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Excavator Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Mr. Rooter

Equipment Operator Lining Technician

Newark, DE · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Equipment Operator for an excavation team, you'll be doing something that matters! At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, you don't need prior experience or licenses to join our team. (But if you have some ...

Allan Myers

Pipe Hoe Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

... e.g. paving, excavating, laying pipe, moving and grading dirt, etc.). Responsible for safe ... Equipment repair / maintenance procedures and Operator Safety Standards * Safety, Safety, Safety ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Pipe Hoe Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

Minimum of 2 years of equipment operating experience required. * Valid driver's license required ... e.g. paving, excavating, laying pipe, moving and grading dirt, etc.). Responsible for safe ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Pipe Hoe Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

Minimum of 2 years of equipment operating experience required. * Valid driver's license required ... e.g. paving, excavating, laying pipe, moving and grading dirt, etc.). Responsible for safe ...

Allan Myers

Pipe Hoe Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

... e.g. paving, excavating, laying pipe, moving and grading dirt, etc.). Responsible for safe ... Equipment repair / maintenance procedures and Operator Safety Standards * Safety, Safety, Safety ...

State of Delaware

Equipment Operator IV

Magnolia, DE · On-site

$46K/yr

... and clear and excavate. * Loads and unloads rock, debris, earth, trees and materials, such as ... Six months experience in operating self-propelled mobile equipment with wheeled or crawler type ...

New

State of Delaware

Equipment Operator IV

Laurel, DE · On-site

$46K/yr

... and clear and excavate. * Loads and unloads rock, debris, earth, trees and materials, such as ... Six months experience in operating self-propelled mobile equipment with wheeled or crawler type ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Delaware

Excavator Operator information

See Delaware salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Delaware is $26.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.65 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 Delaware?

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

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

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

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

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Cities in Delaware with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Delaware 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 $54,455 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bearing Construction, Inc.

Seaford, DE

$21.63 - $28.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

At Bearing Construction, we offer a dynamic environment where you can grow professionally while building strong, lasting relationships. Our culture thrives on collaboration, backed by a foundation of stability, loyalty, and innovation.

We are committed to enhancing the environmental quality of every community we serve and have become the trusted contractor of choice for many of our best clients.

With exciting opportunities on the horizon, both for our company and each team member, there’s never been a better time to join us. Become part of a high-performing team delivering exceptional construction management and engineering services.

Pay Range
The pay range for this role is $21.63-$28.85 per hour. Compensation is based on your unique qualifications and experience.

Benefits

Enjoy a comprehensive total rewards package beyond a competitive base salary to include merit increases, annual bonus potential, and an extensive benefits plan for you and your family that includes health, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, paid holidays, a retirement 401k plan, life insurance, short-term disability, and other supplemental options.

As an employee of Bearing Construction, Inc., you will also receive perks like a semiannual clothing allowance to spend in our company webstore and have access to our employee perk programs like Working Advantage, which offers exclusive deals and offers on various products, services, and experiences.

Job Summary

A heavy equipment operator prepares and manipulates heavy equipment to ensure the appropriate movement of materials and liaises with coworkers to ensure that the project is completed accurately and safely.

Responsibilities and Duties

  • Operate construction equipment in a safe and effective manner.
  • Ensure equipment is maintained and in good working condition by performing routine inspections.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions or maintenance needs to the supervisor promptly.
  • Follow and enforce safety procedures and guidelines at all times.
  • Loading and unloading of materials and equipment
  • Excavating, grading and backfilling for site, structural, and piping scope requirements.
  • Comply with project plans and industry standards.
  • Responsible for proper handling and maneuvering of heavy equipment and materials.
  • Other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities

  • Exceptional manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
  • A sound understanding of pertinent safety guidelines.
  • Capacity to provide and follow directions.
  • Sharp decision-making skills, particularly when under pressure.
  • Ability to properly install and utilize underground shoring equipment.
  • Strong Mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents
  • Ability to safely and efficiently operate heavy equipment
  • Ability to understand and follow design grades

Experience and Education

  • Valid driver’s license
  • Experience operating the following equipment: Bull dozers, excavators, backhoes, wheel loaders, skid steers, rollers etc.

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to work in an active outdoor construction site environment.
  • Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, stairs, and work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment.
  • Must be able to traverse irregular and steep terrain.
  • Must be able to work in various weather conditions and be exposed to dirt or dust.
  • Must be able to wear the required personal protective equipment while at work.
  • Must be able to lift and carry 25lbs regularly and 50lbs occasionally.
  • Must be able to work for long periods of time while standing or sitting

Apply