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Excavator Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Central Specialties

Scraper Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

These machines are used to excavate, load, and transport earth, rock, and other materials on construction sites. The Scraper Operator plays a crucial role in earthmoving and site preparation projects ...

Central Specialties, Inc.

Dozer Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$27 - $46/hr

We promote from within As a Dozer Operator, you will play a crucial role in our construction and excavation projects. Your primary responsibility will be to operate heavy machinery, specifically ...

Central Specialties, Inc.

Scraper Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$27 - $46/hr

These machines are used to excavate, load, and transport earth, rock, and other materials on construction sites. The Scraper Operator plays a crucial role in earthmoving and site preparation projects ...

Central Specialties

Dozer Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

We promote from within As a Dozer Operator, you will play a crucial role in our construction and excavation projects. Your primary responsibility will be to operate heavy machinery, specifically ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

White Bear Lake, MN · On-site

$47/hr

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to ...

EMR Metal Recycling

Equipment Operator

Becker, MN · On-site

$24/hr

You'll operate bobcats and mini excavators, identify and sort metals, and process material. You'll ... Previous experience operating equipment * Ability to work independently and as a team * Ability to ...

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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 Sep 6, 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.

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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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Minnesota 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 $53,288 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Traveling Backhoe Operator- Utility Construction

Push Inc

Canton, MN • On-site

$21 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment such as backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe to install underground utilities and excavate around existing utilities.

  • Perform routine maintenance on construction equipment and assist with basic labor duties including conduit/duct/cable placement and setting pedestals.

  • Provide training and assistance to co-workers learning to operate equipment and perform digging operations around utilities.

Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating assigned equipment used to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water facilities. This position will assist with all aspects of the job requiring operation of both smaller and larger scale heavy equipment along with possible or occasional basic labor duties. Must have field experience digging with heavy equipment preferably around utilities in rural and urban areas, experience reading prints and schematics and the ability to train and mentor other team members.

PUSH, Inc. is a privately owned premier communications and power utility contractor headquartered in Rice Lake, WI. who has been providing telecom infrastructure to connect people globally for 50 years through its dedicated team members who have integrity and continually strive for excellence.

Physical and Environmental Factors:

  • Ability to work outdoors and to work in all types of outdoor weather.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry, and lift as needed.
  • Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet, and limbs in performing skilled movement.
  • Ability to travel and be away from home for extended periods of time.
  • 100% Field.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

  • Field experience with digging operations in rural and urban areas around utilities.
  • Responsible for daily maintenance on construction equipment used.
  • Ability to operate equipment, including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Successfully excavate around existing utilities.
  • Provide training and assistance to co-workers learning to be operators.
  • Perform routine labor (potholing, set-up of equipment, conduit/duct/cable placement, set pedestals) as required.
  • Drive tow vehicle hauling equipment to and around job site.
  • Assist with all aspects of the job including basic labor responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Work Experience: This person should have demonstrated field experience with digging operations around utilities in rural and urban areas. Must have experience operating utility construction equipment including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Industry Knowledge: General knowledge of utility construction procedures, including print reading. In addition, have knowledge of or be familiar with all procedures and associated tools and equipment necessary to install underground utilities in the most effective, safe, and profitable manner.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver’s License, Class A CDL preferred.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screenings.
  • Demonstrated field experience operating backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe around utilities. 
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Ability to maintain equipment and hand tools.
  • Ability to read, comprehend and carry out instructions.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Abide all company and manufacturer safety procedures and industry safety standards, in addition to attending mandatory safety meetings.

Benefits of Joining the PUSH Team:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability – Industry Leading! 
  • Free Teladoc, No-Cost Care Options
  • 401K with Company Match up to 3%
  • Competitive pay, weekly checks
  • Paid PTO and Holidays
  • Bonus Potential
  • Training & Advancement Opportunities
  • Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • In-house CDL Program
  • Unlimited Referral Bonus Program
  • And Much More! 

Push, Inc is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEOC/M/F/D/V)