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Excavator Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Heimes Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

Excavating, Underground Utilities, Recycled Concrete, Plumbing, Directional Drilling, Fiber ... Some type of operating experience is preferred. Heavy/farm tractor experience is a benefit. Having ...

Heimes Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

Excavating, Underground Utilities, Recycled Concrete, Plumbing, Directional Drilling, Fiber ... Some type of operating experience is preferred. Heavy/farm tractor experience is a benefit. Having ...

Heimes Corp

Vac Truck Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Vac Truck Operators are needed. Heimes Corporation/Environmental Solutions Inc. is seeking ... Excavating, Underground Utilities, Recycled Concrete, Plumbing, Directional Drilling, Underground ...

Heimes Corp

Vac Truck Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Vac Truck Operators are needed. Heimes Corporation/Environmental Solutions Inc. is seeking ... Excavating, Underground Utilities, Recycled Concrete, Plumbing, Directional Drilling, Underground ...

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR - $28-$32/hr - Weekly Pay! Description: If you're looking for long term ... Operate various heavy equipment for site preparation, grading, excavation, trenching, and material ...

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR - $28-$32/hr Description: If you're looking for long term consistent work ... Operate various heavy equipment for site preparation, grading, excavation, trenching, and material ...

Vrana Civil, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

We are currently looking for a heavy equipment operator that has past experience in loaders, excavators, backhoes, tractors and blades. The ideal candidate needs to have good communication skills ...

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Excavator Operator information

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$13

$24

$39

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Nebraska is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $27.26 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 Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,875 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment/Excavation Equipment Operator at Clearwater, NE

Clearwater, NE • On-site

Boyd's Electrical Service, Inc.
See more jobs at Boyd's Electrical Service, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description


Boyd#39;s Electrical Service is seeking a heavy equipment operator to work in our earth moving division.


The ideal candidate would be somebody with experience proficiently and accurately operating earth moving equipment such as excavators, loaders, and similar equipment. The ideal candidate would also have a good understanding of the mechanical aspects of the equipment and be able to do daily maintenance and repair tasks as needed on the equipment to keep it in good working order.


The ideal candidate must be able to read civil prints as needed to establish the required grade elevations. It is necessary to be able to understand, follow and share written or spoken instructions. The candidate must also be able to give and understand hand signals.
Applicants must hold a current drivers license, a Class A CDL would be a plus.
This is a Full Time position and will be eligible for company benefits, such as health insurance, retirement IRA account with company match, paid holidays, paid vacation/sick leave, company tools, and paid continuing education expenses if applicable. Applicants who are offered employment will be required to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test as well as a pre-employment physical exam.
Requirements and Responsibilities:
-Maintain a safe work environment, for yourself and those working with you
-Hold a valid Drivers License, ideally a Class A CDL
-Have ownership and a sense of pride in your work
-Operate hand and power tools as needed.
-Operate excavating equipment such as excavators, loaders, and similar equipment.
-Lift up to and in excess of 75 pounds
-Ability to climb ladders or stairs
-Work indoors, and outdoors in varying weather conditions
-Ability to work extended hours as needed
-Travel to jobsites in the Nebraska area as needed
-Effectively and professionally communicate with company management, customers and their employees, and other company employees

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