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Excavator Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Rec Construction

Heavy Machine Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Operating and maintaining mini-excavators and front-end loaders * Experience in running excavators, loaders etc. * Excavating job sites * Knowledge of material yardage Job Requirements * MA 2A ...

Rec Construction

Heavy Machine Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Operating and maintaining mini-excavators and front-end loaders * Experience in running excavators, loaders etc. * Excavating job sites * Knowledge of material yardage Job Requirements * MA 2A ...

Rec Construction

Heavy Machine Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Operating and maintaining mini-excavators and front-end loaders * Experience in running excavators, loaders etc. * Excavating job sites * Knowledge of material yardage Job Requirements * MA 2A ...

South Kingstown, Town of (RI)

$54K - $58K/yr

Bulldozer or track loader to level, spread and excavate materials Mechanical street sweeper Road ... operating methods of a variety of heavy on and off-road equipment used in excavating, loading ...

Waste Connections Inc

Equipment Operator

Carolina, RI

$19 - $26/hr

In this position you will be operating equipment such as skid steers , bulldozers, wheel loaders, compactors, excavators, and off-road trucks . This is a day shift position with weekly overtime. This ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Equipment Operator

Carolina, RI

$19 - $26/hr

In this position you will be operating equipment such as skid steers , bulldozers, wheel loaders, compactors, excavators, and off-road trucks . This is a day shift position with weekly overtime. This ...

SiteOne Landscape Supply

Equipment Operator

Middletown, RI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

... wheel loaders, and excavators, in a safe and proficient manner in accordance with company ... Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

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 ...

Badger Daylighting

Assistant Operator

Johnston, RI

$38.15/hr

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in the assistance of operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as an Assistant Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high ...

Badger Daylighting

Assistant Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$38.15/hr

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in the assistance of operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as an Assistant Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$17.75 - $24/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 ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI

$17.75 - $24/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 ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Rhode Island

Excavator Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Rhode Island 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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:

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For Excavator Operator jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in RI?

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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,282 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Heavy Machine Operator

Rec Construction

Johnston, RI • On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour
Job description:

Qualifications:
  • Heavy Equipment Operations 3 year min. (preferred)
  • Work Authorization (preferred)
Job Description – the Equipment Operator is responsible for day-to-day operations and maintenance of company equipment. The construction operations of R.E.C. Construction as well as, ongoing commitment to deliver outstanding service, sustainable sales growth and financial profitability. Prior experience with reading and interpreting plans and blue prints is a PLUS and will increase starting hourly wage.
Specifically, you would be responsible for performing the following tasks to the highest standards:
  • Operating and maintaining mini-excavators and front-end loaders
  • Experience in running excavators, loaders etc.
  • Excavating job sites
  • Knowledge of material yardage
Job Requirements
  • MA 2A Hoisting and Hydraulics license (Preferred, not required)
  • RI hoisting and hydraulics license required
  • 3+ years operating heavy equipment preferred
  • Must be available to work any shift
  • Good verbal and written communication
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
Experience:
  • Heavy equipment operation: 3 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
  • Do you have an active Hoisting License (Required)