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Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caton's Plumbing

Excavation Laborer

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Overview Excavation Technician/Laborer Catons Plumbing & Drain Service, located in Catonsville, has been providing the greater Baltimore area with the best plumbing maintenance and repair services ...

Marv's Plumbing & Heating

Excavation Laborer

Cheyenne, WY · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

As an Excavation Laborer, you'll evaluate customer needs, provide repair options, and perform drain cleaning services. You'll have the chance to work both independently and as part of a supportive ...

Caton's Plumbing

Excavation Laborer

Catonsville, MD

$70K - $90K/yr

Excavation Technician/Laborer Catons Plumbing & Drain Service, located in Catonsville, has been providing the greater Baltimore area with the best plumbing maintenance and repair services for more ...

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How much do excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavation in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $27.64 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.
More about Excavation jobs
What cities are hiring for Excavation jobs? Cities with the most Excavation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavation jobs? The most popular types of Excavation jobs are:
What states have the most Excavation jobs? States with the most job openings for Excavation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Excavation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Excavation jobs are:
Excavation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Excavation Laborer

Excavation Laborer

Roto-Rooter Services Company

West Seneca, NY

$80K - $100K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Roto-Rooter rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 241 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Experienced Excavation Technician/Laborer

We have an excellent opportunity for an experienced Excavation Technician for sewer & water services repairs/replacements at our Buffalo branch, located in West Seneca, NY. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial excavations that resolve plumbing issues resulting from compromised or broken plumbing lines.  The ideal candidate will have 3 years of excavation experience.  The average yearly earning for this position is $80,000-$100,000. 

Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.

Roto-Rooter, America’s premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services.  We are proud of our 90-year history of success, but it’s our future that has us so excited!


  • Prioritize safety by strictly adhering to OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety protocols
  • Interact with customers as needed
  • Perform excavation tasks followed by pipe repairs or new pipe installations as an Excavation Technician
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials
  • Work in confined spaces and open trenches
  • Locates and arrives at job sites in a timely manner; safely drives and operates service vehicle between job sites

  • Hands-on experience in excavation projects for both residential and commercial construction settings is required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license. Depending on the vehicle driven, a Commercial driver's license may be required.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in navigating excavation environments, including confined spaces and trench operations, with efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines
  • Current CDL or ability to obtain within 90 days if necessary for the vehicle driven
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience a plus
  • Be willing to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, to meet the demands of the position.
  • 3 years of excavation experience.

At Roto-Rooter we believe our greatest investment is in our employees.  We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That’s why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout our 90 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are a great fit at our company.


We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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