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Excavator Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Drain Werks

Plumber/Excavator Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$48K - $74K/yr

The Plumber/Excavator Operator is responsible for diagnosing and repairing plumbing equipment in both residential and commercial environments. This position will inspect the effectiveness and safety ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

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Excavator Operator information

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$12

$23

$37

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Alabama is $23.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $25.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do they pay an excavator operator?

Excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment or in high-demand areas may earn higher wages.

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.

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.

How do you get a job as an excavator operator?

To become an excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in operating heavy machinery. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) can also improve job prospects.

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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,314 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Excavator Operator (Birmingham, Alabama)

National Salvage & Service

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

National Salvage & Service Corporation is an industry leader and a growing company. We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator for our Fuel Yard in Birmingham, Alabama.

National assists Class One Railroads in their track renewal and maintenance programs. If you enjoy working outside, this is the career for you. This position entails following a procedure and using an established method to ensure safety and accuracy. Our operators are detail oriented, and safety oriented. At National, we focus on completing each job the right way, the first time. To be considered you MUST have previous experience of operating an excavator. Class A or Class B CDL is preferred.

Duties, Tasks, and Responsibilities

  • Ability to safely dig with an Excavator
  • Ability to operate and control attachments such as shears, blades, buckets and more
  • Able to operate other types of heavy equipment such as backhoes, pavers, dozers and graders to perform various takes (excavating, moving, grading dirt, etc...)
  • Make judgments regarding the most efficient operation of equipment and attachments
  • Perform daily safety and maintenance checks on equipment
  • Aid other crew members on the ground
  • Dig ditches or trenches, backfill excavations, or compact and level earth to grade specifications, using picks, shovels, pneumatic tampers, or rakes
  • Must be reliable and responsible
  • Filling out daily paperwork using a smartphone, laptop or computer device

Position-Specific Competencies

  • Able to work long hours in all weather conditions.
  • Hold valid driver's license.
  • Ability to lift 25 pounds.
  • Completely and accurately fill out daily paperwork.
  • Able to use a smartphone.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge to make small repairs.
  • Follow all Safety Programs, Policies and Procedures

Minimum Requirements

  • Class A or B CDL is preferred. MUST be able to drive standard transmission.
  • Three to five years' experience preferred.

Benefits of National

  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Stable work through all seasons, with full time work through the winter
  • Full health benefits including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, and more
  • 401(K) retirement plan, with company contributions
  • Flexible dates for paid time off

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position. Duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

This is a non-exempt position.

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