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Excavator Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Excavation Apprentice

Stow, OH · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The Excavation Apprentice is responsible for assisting the Excavation team carrying out a variety of tasks such as tidying up work areas, unloading materials, preparing worksites, cleaning debris ...

Excavation Install Apprentice

Rigby, ID · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Position Summary As an Excavation Install Apprentice, you'll work alongside experienced technicians, learning the ins and outs of underground utility work and how to safely operate the equipment that ...

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Excavator Apprentice information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator apprentice in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavator apprentice?

An Excavator Apprentice is an entry-level worker who is learning to operate excavators and other heavy equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprentices receive on-the-job training and may also attend classroom instruction to learn about safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and proper operating techniques. The goal of the apprenticeship is to gain the skills and experience needed to become a qualified excavator operator. Duties often include assisting with digging, grading, and site preparation on construction projects. Over time, apprentices take on more responsibilities as they progress through their training.

What can I expect from the typical training and mentorship process as an excavator apprentice?

As an Excavator Apprentice, you will typically begin with hands-on training under the supervision of experienced operators. You'll learn essential skills such as machine operation, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols. Apprentices often rotate through different job sites to gain exposure to various tasks and conditions, and regular feedback from mentors helps you improve your technique and understanding. This collaborative environment allows you to gradually take on more responsibility as your skills develop.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavator apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Excavator Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of construction safety, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, basic hand tools, and willingness to earn OSHA safety certifications are common requirements. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help apprentices work effectively with experienced operators and crews. These skills are crucial for maintaining safety, learning proper techniques, and progressing in the construction industry.

What is the difference between Excavator Apprentice vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectExcavator ApprenticeHeavy Equipment Operator
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly a basic certificationCommercial driver's license (CDL), certification in equipment operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, training environmentsConstruction, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, contractorsConstruction firms, mining companies, government agencies

Excavator Apprentices typically undergo training and gain experience operating excavators under supervision, focusing on skill development. Heavy Equipment Operators have more advanced certifications and experience, often operating multiple types of machinery independently. While apprentices are in training, operators are fully qualified workers. Both roles are essential in construction projects, but the apprentice role is a stepping stone toward becoming a certified heavy equipment operator.

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For Excavator Apprentice jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Excavation Apprentice

Delaware, OH

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air
11 - 50 employees

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Excavation Apprentice

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air | Delaware, OH

Build a skilled-trade career with a company that invests in you.

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air is looking for a full-time Excavation Apprentice to join our team. This is a hands-on opportunity to learn excavation, underground utilities, plumbing, and other skilled trades while working alongside experienced technicians.

We are looking for someone who wants to learn, works hard, and is willing to help wherever the business needs them. While excavation will be your primary focus, you may also assist our plumbing and HVAC teams as needed based on business needs.

Earn $20-$24+ Per Hour

Our technicians are compensated through a combination of hourly pay and weekly revenue share, providing the opportunity to earn approximately $20-$25 per hour or more as you develop your skills and contribute to the team.

You can also earn time-and-a-half during on-call rotations.

What You'll Learn & Do

As an Excavation Apprentice, you'll work alongside experienced team members and gain hands-on experience in:

  • Excavation, trenching, digging, and underground utility work
  • Sewer and water line installation and repair
  • Assisting with plumbing and excavation projects
  • Operating and learning to safely use excavation equipment and tools
  • Site preparation, cleanup, and restoration
  • Reading and following job plans and instructions
  • Proper safety procedures and use of PPE
  • Customer service and professional communication
  • Documenting work through ServiceTitan
  • Assisting plumbing and HVAC technicians when business needs require

The goal is to develop you into a skilled, dependable technician with opportunities to grow within our company.

What We're Looking For

You don't need years of experience. We're looking for someone who:

  • Is dependable and willing to work hard
  • Wants to learn a skilled trade
  • Can take direction and work well with a team
  • Is comfortable working outdoors and performing physical work
  • Can communicate professionally with customers and coworkers
  • Has a valid driver's license that meets company insurance requirements
  • Is willing to assist with plumbing or HVAC work when needed
  • Is flexible and willing to learn different areas of the business

Previous excavation, construction, plumbing, HVAC, or mechanical experience is a plus, but not required.

Your Schedule

Most days begin at our shop between 7 AM and 8 AM for training and a morning team meeting.

Our normal workday we would like to say ends at 5:00 PM each day. However, our commitment is to take care of the customer, so if a job requires additional time to complete, we stay until the work is finished and the customer's needs are taken care of.

Participation in our on-call rotation also provides additional earning opportunities at time-and-a-half.

Benefits & Perks
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • HSA/FSA
  • Employee referral program
  • Education assistance and mentorship
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Uniforms provided
  • Monthly phone allowance
  • Company vehicle and gas card for qualifying plumbing and HVAC technicians
  • Company-paid online apprenticeship opportunity after 90 days to work toward Ohio plumbing or HVAC certification
  • Company parties and family events
Build Your Future With Us

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air has been family-owned and serving Ohio since 1977. We provide residential and commercial plumbing, HVAC, excavation, and septic services.

We believe in developing people, not just filling positions. You'll have the opportunity to learn from experienced technicians, receive mentorship, develop multiple skilled-trade abilities, and advance as your skills and responsibilities grow.

Your primary focus will be excavation, but we value team members who are willing to learn and assist across the company when business needs require it. This can give you exposure to multiple skilled trades and create additional opportunities for advancement.

If you're ready to work hard, learn a trade, and build a career-not just find a job-we want to meet you.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME