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Excavator Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

City of Kodiak

Equipment Operator I, II, or III

Kodiak, AK · On-site

$29.89 - $34.79/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for providing repair and maintenance services for these ... This includes excavation, backfill and trench protection for facility installation, maintenance and ...

Colas Rail

CDL Heavy Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

CDL Heavy Equipment Operator Company: COLASKA Job Location: ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, USA Type of Contract ... They are proficient in the use of a diverse range of equipment, including excavators, loaders ...

Colas

QAP Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

QAP Equipment Operator Company: COLASKA Job Location: ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, USA Type of Contract ... They are proficient in the use of a diverse range of equipment, including, Excavators, Loaders ...

Colas

QAP Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Job Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator manages the safe and efficient operation of multiple ... They are proficient in the use of a diverse range of equipment, including, Excavators, Loaders ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Alaska

Excavator Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Alaska is $28.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Alaska?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Alaska?

For Excavator Operator jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in AK?

For Excavator Operator jobs in AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,594 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Operator

Association of Village Council Presidents

Bethel, AK • On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

Temporary

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Temporary
Description
Position: Equipment Operator
Department: Transportation
Reports To: Project Superintendant
FLSA Status: Non - exempt
Category: Temporary Project Employee
Pay Rate: DOE
Summary: Assist in the demolition and construction of boardwalks and/or board roads and other duties as assigned.
• Excavate areas and level ground for boardwalks and boardwalk foundations with various types of mid-sized equipment, such as an E-35 Bobcat Mini-Excavator and 5600 Bobcat Tool cat.
• Install Helical Piers and Anchors for boardwalks.
• Erect wood framing for boardwalks using hand and power tools such as hammers, saws, levels, and other power tools.
• Move and locate material on site with fork equipped machinery and trailers.
• Assist in assembly of boardwalk sections.
• Read survey stakes and interpret layout.
• Estimate amount and kind of materials required for job.
• Measure and mark cutting lines on materials.
• Shape or cut materials to specified measurements.
• Assemble and fasten materials to make frameworks or props.
• Verify trueness of structure using plumb bob and level.
• Be aware of potential hazards for oneself, coworkers and general public.
• Recognize and remove damaged or defective parts or sections of structures.
• Work in a safe and efficient manner.
Supervisory Responsibilities: no
Requirements
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Preference will be given to local residents. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
• Local hire preference will be given
Education and/or Experience:
• Proof (evidence) of construction experience
• Show proficiency with heavy equipment operation
Other Skills and Abilities: Yup'ik speaking preferred.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee in order to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Lift 50lbs.
Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Work outside in a construction environment for up to eight hours in the elements.
• Drug testing will be required as a condition of employment
Salary Description
$49,759 - $64,630

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