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Excavator Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Excavator Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

As an Excavator Operator, you'll be hands-on in the field-performing precision excavation, trenching, grading, and utility installation. You'll work closely with your crew to keep projects moving ...

ABCI

Excavator Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Excavator Operator ABCI, a local mid-sized heavy civil construction company has an immediate opening for a full-time, experienced Excavator Operator. An Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe ...

Anderson Columbia Co., Inc.

Excavator Operator

Gillett, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Excavator Operators Anderson Columbia Co., Inc. is accepting resumes for experienced Excavator Operators for a project in Gillett, TX. Must possess the ability to adapt to different personalities and ...

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

Excavator Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

As an Excavator Operator, you'll be hands-on in the field-performing precision excavation, trenching, grading, and utility installation. You'll work closely with your crew to keep projects moving ...

CRH

Excavator Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Excavator Operator AMAT Houston, Texas, United States Job ID: 527273 Texas Materials, A CRH company, is a leading supplier of aggregates, asphalt, ready mixed concrete, and paving and construction ...

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator

Leonard, TX · On-site

$24 - $31.75/hr

GARNEY An Excavator Operator position is available at Garney. To be considered for this position, you must have previous construction experience. As an Excavator Operator, you will operate machinery ...

Openwork

Excavator Operator

Galena Park, TX · On-site

$17/hr

Excavator Operator Meador an Openwork Company is currently engaged in a search to find a dedicated excavator operator. Apply today if you meet the qualifications listed below. In an excavator ...

Davis Wetzel Group

Excavator Operator

Odonnell, TX · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Excavator Operator Location : DWG Quarry Job Summary : We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Excavator Operator to join our quarry team. The successful candidate will be responsible for ...

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator

Leonard, TX

$24 - $31.75/hr

GARNEY An Excavator Operator position is available at Garney. To be considered for this position, you must have previous construction experience. As an Excavator Operator, you will operate machinery ...

Davis Wetzel Group

Excavator Operator

Odonnell, TX

$19 - $25/hr

Excavator Operator Location : DWG Quarry Job Summary : We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Excavator Operator to join our quarry team. The successful candidate will be responsible for ...

Southland Holdings

Excavator Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator - Excavator Heavy civil contractor specializing in large diameter open cut and tunneled water, sewer and storm from pipe ranging in size from 8" to 96" as well as dirt work and ...

CRH

Excavator Operator

Houston, TX

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

The Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment to perform excavation, grading, trenching, loading, material handling, and site preparation activities. This position plays a ...

ABCI

Excavator Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

An Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe operation of heavy construction equipment. Requirements: • 5+ years of experience in Heavy Equipment Operation • Safe operation of Excavator ...

Davis Wetzel Group

Excavator Operator

Odonnell, TX · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Excavator Operator Location : DWG Quarry Job Summary : We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Excavator Operator to join our quarry team. The successful candidate will be responsible for ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Texas

Excavator Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Texas is $24.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.63 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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For Excavator Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,689 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Sterling Infrastructure, Inc.

El Paso, TX • On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Are you an expert operator who thrives in the heart of heavy civil construction?
Texas Sterling Construction is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to play a key role on roadway construction, repair, and maintenance projects in the San Antonio area.
As an Excavator Operator, you'll be hands-on in the field-performing precision excavation, trenching, grading, and utility installation. You'll work closely with your crew to keep projects moving safely, efficiently, and on time. If you take pride in your craft, enjoy working on complex projects, and want to be part of a respected team-we want you on our crew!
We build more than infrastructure-we build careers.
Texas Sterling Construction, a division of Sterling Infrastructure, Inc., is a trusted leader in heavy civil construction across the Lone Star State. From major highway systems to critical underground utilities, we deliver excellence through teamwork, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to safety. We believe in empowering our people with opportunities to grow and succeed in their careers.
Apply today and help us build Texas with a company that values your skill, dedication, and craftsmanship.
Position Description
Here are the responsibilities of the Excavator Operator position:
  • Fasten attachments to the tractor with clevis or wedge pin hitches.
  • Connect hydraulic hoses, belts, mechanical linkage, or power takeoff shaft to tractor to provide power to raise, lower, or tilt attachments.
  • Move levers to control tool bars, carriers, and disks.
  • Move hand and foot levers to control the hydraulic shovel.
  • Use the shovel to dig trenches and holes of specified length, depth, and width, remove loosened material and put in piles or transport trucks.
  • Move levers and depress pedals to maneuver equipment and raise, lower, and tilt attachment to clear right-of-way.
  • Feel lever and listen for stalling action of the engine to estimate depth of cut.
  • Drive bulldozer in successive passes over terrain to raise or lower terrain to specified grade following markings on grade stakes or hand signals.
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment, such as lubricating, fueling, and cleaning.

Position Requirements
Qualifications for the Excavator Operator position:
  • Valid driver's license
  • At least two years of experience operating excavators
  • Experience in Heavy Civil projects is highly preferred
  • Possession of OSHA 10 certificate is preferred, but not required.

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer: We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, genetic information, marital status, military status, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or status with regard to public assistance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
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