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Excavator Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

They are proficient in the use of a diverse range of equipment, including, Excavators, Loaders ... Carries out the work, operating the vehicles according to the prerogatives of the required ...

Job Summary We are seeking an Equipment Operator to support our construction project's field operations through the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment, including dozers, excavators, and ...

Experience operating loaders, excavators, dozers and other heavy equipment * Welding and fabrication experience * Preventive maintenance and repair experience Physical Requirements * Use of required ...

Experience operating loaders, excavators, dozers and other heavy equipment * Welding and fabrication experience * Preventive maintenance and repair experience Physical Requirements * Use of required ...

Additionally, the position involves operating a variety of heavy equipment for tasks such as snow removal, excavation, and material transportation, as well as collaborating with multi-disciplinary ...

Additionally, the position involves operating a variety of heavy equipment for tasks such as snow removal, excavation, and material transportation, as well as collaborating with multi-disciplinary ...

Pay: $23-$35+ per hour DOE (Higher pay available for experienced foremen and skilled operators ... Operate equipment (skid steers, bobcats, mini excavators - preferred) General Labor * Site prep ...

Showing results 41-60

Excavator Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,594 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Arctic Slope Regional Corporation rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating a variety of construction equipment to support civil and infrastructure projects in remote and/or challenging environments. This position plays a key role in site development activities, including excavation, grading, material handling, and utility installation. The operator will work closely with field supervision and crew members to ensure work is completed efficiently, safely, and in accordance with project specifications.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Perform Camp and maintenance duties as needed in a remote job setting.
  • Daily inspections and preventative maintenance of equipment.
  • Ensure loads are evenly balanced and secured.
  • Properly fill out necessary paperwork and have good communication skills.
  • Perform other job-specific duties as requested by the supervisor.
  • Comply, understand, and support the company's safety culture to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Ability and willingness to abide by the company's code of conduct, policies and procedures.
  • Comply, understand, and support the company's safety culture to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Strong knowledge, understanding and sensitivity to the Inupiat culture.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of employees or customers.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • Knowledge of building systems, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and fire alarm, with the ability to investigate Operations and Maintenance manuals to schedule routine maintenance and build an inventory of critical spares.
  • Ability to prioritize and multitask to meet assigned deadlines.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality.

CORE COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS
  • Customer Focus - Is dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers.
  • Decision Quality - Makes good decisions based on a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgment.
  • Drive for Results - Can be counted on to exceed goals successfully.
  • Conflict Management - Steps up to conflicts, seeing them as opportunities; can find common ground and get cooperation with minimal noise.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required
  • Three (3) years' experience operating Civil/Heavy construction equipment.
  • Ability to meet safety expectations of the position.
  • A valid Class A or B Commercial Driver's License.
  • Air Brakes endorsement.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to safely perform the essential functions of this position.
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.
The work environment is in a busy construction setting. The noise level in the work environment usually varies. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions and may be required to travel in small and large commercial aircraft.
NOTE: This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise. The statements contained herein are intended to describe the principal functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibilities, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements.
ASRC Builders is a drug free workplace and pre-employment drug testing is part of the hiring process.
ASRC Construction and its family of companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability, protected veteran status, age or any other legal protected status. EEO Poster
ASRC Construction is the construction division of Arctic Slope Regional Corporation, an Inupiat-owned corporation created as a result of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
ASRC's family of companies apply a shareholder preference in employment, to the maximum extent feasible, as authorized by law.

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