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Excavator Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Muschlitz Excavating, LLC

Excavator Operator

Bath, PA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Job Overview Muschlitz Excavating, LLC., Eastern PA's premier sitework contractor, is seeking ... Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform ...

Twisted Pine Excavating

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Excavator Operator

Pray, MT · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Twisted Pine Excavating is hiring an experienced Excavator Operator to run heavy equipment on a ... Valid Class A CDL required * Reliable, safety-minded, and shows up ready to work * Willing to get ...

The Crane Company

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Excavator

Vernon, NY · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Excavation Technician We are seeking an experienced and dependable Excavation Technician to join ... Ability to operate skid steers, backhoes, and other heavy equipment * CDL license is helpful but ...

The Crane Company

Be Seen First

Excavator

Vernon, NY · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Excavation Technician We are seeking an experienced and dependable Excavation Technician to join ... Ability to operate skid steers, backhoes, and other heavy equipment * CDL license is helpful but ...

Allan Myers, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Deale, MD · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Louisa, VA

$20.50 - $27/hr

Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Louisa, VA

$20.50 - $27/hr

Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Louisa, VA

$20.50 - $27/hr

Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

Muschlitz

Excavator Operator

Bath, PA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Job Overview Muschlitz Excavating, LLC., Eastern PA's premier sitework contractor, is seeking ... Valid driver's license and reliable transportation. * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform ...

Midlands Contracting

Excavator Operator

Kearney, NE · On-site

$27/hr

We are currently seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to join our growing construction company. A ... Valid driver's license preferred but not required. * Ability to pass a pre-employment (post-offer ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Deale, MD

$26 - $32/hr

Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Deale, MD

$26 - $32/hr

Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

Midlands Contracting

Excavator Operator

Kearney, NE · On-site

$27/hr

We are currently seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to join our growing construction company. A ... Valid driver's license preferred but not required. * Ability to pass a pre-employment (post-offer ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Operate hydraulic excavators (e.g., Cat 330, 336, 349, or similar) to perform precise digging ... Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus. * Must pass pre-employment drug screening and ...

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Excavator Driver information

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How much do excavator driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator driver 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.

Do I need a CDL to drive an excavator?

Excavator operators typically do not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate the equipment on job sites, as excavators are usually classified as construction machinery rather than commercial vehicles. However, if you need to transport the excavator on public roads, a CDL may be required for driving the truck or trailer used for hauling. Certification in equipment operation and safety training are often necessary for employment in this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Excavator Driver on a construction site?

As an Excavator Driver, your daily tasks generally include operating an excavator to move earth or materials, digging trenches, backfilling, and supporting site preparation activities as directed by supervisors. You’ll perform routine safety checks and minor maintenance on your equipment, and often coordinate closely with site managers, ground workers, and other equipment operators to ensure smooth workflow. Adapting to changing site conditions, following strict safety regulations, and maintaining productivity are important aspects of the job. These responsibilities combine technical skill with practical problem-solving to keep projects on schedule and safe.

Is 5000 hours a lot for a digger?

For an excavator driver, 5000 hours of operation is considered a significant amount of experience, indicating proficiency and familiarity with the equipment. Many employers view this as a solid benchmark, though total hours can vary depending on the job type and workload. Regular maintenance and safety training are also important factors in assessing an operator’s skill level.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The hourly rate for operating a mini excavator as an excavator driver typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates may be higher for operators with specialized skills or certifications, and can vary based on the work environment and job duration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Excavator Driver position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Excavator Driver, you need strong spatial awareness, manual dexterity, and experience handling heavy machinery, often supported by a high school diploma and a relevant operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with excavation equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes GPS or laser-guided systems is typically required. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to work collaboratively with site teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure safety, efficiency, and successful project completion on construction and excavation sites.

What is an Excavator Driver job?

An Excavator Driver operates heavy machinery to dig, move, and load earth, rocks, or other materials on construction and excavation sites. They follow site plans, safety protocols, and instructions to ensure accurate and efficient work. Responsibilities may include trenching, grading, and demolition tasks. Skilled operation, equipment maintenance, and adherence to safety regulations are essential for this role.

How to get a job driving an excavator?

To get a job as an excavator driver, you typically need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific excavator operation certification, along with experience operating heavy machinery. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships, training programs, or on-the-job learning is important, and employers often look for safety awareness and knowledge of equipment maintenance.
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Excavator Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Driver job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Commercial Excavator Driver

Commercial Excavator Driver

Team Industry

Nashville, TN

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator with a minimum of 2 years of commercial construction experience. The ideal candidate will operate and maintain a variety of heavy machinery used in commercial construction projects, ensuring precision, efficiency, and safety on every job site.

Key Responsibilities:
- Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, and backhoes for commercial construction projects.
- Perform tasks such as digging, grading, trenching, and material handling with accuracy.
- Conduct routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance to ensure proper functionality.
- Read and interpret site plans, blueprints, and grade stakes to execute work correctly.
- Work closely with site supervisors and other trades to complete projects efficiently.
- Ensure proper equipment operation in compliance with safety standards and project specifications.
- Identify and report mechanical issues or safety concerns promptly.
- Maintain awareness of surroundings to ensure safe operation in active construction zones.
- Assist with site preparation, cleanup, and other general labor tasks as needed.
- Follow OSHA regulations and company safety policies at all times.


Qualifications:
- Valid Heavy Equipment Operator certification or license (if required by state/local regulations).
- Minimum of 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in commercial construction.
- Strong understanding of equipment operation, safety procedures, and site protocols.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and grading plans.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
- Ability to work in various weather and environmental conditions.
- Ability to lift and carry heavy materials when necessary.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to pass background check.


Preferred Skills:
- Experience with GPS and laser-guided equipment systems.
- Knowledge of construction site layout and grading techniques.
- Familiarity with preventative maintenance for heavy machinery.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills.
- Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced construction environment.

(Pay is based on experience)

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