1

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 ...

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... Apprentice IEC, Journeyman, Master Courses) Competitive wages Please send a resume to email or call. MINI EXCAVATOR OPERATOR ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Ensure locates are correct * Safely and ...

The Excavation Apprentice holds important roles on the Excavation sites by expediting the completion of underground plumbing projects. * Work with Excavation Team to dig and set septic tanks and ...

Apprentice

Delaware, OH · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air is on the lookout for a full-timeentry-level Apprentice Plumbing, HVAC, and Excavation Tech in Delaware, OH.Earn $15 per hour (Ability to earn up to at least $20 per ...

Apprentice

Delaware, OH · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air is on the lookout for a full-timeentry-level Apprentice Plumbing, HVAC, and Excavation Tech in Delaware, OH.Earn $15 per hour (Ability to earn up to at least $20 per ...

Apprentice

Delaware, OH · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air is on the lookout for a full-timeentry-level Apprentice Plumbing, HVAC, and Excavation Tech in Delaware, OH.Earn $15 per hour (Ability to earn up to at least $20 per ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Excavator Apprentice information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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.

More about Excavator Apprentice jobs

What cities are hiring for Excavator Apprentice jobs?

Cities with the most Excavator Apprentice job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs are:

What states have the most Excavator Apprentice jobs?

States with the most job openings for Excavator Apprentice jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Apprentice jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Apprentice jobs are:

Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Excavation Apprentice

MasterTech Plumbing, Heating and Cooling

Columbia, MO • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Excavation Apprentice – Sewer & Water Line Construction
Position Summary
We are seeking an Excavation Apprentice to support our residential sewer, water service, and underground utility replacement operations at MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Columbia, MO. This position works directly alongside our Lead Excavation Operator, performing excavation, site preparation, equipment support, utility locating support, and restoration activities.
This is a long-term career opportunity for someone who enjoys working outdoors, operating equipment, and learning a specialized trade. Our team performs residential sewer lateral replacements, water service replacements, spot repairs, and trenchless pipelining projects that help homeowners protect and restore critical underground infrastructure.
Previous excavation experience is helpful but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate with construction experience, mechanical aptitude, and a strong work ethic.
Compensation:
✅ $18-$23/hour, depending on experience
✅ Overtime opportunities available
✅ Paid training
✅ Career advancement opportunities
Duties/Responsibilities:
✅ Assist with residential sewer lateral replacements and repairs
✅ Assist with water service replacements
✅ Assist with trenchless liner installations
✅ Prepare and maintain job sites
✅ Load, unload, and transport materials and equipment
✅ Assist with excavation and trench safety operations
✅ Operate excavators and other equipment as trained
✅ Pull equipment trailers and assist with equipment transport
✅ Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
✅ Assist with jobsite cleanup and restoration
✅ Follow company safety policies and procedures
✅ Work closely with the Lead Excavation Operator to learn excavation operations and underground utility work
Requirements/Qualifications:
✔ Willingness to learn specialized skills related to excavation, underground utilities, and trenchless pipe rehabilitation
✔ Mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand and power tools
✔ Ability to lift and move heavy materials and work outdoors in varying weather conditions
✔ Current driver's license with good driving record
✔ Reliable transportation and attendance
✔ Positive attitude and willingness to learn
Preferred Skills (Not Required):
✔ Trailer towing experience
✔ Excavator experience
✔ Landscaping, concrete, utility, plumbing, septic, grading, or public works experience
✔ Construction experience
✔ Skid steer experience
✔ Experience in sewer drain cleaning and hydro-jetting
Who This Position Is Perfect For (this role is a great fit for someone who):
✔ Has worked in landscaping, concrete, utilities, plumbing, septic, grading, public works, or general construction
✔ Enjoys working outdoors and seeing tangible results from their work
✔ Wants to learn equipment operation and specialized construction skills
✔ Takes pride in quality workmanship and working safely
✔ Is looking for a long-term career rather than just another job
✔ Wants to grow with a company that invests in training and development
Physical Demands / Working Conditions:
To adequately perform the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, kneel, squat, stoop, use hands to handle controls, hear, and talk. The employee frequently must reach with their hands and arms.
  • Work outdoors in all seasons
  • Lift and/or move 50 lbs. or more
  • Work around excavation equipment and active construction sites
  • Enter trenches and confined work areas when safe and permitted
  • Perform physically demanding labor throughout the workday
  • The work environment varies depending on the season and scope of work. Employees must be adaptable to changing priorities and maintain effective communication with customers, vendors, and team members.

Safety Considerations:
All employees of MasterTech must consider safety as their primary responsibility. General knowledge of safe working practices and applicable federal/state OSHA requirements is required.
Ready to build a long-term career in a specialized trade with a company that truly values you?
Apply today and let's build something great together.
Career Growth:
This position is designed for individuals interested in building a long-term career in excavation and underground utilities.
You will work directly alongside an experienced Lead Excavation Operator while learning specialized underground utility construction, excavation safety, equipment operation, sewer service replacement, water service replacement, and trenchless rehabilitation techniques.
As skills develop, qualified employees may have opportunities to learn equipment operation and advance into Equipment Operator and Lead Operator roles over time.
📢 MasterTech Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
 

Powered by JazzHR

p18IJ5c7iX