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Excavator Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

James E Fulton & Sons

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Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavation & Utilities)

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$25 - $36/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavation & Utilities) Company Overview James E Fulton & Sons, Inc. is a family-owned excavating and trucking contractor serving Southwest Michigan. For decades, we've ...

Bricco Excavating

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Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Bricco Excavating Co, LLC is seeking to hire a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our excavating team in the Oak Park, MI region. About Bricco Excavating Co, LLC Who is Bricco Excavating Co, LLC.

Bricco Excavating

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Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Bricco Excavating Co, LLC is seeking to hire a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our excavating team in the Oak Park, MI region. About Bricco Excavating Co, LLC Who is Bricco Excavating Co, LLC.

Cherry Valley Excavating LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Wayland, MI · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Cherry Valley Excavating is a residential excavation contractor in business for 30 years. We are seeking Heavy Equipment Operators proficient in operating Excavators, Skidsteers, and Bulldozers. We ...

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Iron River, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility ... Must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching ...

Turner Mining Group

Track Hoe Operator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

The successful candidate will have experience operating excavators in heavy civil, site development, utility, or stream restoration environments and will be comfortable working around waterways ...

Turner Staffing Group

Track Hoe Operator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

The successful candidate will have experience operating excavators in heavy civil, site development, utility, or stream restoration environments and will be comfortable working around waterways ...

Turner Mining Group

Track Hoe Operator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

The successful candidate will have experience operating excavators in heavy civil, site development, utility, or stream restoration environments and will be comfortable working around waterways ...

Turner Mining Group

Track Hoe Operator

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

The successful candidate will have experience operating excavators in heavy civil, site development, utility, or stream restoration environments and will be comfortable working around waterways ...

Clark Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lansing, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Lansing, MI Pay: $25-$35/ HR Operate Modern Equipment on High ... Operate excavators, loaders, dozers, skid steers, and other heavy equipment * Perform excavation ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Michigan

Excavator Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$22

$36

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Michigan is $22.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $24.95 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 Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,421 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Excavation

Thornapple Excavating

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Position:                          Dozer Operator
Location:                         Grand Rapids, MI
FT / PT Status:                Full-Time
Who is Thornapple Excavating?
Over the last 40 years, Thornapple Excavating has expanded to become one of the most well-known names in commercial excavating in West Michigan.  The organization strives to be a leader in earthwork, utility installation, and other commercial excavating services.  With a strong work ethic and attention to detail, customers can count on Thornapple Excavating, Inc. to deliver a high-quality product the first time, every time.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Operate a dozer, excavator, or other heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Ability to operate proficiently and at a “finish grade” level.
  • Read and understand blueprints to understand the site plan.
  • Set up rotary lasers and use for site grading.
  • Communicate with site supervisor or foreman about the site-specific specifications or requirements or general plans.
  • Communicate with laborers, truck drivers, and other employees to help keep the site running safely and efficiently.
  • Perform general maintenance on equipment including inspecting, fueling, greasing, and cleaning tracks daily.
  • Clean and maintain equipment inside and out.
  • Adjust to seasonal weather conditions and work for up to 12 hours per day.
  • Willingness and ability to do what it takes to help get the job done, including operating a different piece of equipment or helping laborers when a situation demands it.
  • Knowledge and understanding of commercial excavating and grades.
  • Consistently show up on time and ready to work.
  • Desire to keep safety in the front of your mind at all times.

Job Qualifications:
  • Applicants should have a minimum of 5 years of experience operating heavy equipment.
  • Must have a firm understanding grades and commercial earthwork.
  • Prior experience with operating with GPS is encouraged, but not required.
  • Ability to perform your work with limited direction / supervision and have the knowledge of how to prepare, install, and maintain the work and equipment.
  • Comfortable working in a high-stress environment.
  • Be willing and able to work with crew members and open to alternative ways of getting things done.
  • Must be safety-minded and have a strong work ethic.

Job Type: Full-time

Experience:

  • 1-5 years excavation (preferred) or construction experience operating heavy equipment

Involves the operation of small equipment and tools, including:

  • Pavement breakers and jackhammers
  • Cement, plaster, and mortar mixers
  • Saws
Benefits Our Employees Enjoy:
  • 401(k) with company match
  • 100% paid company paid Health, Dental and Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Year-end bonuses
  • Company events and outings
  • Referral bonus
Schedule:
  • Day shift with OT opportunity
  • Monday - Friday, no weekends
  • Work Location - 50 mile radius of Grand Rapids, MI
Education:
  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

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