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Excavator Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Wilson Companies

Excavation Crew Lead

Stow, OH · On-site

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 ...

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air

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 ...

Emergency Plumbing Heating & Air

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 ...

Commercial Trade Source

Excavator Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Paid Apprenticeship Programs * Tool Purchase Assistance * Ongoing Safety Training & Education What You'll Do As a CTS Equipment Operator, you'll: * Safely operate GPS excavators in a construction ...

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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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Excavator Apprentice jobs near you
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.

Lead Excavator Operator

Fairfield, OH • On-site

Thomas & Galbraith
See more jobs at Thomas & Galbraithexternal

$35 - $45/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Overview
Want to be part of one of the fastest-growing HVAC and plumbing companies in the Midwest? Thomas & Galbraith is expanding, and we're looking for top talent like YOU to help us continue our success. People come for the job, but they stay for the career growth, stability, earning potential, and opportunity. Our clients love us, and we're confident you will too.
The Role
The Lead Excavator is responsible for completing residential sewer and water line repair and replacement projects safely, efficiently, and profitably. This is a hands-on excavation role. Our Excavation Leads are responsible for the full scope of the job, including operating equipment, trenching, pipe installation, sewer replacements, pipe bursting, restoration, and ensuring the job is completed from start to finish. The ideal candidate has experience working for a residential plumbing or drain company performing sewer line replacements, trenchless excavation, and underground utility work.
What's In It For Me?
  • Earn $35-$45 per hourly + commission
  • Medical Insurance, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • FREE Employee & Dependent Telehealth (No Copay)
  • Company-Matched Health Savings Account (HSA) and 401(k)
  • Company-paid Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company-paid Employee + Family Life Insurance
  • Wellness Program and EAP (Mental Health Support)
  • Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance, Accident Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance
  • PTO
Responsibilities
What Will I Do?
  • Perform residential sewer and water line repair and replacement projects
  • Operate excavation equipment safely and efficiently in residential environments
  • Complete trenchless sewer replacements, including pipe bursting when required
  • Excavate, install piping, backfill, grade, seed, straw, and restore work areas
  • Pour and finish concrete as needed
  • Read and execute project scopes while adapting to field conditions and unexpected changes
  • Ensure all work is completed to company quality and safety standards
  • Accurately track labor, materials, and job progress
  • Maintain company vehicles, equipment, and job sites in clean working condition
  • Coach and mentor Sewer Install Apprentices and helpers on job responsibilities and safety
  • Participate in ongoing training and development opportunities
  • Be available for overtime, early mornings, or extended hours during high workload periods and varying weather conditions
Qualifications
Do I Have What it Takes?
  • CDL License Required
  • 2+ years of residential excavation experience with a plumbing, sewer, or underground utility company
  • Experience with residential sewer line replacement and trenchless excavation required
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Pipe bursting experience strongly preferred
  • Experience completing jobs from excavation through final restoration
  • Ability to operate excavation equipment in tight residential spaces
  • Plumbing license is not required, but is a plus
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and customer service skills

EQUAL EMPLYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Wrench Group and its affiliates are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. The company encourages all qualified candidates who are eligible to work in the United States to apply, but it does not sponsor applicants or employees who require a visa to work legally.
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