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Excavator Operator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Golderado Contracting Corp

Excavator Operators At Golderado, the work we do is built by the people on our sites every day. We're looking for skilled, hardworking tradespeople who take pride in their craft, look out for their ...

KLS Earthworks

Excavator Operator

Rocky View County, AB · On-site

Join Our Team KLS Earthworks & Environmental is hiring a Excavator Operator. We are looking for a professional who is enthusiastic and safety conscious to work full-time in Calgary. Reporting to the ...

Golderado Contracting Corp

Excavator Operators At Golderado, the workwe do is built by the people on our sites every day. We're looking for skilled, hardworking tradespeople who take pride in their craft, look out for their ...

Park Paving Ltd.

Excavator Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$36 - CA$42/hr

Park Paving Ltd. has been locally owned and operated for over 50 years as one of the largest road construction contractors in Edmonton, and we are looking for EXPERIENCED EXCAVATOR OPERATORS to join ...

Canoco

Excavator Operators

Fort Saskatchewan, AB · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to join our Civil Division as soon as possible. This role is essential to the successful completion of our civil construction ...

Ledcor Group

Excavator Operator

Fort Saskatchewan, AB · On-site

Are you an experienced Excavator Operator looking for an exciting opportunity to work on a major industrial project? At Ledcor, we take pride in safety and quality, and we're looking for dedicated ...

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Excavator Operator information

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$13

$24

$34

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Alberta is $24.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $27.40 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.
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,358 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Spruce Grove, AB • On-site

Option Excavating Inc
See more jobs at Option Excavating Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Option Excavating is hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our growing underground utilities team.

We're looking for operators with experience excavating for water mains, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and underground utility installations.


Responsibilities

  • Operate excavators and other heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Excavate to required grades and elevations.
  • Work closely with gradepersons, pipelayers, and foremen.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections.
  • Follow all safety procedures and company policies.
  • Assist with maintaining productive and safe job sites.


Qualifications

  • Experience operating excavators in underground utility construction.
  • Knowledge of trench safety and excavation practices.
  • Ability to excavate accurately to grade.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Reliable and safety-focused.


What We Offer

  • Competitive wages based on experience.
  • Full-time employment.
  • Immediate start available.
  • Strong safety culture.
  • Opportunities for advancement.
  • Supportive and professional work environment.


Join a company that's growing and values experienced operators who take pride in their work.