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Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Fountain Hills, AZ · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

Excavator Operator Archer Western Construction, LLC., a member of The Walsh Group is currently seeking an Excavator Operator for the Water Mountain West Region / Palisades Water Main Replacement ...

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator Archer Western Construction is currently seeking an Excavator Operator for the Water Mountain West/Apache Junction Sewer District, in Apache Junction, Arizona. The Excavator ...

OM MANUFACTURING LLC

Excavator Operator

Mayer, AZ

$22 - $30/hr

This is a hands-on field role responsible for operating excavation equipment safely and efficiently on active construction sites. The right person is reliable, experienced behind the controls, and ...

OM MANUFACTURING LLC

Excavator Operator

Mayer, AZ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

This is a hands-on field role responsible for operating excavation equipment safely and efficiently on active construction sites. The right person is reliable, experienced behind the controls, and ...

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

The Excavator Operator's primary function is to operate an Excavator at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment operators are ...

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Fountain Hills, AZ · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

The Excavator Operator's primary function is to operate an Excavator at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment operators are ...

Phillips

Production Excavator Operator

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Production Excavator Operator Phillips is seeking experienced Production Excavator Operators to support our mining team on our project site near Denver, Colorado. This position requires efficient ...

Phillips

Production Excavator Operator

Morenci, AZ

$22 - $29/hr

Production Excavator Operator Phillips is seeking experienced Production Excavator Operators to support our mining team on our project site near Denver, Colorado. This position requires efficient ...

Phillips

Production Excavator Operator

Morenci, AZ

$22 - $29/hr

Production Excavator Operator Phillips is seeking experienced Production Excavator Operators to support our mining team on our project site near Denver, Colorado. This position requires efficient ...

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Fountain Hills, AZ

$22 - $29/hr

The Excavator Operator's primary function is to operate an Excavator at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment operators are ...

The Walsh Group

Excavator Operator

Apache Junction, AZ

$21.25 - $28/hr

The Excavator Operator's primary function is to operate an Excavator at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment operators are ...

Fann Contracting

Excavator Operator

Prescott, AZ · On-site

$42/hr

Fann Contracting, Inc - Northern Arizona's leading heavy-civil and heavy-highway contractor has immediate openings for a safe, experienced and versatile EXCAVATOR OPERATOR for Prescott, AZ and ...

Fann Contracting, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Prescott, AZ · On-site

$42/hr

Fann Contracting, Inc - Northern Arizona's leading heavy-civil and heavy-highway contractor has immediate openings for a safe, experienced and versatile EXCAVATOR OPERATOR for Prescott, AZ and ...

Phillips, Inc.

Production Excavator Operator

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Phillips is seeking experienced Production Excavator Operators to support our mining team on our project site near Denver, Colorado. This position requires efficient excavator work in all types of ...

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Excavator Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Arizona is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.63 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 Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,702 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Excavator Operator

The Walsh Group

Fountain Hills, AZ • On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago

Walsh Group rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Excavator Operator

Archer Western Construction, LLC., a member of The Walsh Group is currently seeking an Excavator Operator for the Water Mountain West Region / Palisades Water Main Replacement Project, in Fountain Hills, AZ.

The Excavator Operator's primary function is to operate an Excavator at the site of work to construct, maintain, or repair highway, heavy civil, or building type structures; equipment operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the jobsite as needed.

Our employees are built to succeed. Employees are provided the opportunity to work all over the U.S. in our Building, Transportation, and Water Divisions, as well as gaining accessing to industry-leading training. We are dedicated to career advancement by rewarding hard work and initiative.

Join the team that is building the infrastructure where you work and live!

Responsibilities
  • Operates a Excavator to complete tasks such as digging, excavating, and move and/or transport materials such as dirt, rocks, and other types of aggregate
  • Must have knowledge of operating procedures as it pertains to loading and unloading materials
  • May oil, grease, service, and make normal maintenance adjustments on equipment; perform daily safety and maintenance checks; complete paperwork and other documentation as needed
  • May perform other related duties as required
Qualifications
  • 3-5 Years Operating Experience Preferred
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs; may be required to work in adverse weather conditions
  • Requires the ability to comply with all safety policies and procedures; communicate effectively with co-workers and supervisors to ensure projects are completed properly
  • Possess a strong work ethic and desire to learn
  • Requires good manual dexterity; may be standing, bending, kneeling or sitting for long periods
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening

The Walsh Group, Ltd. Is committed to providing equal opportunity to qualified applicants with disabilities to compete for jobs. To request a reasonable accommodation in completing this application, please contact the Human Resources Department at 312-563-5905 or hr@walshgroup.com.

An Equal Opportunity Employer, Disability/Veteran

Salary Range Disclaimer

Please note that job titles may span more than one career level. The actual base pay is dependent upon many factors, including but not limited to: training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role may also be eligible for a bonus and other benefits.

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