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Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Kilauea Crushers, Inc.

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Excavator Operator

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Two years experience required. · Steady, reliable hours every week and year round. · Extensive benefit package. · No traveling. Our permanent sites are local and in operation for up to 35 Years ...

Kilauea Crushers, Inc.

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Excavator Operator

Peoria, AZ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Two years experience required. · Steady, reliable hours every week and year round. · Extensive benefit package. · No traveling. Our permanent sites are local and in operation for up to 35 Years ...

Kilauea Crushers, Inc.

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Two years experience required. · Steady, reliable hours every week and year round. · Extensive benefit package. · No traveling. Our permanent sites are local and in operation for up to 35 Years ...

Kilauea Crushers, Inc.

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Two years experience required. · Steady, reliable hours every week and year round. · Extensive benefit package. · No traveling. Our permanent sites are local and in operation for up to 35 Years ...

OM MANUFACTURING LLC

Recruiter

Mayer, AZ · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

This role owns the candidate pipeline from job posting through offer, working directly with the Director of Construction and crew foremen to fill excavator operator, general laborer, and skilled ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Arizona

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
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona? For Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in AZ? For Excavator Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,702 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Traveling Excavator Operator - Mining & Quarry Operations (Arizona)

Rock Pros USA

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description:

Rock Pros USA is seeking an experienced Traveling Excavator Operator to support our decorative landscape rock mining operations throughout Arizona.


This is a dedicated excavator position. Your primary responsibility is operating a hydraulic excavator to recover decorative boulders, rip rap, oversized rock, and blasted material while developing safe, productive quarry faces.


Success in this role requires excellent machine control, sound judgment, and the ability to recover valuable material while maintaining safe mining practices. Every cut, every bucket, and every decision impacts production, material quality, equipment longevity, and the safety of the crew.


We're looking for an operator who takes pride in precision, respects the equipment they operate, and understands that professional operators don't simply move rock—they recover valuable material efficiently while protecting both the machine and the mine.


Primary Responsibilities
  • Operate hydraulic excavators in active surface mining and quarry operations.
  • Recover decorative boulders while minimizing damage to saleable material.
  • Excavate and load blasted rock for processing.
  • Remove overburden to expose mineable material.
  • Recover rip rap and oversized rock for processing or sale.
  • Scale quarry walls and remove loose or unstable material to maintain safe working conditions.
  • Develop and maintain quarry benches, pit floors, and excavation areas.
  • Shape excavation areas to maximize safe and efficient material recovery.
  • Read changing ground conditions and adjust excavation techniques accordingly.
  • Work safely around loaders, haul trucks, crushers, and other heavy equipment.
  • Complete thorough pre-shift and post-shift inspections.
  • Maintain accurate inspection records and immediately report maintenance concerns.
  • Keep assigned equipment clean, organized, and operating at peak performance.
  • Travel to multiple Arizona quarry locations as operational needs require.
What We're Looking For


We're looking for an operator who treats equipment with professionalism and respect.


Our best operators perform complete walk-around inspections before every shift. They recognize unusual sounds, leaks, worn components, and changing machine performance before small issues become costly downtime. They understand that proper lubrication, cleanliness, preventive maintenance, and smooth operation are essential to maximizing equipment life and production.


They take pride in operating safely, protecting valuable decorative rock, producing quality work, and leaving the machine in excellent condition at the end of every shift.


If you believe the condition of your excavator reflects the professionalism of its operator, you'll fit in well at Rock Pros USA.

Requirements:
  • Minimum 5 years of experience operating hydraulic excavators in mining, quarry, aggregate, or heavy civil operations.
  • Demonstrated experience recovering blasted rock, decorative boulders, rip rap, and oversized material.
  • Experience removing overburden and developing quarry benches.
  • Ability to safely scale quarry walls and recognize changing ground conditions.
  • Strong understanding of excavation techniques and production mining practices.
  • Proven commitment to equipment care, preventive maintenance, and daily inspections.
  • Ability to identify and report mechanical concerns before they result in equipment failure.
  • Excellent safety record and commitment to MSHA standards.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Willingness to travel throughout Arizona and work overtime as needed.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication with supervisors and fellow operators.