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Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Muschlitz Excavating

Excavator Operator

Bath, PA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Excavator Operator Muschlitz Excavating, LLC., Eastern PA's premier sitework contractor, is seeking skilled excavator operators to join our sitework construction team. The ideal candidate will have ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench ...

New Day Executive Search

Excavator Operator

East Kingston, NH · On-site

$23.25 - $30.75/hr

Excavator Operator We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Excavator Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience operating heavy equipment, including excavators ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Excavator Operator Location: Kershaw, South Carolina About Us: Turner Staffing Group is a leading staffing agency dedicated to connecting skilled professionals with rewarding opportunities. We are ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Excavator Operator Location: Kershaw, South Carolina About Us: Turner Staffing Group is a leading staffing agency dedicated to connecting skilled professionals with rewarding opportunities. We are ...

Twisted Pine Excavating

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Pray, MT · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Twisted Pine Excavating is hiring an experienced Excavator Operator to run heavy equipment on a variety of site, grading, and underground utility jobs. If you've got real seat time, take pride in ...

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Peoria, AZ · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator Archer Western Construction is currently seeking an Excavator Operator for the CAP/LPP Intersection Wellfield, in Peoria, AZ. The Excavator Operator's primary function is to ...

Jobs on Cash

Excavator Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Job Title: Excavator Operator Work Location : Charleston, SC Job Type: Contract Responsibilities: - Description As a part of our continued growth, we are looking for dedicated and passionate ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Excavator Operator

Fountain, NC · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking an Excavator Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Kershaw, SC

$20.25 - $27/hr

Excavator Operator Location: Kershaw, South Carolina About Us: Turner Staffing Group is a leading staffing agency dedicated to connecting skilled professionals with rewarding opportunities. We are ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Excavator Operator Location: Kershaw, South Carolina About Us: Turner Staffing Group is a leading staffing agency dedicated to connecting skilled professionals with rewarding opportunities. We are ...

Jobs on Cash

Excavator Operator

Ladson, SC · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator Work Location : Ladson, SC Job Type: Contract Responsibilities: - Description As a part of our continued growth, we are looking for dedicated and passionate employees to grow with ...

William A. Hazel, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$23.25 - $30.75/hr

Hazel, Inc. is now hiring an Excavator Operator who will work our Dirt Crew. This is one of numerous excavator operator jobs we are now hiring for at our office in Northern Virginia. Benefits ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench boxes, manholes, and ...

Urban InfraConstruction

Excavator Operator

Farmers Branch, TX · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Excavator Operator Urban Infraconstruction is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to support underground utility construction projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of ...

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Excavator Operator information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator 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 the difference between Excavator Operator vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectExcavator OperatorBackhoe Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred, OSHA safety trainingSimilar certifications, often OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machinery operationConstruction sites, utility work, landscaping
Job DutiesDigging, lifting, demolition with large excavatorsDigging trenches, loading, small-scale excavation
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, infrastructureConstruction, landscaping, utility companies

While both Excavator Operators and Backhoe Operators work in construction and use similar safety certifications, Excavator Operators typically handle larger machinery for heavy-duty tasks, whereas Backhoe Operators focus on smaller-scale digging and loading. The choice depends on project size and equipment used.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

There is generally strong demand for excavator operators due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and urban development. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after in the construction and mining industries, especially in regions with active development projects.

How do I get into operating an excavator?

To become an excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a training program or apprenticeship that covers equipment operation and safety procedures. Many employers require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and certification from a recognized training organization. Gaining hands-on experience and understanding of machinery, safety standards, and environmental considerations are essential steps in entering this field.

What is the highest salary for an Excavator Operator?

The highest salaries for excavator operators can exceed $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as construction or mining. Factors like certifications, location, and the complexity of projects can influence earning potential.

What does an Excavator Operator do?

An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery called excavators to move earth, dig trenches, lift materials, and perform site preparation on construction projects. They control the excavator’s boom, bucket, and other attachments with precision to complete tasks safely and efficiently. Excavator Operators also perform routine equipment maintenance, follow safety protocols, and collaborate with site supervisors and other workers. Their work is crucial in building foundations, roads, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

What Is an Excavator Operator?

As an excavator operator, you control the heavy equipment that moves dirt, sand, and other materials on construction sites. In addition to operating the excavator machine, your job duties are to perform routine maintenance on your excavator and coordinate with your supervisor for major repairs. Since your heavy machinery will move earth, rubble, and debris around the construction sites at your jobs, you need to communicate with the site supervisor and other construction workers to ensure everyone’s safety while you’re operating the excavator.

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 a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, maintenance software, and various models of excavators is typically required. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation on construction sites, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by Excavator Operators on construction sites?

Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating with other heavy equipment to maintain safety and efficiency. Managing unexpected underground obstacles and ensuring accurate digging according to site plans also requires strong attention to detail. Effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is essential to minimize delays and prevent accidents, making teamwork a critical aspect of the role.

What's the going rate for an Excavator Operator?

The average hourly rate for an excavator operator ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery typically earn higher wages, and rates may vary based on union membership or contractor requirements.
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

Muschlitz Excavating

Bath, PA • On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

Muschlitz Excavating, LLC., Eastern PA's premier sitework contractor, is seeking skilled excavator operators to join our sitework construction team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience operating excavators and will be responsible for performing various tasks related to earthmoving and site preparation. This role requires a strong understanding of construction processes and the ability to load trucks, and maintain efficient operations in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate excavators to dig and load earth materials on construction sites.
  • Load trucks and manage material flow to support sitework operations.
  • Collaborate with site supervisors and others to ensure project specifications are met.
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance checks.
  • Follow safety rules and regulations to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet production goals.
  • Report equipment issues or concerns to management promptly.

Experience:

  • 5+ years of experience in heavy equipment operations, specifically excavators.
  • Ability to operate excavators with precision for underground utilities is a plus.
  • Experience with GPS equipment a plus.
  • Familiarity with construction site operations and procedures is essential.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety practices on the job site.

Requirements:

  • Must pass a background check and drug test prior to hiring.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physically demanding tasks.
  • Ability to work effectively in varying weather conditions and physical environments.

Benefits:

  • Paid vacation
  • Paid holidays
  • Major Medical including Health, Vision, and Dental
  • 401k with Company Match
  • Job Type: Full-time

Job Type:

  • Full-time
  • In-person
  • Standard Work Week: Four 10-hour days and one 8-hour day

Muschlitz Excavating, LLC. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

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