening and repair, environmental protection, and community resilience.
Learn more about our award-winning culture, the benefits and perks of being a Dudekian, and the projects you will have the opportunity to shape.
Position Overview
Who You Are
As an employee you embrace accountability, working safely, and collaboration while thinking resourcefully and independently.
Like all Dudekians, you are curious and solution-oriented, with the ability to adapt quickly to changes and approach challenges with a spirit of innovation.
How You'll Make an Impact
We are seeking qualified, experienced Archaeological Field Technicians for various archaeological projects in the Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, mostly). There may also be opportunities to work on archaeological projects outside of our region, primarily across the Mountain West, Southern Great Basin, and Texas.
An archaeological field technician must possess basic archaeological field and laboratory skills for various survey, excavation, laboratory, and construction monitoring work. Additional assignments may be available for qualified individuals who work well with our team. Competitive wages are based on level of education and experience.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Archaeological survey, excavation, and monitoring
  • During archaeological monitoring the applicant would be responsible for on-site communication with construction and Native American personnel, and for maintaining daily logs that include detailed descriptions of construction activities, communication, and future plans
  • During survey work the applicant will be expected to communicate effectively with crew leader to verify understanding of instructions or site-specific information. Scientific photography, measurement, artifact identification, and recordation of resources will be required
  • During excavation, the applicant will be expected to work well with a team to ensure clear communication. Ability to identify buried resources and document them effectively while working in a team will be necessary

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Archaeology or Anthropology
  • The ability to safely operate a 4wd vehicle
  • Physical ability to carry equipment and supplies (up to 40 lbs.) and walk or hike for long hours during fieldwork
  • Willingness to travel to a project location for several consecutive days
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and have active personal automobile liability insurance by first day of employment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Completed an accredited field school certification
  • Previous archaeological survey experience in the Pacific Northwest and experience recording a variety of archaeological site and isolate types in this region
  • Experience with a wide range of archaeological field methods including pedestrian survey, testing/evaluation, and monitoring
  • Understanding and willingness to safely accommodate difficult weather and other environmental conditions and challenges
  • Ability to operate field equipment, including GPS equipment, cameras, and tablets
  • Knowledge of and experience using ESRI Collector and/or Field Maps
  • Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships
  • Ability to provide and receive feedback
  • Ability to resolve conflict through collaboration and communication

Compensation: $20.00 - $34.00/hourly*
*Final agreed-upon compensation will be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, an individual's related experience, education, certifications, skills, and work location. Successful candidates must pass a pre-employment drug test and background check prior to beginning employment.
Working Conditions
  • This job operates in an outdoor or office-based environment and this role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, etc.
  • This job requires project site visits, based outdoors which can include excessive noise, uneven walking surfaces, extreme weather, and moving vehicles and equipment.

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This job requires the following:
  • Working on a computer, sitting, or standing for long periods of time in an office or remote office setting.
  • Employees must be capable of bending, squatting, climbing ladders, and lifting up to 35 lbs. unassisted; 50lbs in a team lift (two or more employees).
  • Attending meetings, both in person and virtually, and speaking on the phone with peers, clients, etc.
  • Specific vision abilities, including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Outdoor activity may involve walking/trekking in uneven terrain over long distances in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time.

Connect with us!
LinkedIn
Instagram
YouTube
Dudek Talent Community
Dudek is committed to creating a workplace where all employees, regardless of their background, feel valued, respected, and have equal opportunities to succeed. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential to our business success, and we are dedicated to fostering a culture where everyone can thrive. We are committed to fair and equitable processes, based on merit, free from any discrimination.
Dudek is genuinely committed to equal employment opportunities within our company and on our project teams. Dudek is also committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Dudek's operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any employee of Dudek, including supervisors and coworkers. Equal employment opportunities will be extended to all persons (including those with disability and veteran status) in all aspects of the employment relationship, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, layoff, recall, and termination. Any employee who violates this policy and Dudek's commitment to equal employment opportunities will be subject to disciplinary action.
*As-needed and part-time employees are eligible for our 401(k) plan, sick leave, and our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). As-needed and part-time employees have the option of additional benefits like medical benefits and ESOP participation provided they meet minimum hours worked during the 12-month look back measurement period. Speak with your recruiter to learn more.
Dudek is a U.S.-based employer. All positions are based in the United States and require U.S. work authorization.