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Excavator Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

JCS

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Positions include experienced backhoe operators, mini excavator operators, and utility locators supporting fiber installation projects. This role requires weekly travel, with crews departing Monday ...

JCS

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

Positions include experienced backhoe operators, mini excavator operators, and utility locators supporting fiber installation projects. This role requires weekly travel, with crews departing Monday ...

TD&I Cable

Underground Drill Operator

Cold Spring, MN · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

The Drill Operator must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching, shoring, and excavating around live underground utilities. This role works closely ...

C S McCrossan, Inc.

Operator

Saint Michael, MN · On-site

$39.30 - $48.96/hr

Operators will operate various pieces of heavy equipment including but not limited to: cranes ... Duties may include breaking up existing road, moving dirt and terrain and excavating areas ...

C S McCrossan, Inc.

Operator

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$30.84 - $52.81/hr

Operators will operate various pieces of heavy equipment including but not limited to: cranes ... Duties may include breaking up existing road, moving dirt and terrain and excavating areas ...

idcAutomatic

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coon Rapids, MN · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, and material handling activities. * Conduct ... Minimum of 2 years of heavy equipment operating experience. * Valid driver's license. * Ability to ...

IDC Automatic

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coon Rapids, MN · On-site

Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, and material handling activities. * Conduct ... Minimum of 2 years of heavy equipment operating experience. * Valid driver's license. * Ability to ...

Fehn Companies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Albertville, MN · On-site

$45.61/hr

Proven ability to perform excavation, grading, trenching, and material handling tasks efficiently ... Work closely with supervisors, ground crew, and other operators to coordinate activities and ...

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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
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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.

Commercial Operator/Laborer - DeCook Excavating

DeCook Excavating

Byron, MN • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

DeCook Excavating is looking for an operator to join our commercial crew. Typical hours are 7am-5pm. We are headquartered in Byron, MN and do most of our work is in a 50-mile radius.


Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy excavating equipment such as an excavator, dozer, skidloader and dump truck
  • Follow company and OSHA safety procedures, reporting incidents immediately, and identifying & eliminating hazards as much as possible
  • Keep worksites and equipment tidy and clean
  • Read and follow plans/blueprints
  • Follow orders from Foreman and Project Managers
  • Assist on water main breaks as needed, occassional nights and weekends
  • Labor and other duties as assigned


What we are looking for:

  • Experience operating heavy machinery in a commercial environment
  • Valid Driver’s license, CDL is a bonus
  • Reliable individual who reports to work on time and ready to work each day
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Works and communicates well with others and demonstrates positive leadership
  • Must be 18 years of age


Physical Demands:

  • Walking/standing for extended periods of time
  • Climbing in/out of equipment
  • Bending/Stooping
  • Loading equipment on/off trailers
  • Lift/Carry/Push/Pull (80 – 100 lbs)
  • Working in all weather conditions


Benefits:

  • $25-$35 hourly wage, based on experience
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – medical participants are eligible for HSA account with company contribution                      
  • PTO / Paid Holidays
  • 401k Retirement Plan with Company Match
  • Annual boot/clothing coupon after first year
  • Overtime during season (typical work week 50+ hours)
  • Home every night
  • CDL & med card reimbursement program


https://www.decookexcavating.com/