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Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Minneota, MN

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... apprentice license) Preferred Qualifications: * Background in generator or telecom site ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Minneota, MN · On-site

$29 - $40/hr

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... apprentice license) Preferred Qualifications: * Background in generator or telecom site ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Minneota, MN

$29 - $40/hr

Excavate, form, and pour concrete slabs per engineering drawings and site specs. * Interpret ... apprentice license) Preferred Qualifications: * Background in generator or telecom site ...

Fehn Companies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Albertville, MN · On-site

$45.61/hr

Proven ability to perform excavation, grading, trenching, and material handling tasks efficiently ... The pay range for this position is based on the 49-union wage scale, ranging from Apprentice level ...

Ambient Edge

Plumbing Manager

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$150K/yr

Directly manage Plumbing Supervisors, Lead Technicians, and Apprentices. * Recruit, onboard, and ... Oversee proper handling of hazards (sewer exposure, confined spaces, excavation safety). * Partner ...

New

Volarify

Master Plumber (Licensed) -(ID# 645)

Blaine, MN

$65K - $120K/yr

Perform drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, video camera inspections, and excavation-related plumbing work * Oversee and mentor apprentice and journeyman plumbers on job sites * Ensure all work complies ...

Ambient Edge

Plumbing Manager

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$150K/yr

Directly manage Plumbing Supervisors, Lead Technicians, and Apprentices. * Recruit, onboard, and ... Oversee proper handling of hazards (sewer exposure, confined spaces, excavation safety). * Partner ...

New

Volarify

MN · On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

Perform drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, video camera inspections, and excavation-related plumbing work * Oversee and mentor apprentice and journeyman plumbers on job sites * Ensure all work complies ...

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Excavator Apprentice information

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 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 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.

How do you get a job as an excavator apprentice?

To become an excavator apprentice, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some programs may require a valid driver's license. You can apply through construction companies, unions, or apprenticeship programs that provide on-the-job training and classroom instruction in operating heavy equipment like excavators.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Apprentice jobs in Minnesota? For Excavator Apprentice jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Apprentice jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Apprentice jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Excavator Apprentice jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Excavator Apprentice job openings:
Excavator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, and 92% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Heavy Equipment Operator, Utility Construction

Push Inc

Harmony, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating assigned equipment used to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water facilities. This position will assist with all aspects of the job requiring operation of both smaller and larger scale heavy equipment along with possible or occasional basic labor duties. Must have field experience digging with heavy equipment preferably around utilities in rural and urban areas, experience reading prints and schematics and the ability to train and mentor other team members.

PUSH, Inc. is a privately owned premier communications and power utility contractor headquartered in Rice Lake, WI. who has been providing telecom infrastructure to connect people globally for 50 years through its dedicated team members who have integrity and continually strive for excellence.

Physical and Environmental Factors:

  • Ability to work outdoors and to work in all types of outdoor weather.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry, and lift as needed.
  • Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet, and limbs in performing skilled movement.
  • Ability to travel and be away from home for extended periods of time.
  • 100% Field.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

  • Field experience with digging operations in rural and urban areas around utilities.
  • Responsible for daily maintenance on construction equipment used.
  • Ability to operate equipment, including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Successfully excavate around existing utilities.
  • Provide training and assistance to co-workers learning to be operators.
  • Perform routine labor (potholing, set-up of equipment, conduit/duct/cable placement, set pedestals) as required.
  • Drive tow vehicle hauling equipment to and around job site.
  • Assist with all aspects of the job including basic labor responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Work Experience: This person should have demonstrated field experience with digging operations around utilities in rural and urban areas. Must have experience operating utility construction equipment including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Industry Knowledge: General knowledge of utility construction procedures, including print reading. In addition, have knowledge of or be familiar with all procedures and associated tools and equipment necessary to install underground utilities in the most effective, safe, and profitable manner.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver’s License, Class A CDL preferred.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screenings.
  • Demonstrated field experience operating backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe around utilities.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Ability to maintain equipment and hand tools.
  • Ability to read, comprehend and carry out instructions.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Abide all company and manufacturer safety procedures and industry safety standards, in addition to attending mandatory safety meetings.

Benefits of Joining the PUSH Team:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability – Industry Leading!
  • Free Teladoc, No-Cost Care Options
  • 401K with Company Match up to 3%
  • Competitive pay, weekly checks
  • Paid PTO and Holidays
  • Bonus Potential
  • Training & Advancement Opportunities
  • Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • In-house CDL Program
  • Unlimited Referral Bonus Program
  • And Much More!

Push, Inc is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEOC/M/F/D/V)