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Excavator Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Webber Excavator Operator - Heavy Civil

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Used for excavating ditches, structures and mass excavations, laying pipe and precast concrete structures, loading trucks and placing rock riprap. May also be equipped with various hydraulic ...

Webber Excavator Operator - Heavy Civil

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Used for excavating ditches, structures and mass excavations, laying pipe and precast concrete structures, loading trucks and placing rock riprap. May also be equipped with various hydraulic ...

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Excavator Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Georgia is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.13 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 Georgia?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Georgia are:

What cities in Georgia are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,941 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Georgia Dirt Crew GPS Excavator Operator

Vallencourt Construction Co., Inc.

Brunswick, GA • On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Vallencourt Construction rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dirt Crew GPS Excavator Operator- Utilizing GPS technology operator is responsible for excavating ponds and trenches to desired grades. 

Essential Functions of the position:
Must be able to sit or stand for multiple hours
Must be able to work long hours, weekends and as necessary to complete assignments.
Must be able to work in outdoor environments and be exposed to heat, rain, cold, wind, and
other weather activities
Must be able to walk long distances.
Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
Must be able to perform manual labor including but not limited to raking, shoveling,
chopping, hammering etc.
Must be able to wear required PPE as per safety manual and OSHA regulations.

The responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Ensure company equipment is lawfully operated, cared for, maintained and used effectively.
Inspect all company equipment before each startup for brakes, horn, steering, fluids, back-up
alarm as well as other safety and functional items
Operate all heavy equipment as requested including but not limited to: excavators, dozers,
loaders, brooms, trucks, skid steers, rollers etc.
Assist with traffic control as needed
Work in outdoor environments consisting of, but not limited to, cold, heat, dust, smoke, rain
and other extreme conditions as needed to complete work assigned
Assist laborers with manual labor which can include, but is not limited to raking, shoveling,
hooking up pumps, installing pipe, mixing concrete, carrying materials, throwing sod,
seeding, etc.
Ensure equipment is only operated in a safe manner
Wear all PPE as required per safety manual and OSHA regulations.


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