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Excavator Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

William A. Hazel, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$24 - $40/hr

Hazel, Inc. is now hiring an Excavator Operator who will work our Dirt Crew. This is one of numerous excavator operator jobs we are now hiring for at our office in Northern Virginia. Benefits ...

William A Hazel Inc

Excavator Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$24 - $40/hr

Hazel, Inc. is now hiring an Excavator Operator who will work our Dirt Crew. This is one of numerous excavator operator jobs we are now hiring for at our office in Northern Virginia. Benefits ...

Virginia Paving

Excavator Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Health and Wellness Benefits, including Monthly Gym/Fitness Incentives General Description The Excavator Operator will work in close proximity to equipment and people and operate a excavator to ...

Aerotek

Excavator Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

$24 - $32/hr

Excavator Operator $24-$32/Hour | Full-Time | 50+ Hours Weekly Norfolk, VA Now Hiring: Experienced Excavator Operators We're seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support underground utility and ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Louisa, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Excavator Operator Job Locations US-VA-Louisa ID 2026-14443 # of Openings 1 Category (For search on portal) Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities Allan Myers is looking for a highly skilled and ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Excavator Operator Job Locations US-VA-Chester ID 2026-14701 # of Openings 1 Category (For search on portal) Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities Allan Myers is looking for a highly skilled and ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator- Plant

Suffolk, VA

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

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

S B Cox, Inc.

Excavator Operator - Demo

Henrico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator - DemolitionPosition Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and productive operation of excavators and related heavy equipment on demolition projects. This ...

S&B USA Construction & Fay

Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Excavator Operator Fay is part of Shikun & Binui USA Construction, a family of diversified heavy-civil and industrial construction companies recognized for safe and innovative infrastructure ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

S B Cox, Inc.

Excavator Operator - Demo

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator - DemolitionPosition Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and productive operation of excavators and related heavy equipment on demolition projects. This ...

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator- Plant

Suffolk, VA

$20 - $26.25/hr

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

S B Cox, Inc.

Excavator Operator - Demo

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator - Demolition Position Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and productive operation of excavators and related heavy equipment on demolition projects. This ...

S B Cox Inc

Excavator Operator - Demo

Henrico, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Excavator Operator - Demolition The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and productive operation of excavators and related heavy equipment on demolition projects. This position performs ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Hampton, VA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

S B Cox Inc

Excavator Operator - Demo

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Excavator Operator - Demolition Position Summary The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and productive operation of excavators and related heavy equipment on demolition projects. This ...

Team Fishel

Mini Excavator Operator

Saluda, VA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

The purpose of a Mini Excavator Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Virginia

Excavator Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$25

$41

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Virginia is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Are excavator operators in high demand?

Excavator operators are in high demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and the need for skilled heavy equipment operators. Employment opportunities are often strong in regions with active development and require certifications such as OSHA safety training and equipment operation licenses.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

There is consistent demand for excavator operators in the construction, infrastructure, and mining industries due to ongoing development projects. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after, especially in regions with active construction activity and infrastructure upgrades.

How do I get into operating an excavator?

To become an excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a training program or apprenticeship that covers equipment operation and safety procedures. Many employers require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and certification from a recognized training organization. Gaining hands-on experience and understanding of machinery, safety standards, and environmental considerations are essential steps in entering this field.

What is the top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled operators with specialized training and those working in high-demand areas tend to earn higher wages.

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 Is an Excavator Operator?

As an excavator operator, you control the heavy equipment that moves dirt, sand, and other materials on construction sites. In addition to operating the excavator machine, your job duties are to perform routine maintenance on your excavator and coordinate with your supervisor for major repairs. Since your heavy machinery will move earth, rubble, and debris around the construction sites at your jobs, you need to communicate with the site supervisor and other construction workers to ensure everyone’s safety while you’re operating the excavator.

How much do excavator operators make?

In Michigan, excavator operators typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $62,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

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
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Virginia are:
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What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in VA? For Excavator Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,941 per year, or $25.9 per hour.
Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

William A. Hazel, Inc.

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$24 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

William A. Hazel rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

William A. Hazel, Inc. is now hiring an Excavator Operator who will work our Dirt Crew. This is one of numerous excavator operator jobs we are now hiring for at our office in Northern Virginia.
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

If you'd like to apply to one of our excavator operator jobs, fill out the application linked to in the right-hand column and we will get back to you.
Salary: Hourly $24.00 to $40.00/hour
William A. Hazel, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.
We do not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law.

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