ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Excavator Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Allan Myers, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in mainline pipe installation or mass excavation preferred. * Ability to work with GPS machine control ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Newport News, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction. * Experience in mainline pipe installation or mass excavation preferred. * Ability to work with GPS machine control ...

S&B USA

Excavator Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

We're looking to add an Excavator Operator to our team, please read below for the details of the position. Applicants should have experience with excavation, trenching, pipe setting and loading ...

Kokosing

Excavator Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking Excavator Operators in the Richmond, VA area to work on utility/grade projects. SUMMARY Operates power driven excavator, equipped with movable shovel, to excavate or move dirt, rock ...

S&B USA

Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking to add an Excavator Operator to our team, please read below for the details of the position. Applicants should have experience with excavation, trenching, pipe setting and loading ...

Baker Construction Enterprises

Excavator Operator

VA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Summary Under the supervision of a foreman/lead, the Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as forklifts, backhoes, excavators, dozers, skid steer loaders, track loaders ...

Shirley Contracting Company LLC

Excavator Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Shirley Contracting Company, LLC is looking for Excavator Operators to join our dirt and utility crews. Qualifications: * Experience running heavy equipment (an onsite try-out will be conducted)

S&B USA

Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$21.75 - $29/hr

We're looking to add an Excavator Operator to our team, please read below for the details of the position. Applicants should have experience with excavation, trenching, pipe setting and loading ...

S&B USA

Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$21.75 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking to add an Excavator Operator to our team, please read below for the details of the position. Applicants should have experience with excavation, trenching, pipe setting and loading ...

S&B

Excavator Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking to add an Excavator Operator to our team, please read below for the details of the position. Applicants should have experience with excavation, trenching, pipe setting and loading ...

Clark

Excavator Operator

New Kent, VA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Shirley Contracting Company, LLC is looking for Excavator Operators to join our dirt and utility crews. Qualifications: * Experience running heavy equipment (an onsite try-out will be conducted)

Clark

Excavator Operator

Chesterfield, VA

$22 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Shirley Contracting Company, LLC is looking for Excavator Operators to join our dirt and utility crews. Qualifications: * Experience running heavy equipment (an onsite try-out will be conducted)

Clark

Excavator Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Shirley Contracting Company, LLC is looking for Excavator Operators to join our dirt and utility crews. Qualifications: * Experience running heavy equipment (an onsite try-out will be conducted)

Garney Construction

Excavator Operator- Plant

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$20 - $26.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Excavator Operator , you will operate machinery to perform activities such as excavating, backfilling, trenching, ditching, clearing, looming, fine grading, and final clean up. The operator may ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 17, 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 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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 August 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

Allan Myers, Inc.

Newport News, VA • On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Allan Myers rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Operate hydraulic excavators (e.g., Cat 330, 336, 349, or similar) to perform precise digging, trenching, and grading.
  • Excavate for utility installation, including water, sewer, and storm drainage systems (Mainline Pipe Crew).
  • Perform bulk earthmoving, slope work, and grading in large-scale excavation projects (Mass Excavation Crew).
  • Read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, and laser levels.
  • Ensure safe and efficient operation of equipment, following company and OSHA safety standards.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections, routine maintenance, and report mechanical issues.
  • Work collaboratively with crew members, site supervisors, and project managers.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience operating excavators in heavy civil construction.
  • Experience in mainline pipe installation or mass excavation preferred.
  • Ability to work with GPS machine control systems is a plus.
  • Strong knowledge of excavation techniques, trenching safety, and soil conditions.
  • Must be able to work in a physically demanding environment and in various weather conditions.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL is a plus.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check.

Overview
Our Company Does Work That Matters
Allan Myers is the largest heavy civil construction and materials production contractor in the mid-Atlantic. We build infrastructure: the highways and bridges that connect cities and towns, the public water and wastewater systems that provide clean water to your home and keep our streams clean. We take pride in meeting the highest quality standards because it ensures our work will have a long-lasting positive impact on the community. When you get home safe each night, you know that what you did that day matters.
At Allan Myers, you are part of a team dedicated to making things better, including your career. We pay well and provide generous benefits. We offer extensive training and promote from within. If you have the drive, we will help you build a career in the thriving construction industry and reach your full potential.
Allan Myers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Notice to External, Third Party, Agency Recruiting Firms:
Allan Myers maintains a preferred vendor list and does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies not under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization from our Talent Acquisition team will be deemed the property of Allan Myers. We reserve the right to engage with such candidates (contact, interview and hire) without financial obligation. No other employee is authorized to approve resume submissions or bind Allan Myers to any fee arrangement.

What Allan Myers employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply