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Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

MECHANIC I (Heavy Equipment)

Raleigh, NC ยท 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 ...

Groundman - Underground (Duke)

Wendell, NC ยท On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements. * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Pike Electric, LLC is a ...

CDL Driver (Duke)

Raleigh, NC

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Burford's is a Non-union ...

Groundman - Underground (Duke)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements. * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Pike Electric, LLC is a ...

Groundman - Underground (Duke)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements. * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled VA Approved Apprenticeship ...

Groundman - Underground (Duke)

Wendell, NC ยท On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements. * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Pike Electric, LLC is a ...

CDL Driver (Duke)

Raleigh, NC

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Burford's is a Non-union ...

Groundman - Underground (Duke)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements. * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled VA Approved Apprenticeship ...

CDL Driver (Duke)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Burford's is a Non-union ...

Groundman - Underground (Duke)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements. * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Pike Electric, LLC is a ...

CDL Driver (Duke)

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Understands excavation and shoring requirements * Capable of checking voltage on transformers ... Apprenticeship Program - GI Bill Benefits Available to Eligible Veterans Burford's is a Non-union ...

Showing results 21-33

Excavator Apprentice information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $52,889 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

MECHANIC I (Heavy Equipment)

Branch Civil

Raleigh, NC โ€ข On-site

$45K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Branch is searching for an entry-level and safety-oriented Mechanic to join our well-established, growing company. The Mechanic I is responsible for assisting with the inspection, maintenance, and repair of heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, backhoes, graders, and haul trucks. This role works under close supervision of senior mechanics and supervisors to develop technical skills and ensure the safe and efficient operation of company-owned equipment.

Duties/Responsibilities
  • Perform routine preventative maintenance (lubrication, oil changes, filter replacements, inspections).
  • Assist in diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues.
  • Complete minor repairs and adjustments under supervision.
  • Maintain service records and accurately document work performed.
  • Inspect equipment for safety hazards and report deficiencies.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, and service manuals as directed.
  • Keep work area, tools, and shop organized and clean.
  • Follow company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and environmental guidelines.
  • Assist senior mechanics with major component repairs (engines, transmissions, hydraulics).
  • Ability to work independently on routine tasks and as part of a team.
Duties/Responsibilities Cont.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Basic training in automotive/heavy equipment repair (trade school, apprenticeship, or equivalent preferred).
  • 0โ€“2 years of relevant experience.
  • Valid driverโ€™s license (CDL preferred or ability to obtain).
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. and work in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.
Compensation

Salary Min: $45,850
Salary Max: $76,415
Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors. 

Competencies
Productivity
Delivering High Quality Work
Dependability
Following Policies and Procedures
Working Safely
Travel
Supervisory Responsibility
Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, taste and smell. The employee must frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position which will typically involve 40+ hours a week. Due to the nature of the job, the employee must be available on-call early/late hours to deal with delays, bad weather and emergencies at the job site.

AAP/EEO Statement

It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of the Company not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or status as a veteran, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law, with respect to recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, and other terms and condition of employment.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.