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Excavator Operator Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Pahrump, NV · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Excavator Operator You know how to run an excavator--and you deliver. We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast ...

Excavator Operator

Spring Creek, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Elko, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Lovelock, NV · On-site

$22.50 - $29.50/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Elko, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Pahrump, NV · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Pahrump, NV

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Eureka, NV · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Pahrump, NV · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Reno, NV

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Carlin, NV

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

Excavator Operator

Spring Creek, NV

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building ...

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Showing results 1-20

Excavator Operator information

See Nevada salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Nevada is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $29.13 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Nevada? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Nevada are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Nevada look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Nevada are:
What cities in Nevada are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Nevada with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in NV? For Excavator Operator jobs in NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Nevada as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,404 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Ledcor

Pahrump, NV • On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Ledcor rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Excavator Operator

You know how to run an excavator—and you deliver. We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building critical infrastructure—no shortcuts, no wasted movement. At Ledcor, you'll be part of a crew that gets the job done right, supporting large-scale, high-speed telecommunications projects that have real impact. This is a long-term career opportunity, with steady work and rotational travel every 4 weeks across Nevada and surrounding states. If you're reliable, safety-focused, and take pride in clean, efficient work, you'll fit right in. Come build something that lasts—with a team that expects the best and backs it up.

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Operate excavators for trenching, backfilling, grading, and utility installation in a fast-paced telecom construction environment
  • Safely excavate around live underground utilities including power and telecommunications—no shortcuts
  • Read and execute work using utility locates, site plans, and construction drawings
  • Support crews with conduit placement and cable installation to keep production moving
  • Complete daily inspections and basic maintenance checks to keep equipment running reliably
  • Step in on general construction tasks when needed—team-first mindset
  • Communicate clearly with crew and supervisors to stay aligned and hit daily targets
Qualifications:
  • Minimum 5 years of excavator experience in utilities or construction environments
  • Experience with fiber optic or underground utility installation is a strong asset
  • Solid ability to read drawings and interpret utility locates
  • Strong understanding of safe digging practices and job site safety standards
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Physically capable of lifting up to 70 lbs and working in active construction environments
Work Conditions:
  • Monday to Friday schedule (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM), with overtime available after 40 hours
  • Living Out Allowance (LOA) provided
  • Travel required (rotational work across Nevada and surrounding areas)
  • Full health, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching
  • Outdoor, hands-on work in variable conditions—this is a field role, not a cab-only job

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