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Excavator Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Excavation Install Apprentice

Orem, UT · On-site

In this role, you'll be responsible for excavating and repairing sewer lines, performing plumbing installations and repairs, and ensuring the safe operation of excavation equipment. You'll work on a ...

Stewart Mechanical

HVAC Apprentice

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Apprentice applicants should have trade experience and be willing able to join an apprentice ... Work with equipment (Jumping jacks, scissor lifts, excavators, etc.) Requirements * Reliable ...

1-Tom-Plumber

Sales Plumber Apprentice

Johnstown, PA · On-site

$18/hr

Wellness resources Plumber Helper/Apprentice 1 Description: We are seeking someone who is hard ... cleaning, excavation, etc. No experience is required, but some experience is preferred.

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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 Jul 12, 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'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.

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:
Excavator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Operator - Excavator (Greenville, TX) - Austin Bridge & Road

Operator - Excavator (Greenville, TX) - Austin Bridge & Road

Austin Bridge & Raod, LP

Gainesville, TX • On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Austin Industries rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 79 rated construction

Job description

Austin Bridge & Road is currently seeking experienced Operator - Excavator (Greenville, TX) - Austin Bridge & Road We excel at what we do and are looking for talented construction professionals that want to excel with us. 

The Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment for earthwork projects. 

Responsibilities

  • Perform daily equipment inspections
  • Operate equipment in a safe and controlled manner
  • Able to grade to elevations and tolerances
  • Able to become proficient before advancing to another machine
  • Follow all safety policies and procedures
  • Work hours adjusted to meet the project’s needs; days, nights and weekends
  • Able to work in adverse weather conditions, hot or cold temperatures
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • 1+ years of experience operating heavy equipment
  • Must have a strong commitment to jobsite safety
  • Diligent in demonstrating safe work practices.

We offer excellent benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, and a matching 401K plan. We are proud to be a 100% Employee Owned Company (ESOP)! To learn more about Austin, please go to https://www.austin-ind.com/our-company/who-we-are.

About Austin Bridge and Road

A leader in the heavy highway and transportation infrastructure industry for more than 100 years, Austin Bridge & Road has built landmark projects from Arizona to North Carolina, including complex urban highway interchanges, tollways, runways, port facilities, border crossings, automated people mover guide-ways and specialty bridges. Our customers rely on our expertise in construction management on conventionally bid projects and newer procurement methods, including design-build, construction manager at-risk and construction management/general contracting.

It is the policy of Austin Bridge & Road, L.P. to assure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regards to their race, religion, sex, color or national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected characteristics or status. Such action shall include: employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training.

No agency inquiries please.

Austin Industries and all operating divisions (Austin Bridge & Road, Austin Commercial, and Austin Industrial) do not accept unsolicited resumes, candidates’ names or summaries from staffing agencies, search firms, or third-party recruiters. Any unsolicited resumes, candidates’ names or summaries submitted to Austin Industries, or any of its employee-owners, become the property of Austin Industries and Austin Industries will not pay.

Austin Bridge & Road is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

See the “Know Your Rights” poster available in English and Spanish.

See the “Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision” poster available in English and Spanish.

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