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Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Durham, NC

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Butner, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Kittrell, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Wake Forest, NC

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

Sunrock

Underground Utility Pipe Layer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Work alongside excavator, backhoe, and dozer operators during trenching and backfill operations ... Heavy Equipment Apprenticeship Program * 8 paid holidays start on day 1 * Guaranteed 40 hours ...

L J Electrical Co.

Electrician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$52K - $70K/yr

This employee may be part of a crew of journeyman and apprentices or the lead person supervising ... Operate equipment such as backhoe's, trenchers, lift trucks and excavators. Must adhere to company ...

Gregory Electric

Electrician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Perform excavation work (digging trenches) using hand tools or powered equipment as needed. * Collaborate effectively with foremen, electricians, apprentices, and project managers to ensure project ...

Gregory Electric Company Inc

Electrician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

Perform excavation work (digging trenches) using hand tools or powered equipment as needed. * Collaborate effectively with foremen, electricians, apprentices, and project managers to ensure project ...

Branch Civil

MECHANIC I (Heavy Equipment)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$45K - $76K/yr

... excavators, loaders, backhoes, graders, and haul trucks. This role works under close supervision of ... Basic training in automotive/heavy equipment repair (trade school, apprenticeship, or equivalent ...

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Excavator Apprentice information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator apprentice in Raleigh, NC is $25.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $27.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The hourly rate for operating a mini excavator as an excavator apprentice typically ranges from $20 to $30 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the job. Entry-level apprentices may start at the lower end of this range and increase as they gain skills and certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment operation licenses.

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.

Is there an apprenticeship for excavation?

Yes, there are apprenticeship programs for excavator operators that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs typically require participants to learn about equipment operation, safety procedures, and industry standards, often leading to certification or licensing. Apprenticeships usually last 1-3 years and may be offered through unions, trade schools, or construction companies.

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.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Excavator apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, and 27 is not considered too old to start. Many apprenticeships value skills, motivation, and a willingness to learn, regardless of age, and older apprentices often bring valuable experience to the training environment.

What is the highest paid trade apprenticeship?

Excavator apprenticeships are typically part of heavy equipment operator training programs, which can lead to high-paying skilled trades. While wages vary by region and experience, experienced heavy equipment operators often earn higher wages than many other trade apprenticeships, especially with certifications and specialized skills in operating large machinery. Overall, trades like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC apprenticeships also offer competitive pay, but heavy equipment operation is among the higher-paying options for apprenticeships in skilled trades.

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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Excavator Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Excavator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $52,889 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Lineman 2nd Class - Non-union

Lineman 2nd Class - Non-union

Utility Lines Construction Services, LLC

Durham, NC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Utility Lines Construction Services rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overhead Distribution Apprentice Lineperson

The Overhead Distribution Apprentice Lineperson will assist with construction and maintenance of overhead distribution lines and equipment.

Pay: Competitive/Hourly

Benefits:

  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Short/Long Term Disability
  • Matching 401(k) Plan
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • FR Clothing Provided
  • Employee Payroll Deduction Program

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

  • Clears work area and maintains safe jobsite conditions.
  • Assists with assembling material and work from the ground to be installed by lineperson and assists with the installation.
  • Climb wooden poles to help perform duties
  • Excavates to assist in the installation of structures or cable as required by contract specification.  
  • Will have contact with public and private property owners to communicate work to be performed.
  • Participates in company training of all regional safety guidelines and is required to perform all work by the regional safety policies.
  • Operates various tools for the work (manual digging devices, wrenches, hammers, drills, come-alongs, jack hammer, power tamp, and handline etc.).
  • Works around hazardous and near energized parts or equipment.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, chain saws and other equipment with proper hearing protection.
  • All other duties as required or requested by Supervisors.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Able to:
    • work with hands above head for extended periods of time.
    • meet and maintain weight restrictions for bucket truck as identified by truck manufacturer.
    • safely enter and exit the aerial device and rear-end of the bucket and derrick trucks
    • effectively cover up to safely complete work on energized lines, and equipment
    • work efficiently and effectively from heights.
    • follow directions, work safely & productively
    • work long hours and overtime during holidays, emergencies, weekends, etc. Subject to call out work.

Education & Experience

  • 1+ year(s) of trade experience or formal training

Pre-Screen

  • Upon offer, employees may be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.

License & Certifications:

  • DOT medical card required within 90 days of employment.
  • Valid commercial driver's license preferred within 90 days of employment.
  • Valid Driver's License required.

Travel Requirements:

  • Must have transportation to and from the show up location.
  • Must be willing to travel out of state for emergency storm work.

Physical Requirements:

  • RARE (up to 10%): sitting, crawling
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): stooping, kneeling, squatting, body twisting, sense of touch, climbing, reading, pushing, balancing.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66 %): walking, manual dexterity, seeing distant, climbing on/off truck, gripping, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., reaching, range of motion, depth perception, lifting, carrying, pulling, climbing ladders, climbing stairs, lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): standing, speaking clearly, seeing, hearing-speech range, color vision, lifting up to 10 lbs.

 Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.

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