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Excavator Hour Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

... for the excavator or property owner at the work site. Your Responsibilities as a Locator ... We have a 48-hour turnaround time on many locates, which means we generally work the day after ...

... for the excavator or property owner at the work site. Your Responsibilities as a Locator ... We have a 48-hour turnaround time on many locates, which means we generally work the day after ...

... 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. With locations across the United States, Our Client is redefining ... excavation-related plumbing work • Oversee and mentor apprentice and journeyman plumbers on job ...

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Excavator Hour information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do excavator hour jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator hour in Decatur, AL is $24.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 5000 hours a lot for a digger?

For an excavator operator, 5000 hours is considered moderate to high usage, indicating significant experience but not necessarily the end of the machine's lifespan. Proper maintenance and operating conditions can extend an excavator's useful life beyond this point. Typically, excavators can last between 10,000 to 20,000 hours with proper care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Excavator Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often accompanied by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with heavy machinery controls, safety regulations, and GPS or grade control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operation, minimizing risk, and maintaining productivity on construction or excavation sites.

What is the difference between Excavator Hour vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectExcavator HourBackhoe Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, demolition projects, excavation sitesConstruction sites, utility work, landscaping projects
Job RoleOperate excavators for digging, lifting, and demolitionOperate backhoes for digging, trenching, and material handling

Both roles require similar certifications and often work in construction environments. The main difference lies in the equipment operated: excavator hours involve operating large, specialized excavators, while backhoe operators handle versatile backhoe loaders. Understanding these distinctions helps employers and workers choose the right role based on project needs and equipment familiarity.

What is an Excavator Hour?

An 'Excavator Hour' refers to the use of an excavator machine for one hour, often used as a billing unit in construction and excavation projects. It tracks how long the equipment is operated, which helps in estimating project costs, equipment rental, and labor expenses. This metric is important for contractors and clients to budget accurately and ensure fair charging for equipment use.

What are some common challenges faced by Excavator Operators working hourly, and how can they prepare for them?

Excavator Operators working on an hourly basis often face challenges such as adapting to varied job sites, managing equipment maintenance, and operating under tight project deadlines. Since work locations and conditions can change frequently, flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are essential. Operators should also stay proactive with equipment inspections and communicate closely with site supervisors to ensure safety and efficiency. Building strong working relationships with crew members can help streamline operations and reduce downtime.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

Jobs that can earn $500,000 or more annually often include specialized roles such as senior executives, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and high-level corporate attorneys. In the construction industry, experienced project managers or business owners overseeing large-scale projects may also reach this income level, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve high responsibility or risk.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The hourly rate for a mini excavator operator typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Operators should be skilled in equipment operation and safety protocols to ensure efficient work. Rates may vary based on certifications and job site requirements.

How much do excavators charge an hour?

Excavator operators typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on factors such as equipment size, project complexity, location, and experience. Larger or specialized excavators may cost more, and rates can vary based on whether the work is scheduled or emergency-based.
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Hour jobs in Decatur, AL? For Excavator Hour jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Excavator Hour jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Excavator Hour job openings:
Utility Locator

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


USIC rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 261 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

281st of 428 rated business services


Job description

Compensation

$18.00 Hourly

Job Description

Text JOBS to 811DIG (811344) to connect with our hiring team today!

Are you an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys independent field work and is looking to jump start your career? If you are a quality-conscious, safety focused, hard-working individual, then consider an exciting long-term career at USIC!

The USIC name and brand are highly recognized and respected for our strong commitment to quality and safety. We are America's leader in underground utility damage prevention and advanced infrastructure services, performing more than 84 million locates each year for the more than 1,400 telecommunications, electric, gas, water, and sewer utilities and municipalities we serve nationwide. Our mission is to deliver quality, efficient, safe, and innovative solutions to protect our partners' infrastructure and critical assets. At USIC, we are committed to Leading from the Ground Up.

We are looking for individuals who consider themselves problem solvers, take pride in public safety, and thrive in a fast-paced, exciting work environment. Our communities are your communities.

If you're looking for growth, we've got you covered. We provide a quality training program and opportunities for advancement. No prior locating experience is needed, but experienced locators are encouraged to apply!

Our technicians spend their workdays on the go, independently working in the field using their company-provided vehicle. We use best-in-class ticket and claims management systems to ensure clear and complete mark-out services for the excavator or property owner at the work site.

Your Responsibilities as a Locator:

  • Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems.

  • Thoroughly search for underground utilities in a designated area, accurately marking the location, completing the necessary documentation, and photographing each locate.

These are daytime, full-time positions. We have a 48-hour turnaround time on many locates, which means we generally work the day after holidays and some weekends, as needed. Must be able to work overtime, weekend shifts, and on-call shifts (including nights and weekends), dependent upon the needs of the business.

Why You'll Love Working for Us (Our Benefits):

  • 100% paid training - We're invested in you, starting on your first day.

  • High-quality company vehicle & fuel card - All work-related expenses are paid. This means you won't be putting mileage on your personal vehicle for work.

  • Company phone & equipment - Advanced technology you can count on.

  • DailyPay - Access your pay when you need it.

  • Comprehensive insurance options - A variety of excellent insurance choices including medical, dental, vision, and life.

  • 401(k) with company match - We'll help you save for the long term with our competitive 401(k) employer match program.

  • PTO & paid holidays - Even in your first year, so you can spend time with your loved ones.

  • Weekend & holiday on-call pay - Earn extra money while on call over the weekend or on a company holiday, even if not called out to an emergency.

  • Technician Incentive Plan - Bonuses based on individual quality and safety results.

  • Career Path Program (CPP) - Unmatched in our industry. We recognize employees who strive to be the best in their roles with distinctive titles, promotions, and more.

  • USIC All Stars - Our employee recognition program. Earn points for living our company values and celebrating milestones. Redeem your points for gift cards or merchandise!

  • Tenure Boots Program -$200 voucher to buy a new pair of work boots on your first anniversary and every year after.

  • Education Partnership & Scholarship Program - Discounted tuition for USIC employees, their spouses, and dependents through Indiana Tech (courses available online nationwide). Scholarships available for employees. Credit hours for completing our utility locator training curriculum and/or for military service.

  • Employee discounts & perks - Outstanding discounts at major retailers and service providers.

What We Need from You (Our Requirements):

  • Able and willing to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Previous outdoor experience is a plus.

  • Proficiency with technology

  • Available to work overtime, weekends, and on-call shifts as needed.

  • Able to pass a drug screen (this is a safety-sensitive position).

  • Valid driver's license and a safe driving record

  • Able to work in a confined space; walk, bend, and lift up to 75 lbs.

  • Able to distinguish between colors used to identify wiring and mark underground utilities.

  • Able to read, understand, and reference locate tickets, as well as maps and prints.

  • Able to communicate clearly with colleagues, customers, contractors, and homeowners.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans are encouraged to apply.

When texting, message and data rates may apply.View our terms and conditions here: https://www.usicllc.com/terms-and-conditions and our privacy policy here: https://usicllc.com/privacy-policy.


What USIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About USIC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

USIC is a leading provider of underground utility damage prevention services, performing over 70 million locates each year. With a strong reputation for reliability, USIC offers a comprehensive range of utility services across the United States and Canada. The company's mission is to deliver innovative and efficient solutions that prioritize safety and protect critical assets and infrastructure for its partners.

Industry

Internet and it

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2008

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