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Excavator Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Excavator Operator Central Specialties, Inc. is a third generation, family owned, general road contracting company serving Minnesota and the Dakotas. We take pride in the reputation we have built for ...

Central Specialties

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

We promote from within An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, specifically excavators, to perform various excavation and earthmoving tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

We promote from within An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, specifically excavators, to perform various excavation and earthmoving tasks. This role involves ensuring ...

Bituminous Roadways

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Excavator Operator The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an excavator to achieve proper trench depth, grade, and finished cross-section for construction ...

McGough Construction

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$46.25 - $47.24/hr

The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an excavator to achieve proper trench depth, grade, and finished cross-section for construction activities. This role ...

Knife River Corporation

EXCAVATOR

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

This position is responsible to safely operate excavating equipment to excavate, move and grade earth. The typical schedule is Monday - Friday with one Saturday per month. DUTIES AND/OR ...

Knife River

EXCAVATOR

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

This position is responsible to safely operate excavating equipment to excavate, move and grade earth. The typical schedule is Monday - Friday with one Saturday per month. DUTIES AND/OR ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Excavator Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Minnesota is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $28.03 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
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What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,288 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Central Specialties, Inc.

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

Central Specialties, Inc. is a third generation, family owned, general road contracting company serving Minnesota and the Dakotas. We take pride in the reputation we have built for providing responsive customer service, on the job safety, efficient and high-quality products and services. Our skilled workforce of 425+ employees is dedicated to quality and excellence. It's the pride our employees take in their work that keeps CSI at the top of the industry.

What sets us apart!

  • Family owned and operated
  • Best equipment and technology
  • Building the best roads start to finish

Benefits of joining our team!

  • Traveling throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Iowa
  • Winters off
  • Working outdoors
  • Company paid training opportunities
  • We promote from within

An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, specifically excavators, to perform various excavation and earthmoving tasks. This role involves ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the excavator, inspecting and maintaining equipment, and adhering to project specifications and safety regulations.

Requirements:

  • Must be able to travel throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Iowa
  • Regular, consistent attendance and regular overtime at all assigned job sites.
  • Valid Driver's License, preferably Class A.
  • Acceptable motor vehicle record.
  • Previous heavy equipment operating experience.
  • Strong mechanical skills.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
  • Physical strength and endurance to perform all principal duties and responsibilities

Responsibilities:

  • Maneuver the excavator safely and accurately to avoid damage to property, underground utilities, or other equipment.
  • While operating equipment, maintain clear and effective communication with the site supervisor, team members, and ground personnel using verbal and non-verbal hand signals.
  • Prioritize safety at all times, following company and industry safety guidelines and protocols.
  • Perform routine maintenance on the excavator, such as greasing, checking fluid levels, and cleaning the equipment.
  • Operate excavators to dig trenches, and other excavations following project blueprints and instructions.
  • Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions.
  • Performs other tasks as needed.

Benefits:

  • Group Health Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • 401 (k) Company Match
  • 401(k) Company Discretionary Contribution
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Employee Sick and Safe Time (Part-time and seasonal employees)
  • Per Diem
  • Electronic Direct Deposit

Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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