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Excavator Operator Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Tom's Backhoe & Excavation

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Heavy Machinery Operator I - IV

Kahului, HI · On-site

$27 - $34/hr

Tom's Backhoe and Excavation Heavy Machinery Operator I - IV Location: Kahului, HI We are seeking hardworking, responsible, self-motivated professionals to help us complete our existing projects on ...

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Excavator Operator information

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$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Hawaii is $27.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $29.71 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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For Excavator Operator jobs in Hawaii, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Hawaii 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 $56,527 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Heavy Machinery Operator I - IV

Tom's Backhoe & Excavation

Kahului, HI • On-site

$27 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Tom's Backhoe and Excavation

Heavy Machinery Operator I - IV

Location: Kahului, HI


We are seeking hardworking, responsible, self-motivated professionals to help us complete our existing projects on-time and on budget. We are a small, close-knit, family-run company that has been working on Maui since the 70's. We mostly work in the Central Valley but have projects all over the island, including Hana.


Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 5 years of experience operating heavy machinery
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Hardworking
  • Honest
  • Positive attitude
  • Able to follow directions
  • Able to work well as part of a team to meet project goals
  • Able to lift 75lbs with assistance
  • Reliable with dependable transportation
  • Be drug-free and able to pass random drug tests


Responsibilities:

  • Drive and operate heavy equipment (backhoe, loader, excavator, dozer, skid, roller, etc.)
  • Safely operate equipment to excavate, move, load, and grade earth, rock, gravel, and other materials
  • Perform daily inspection and maintenance to ensure that the machine is in safe, proper working order
  • Coordinate with foremen and project managers to complete the scope of work in the desired order per plans and specifications
  • Assist with all other types of work including laboring, traffic control, and equipment maintenance


Compensation:

  • Hourly rate of $27-$34, depending on experience
  • Medical and dental insurance
  • 401K plan with a 4% match
  • Paid holidays, vacation time, and sick pay
  • Monday through Friday work schedule
  • A positive work environment with a close-knit family-run business
  • Opportunities to work on various jobs on Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kauai.


If you are a hardworking, responsible, and self-motivated professional with experience operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and who shares our core values of Integrity & Quality.