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Excavator Operator Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL

$21 - $27.75/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

Gillmann Services Inc.

Be Seen First

Operator - Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

DOZER OPERATORS AND EXCAVATOR OPERATOR** RESPONSIBILITIES & EXPECTATIONS: · Must comply with company, state and governmental health and safety regulations, policies and procedures at all times. · ...

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with ...

Action

Equipment Operator (CDL)

Decatur, AL

$24 - $29/hr

Equipment Operator (CDL) Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit ... Tank cleaning, Hydro excavation, Vacuum loading, Line flushing, High-pressure water blasting ...

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator (CDL)

Decatur, AL · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Equipment Operator (CDL) Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit ... Tank cleaning, Hydro excavation, Vacuum loading, Line flushing, High-pressure water blasting ...

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North ... Must be experienced with loader, excavator and understand their capabilities and limitations

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North ... Must be experienced with loader, excavator and understand their capabilities and limitations

Smith Industrial Service

CDL Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Operator Department: Municipal Reports to: Municipal Manager/Regional Manager Status: Non-Exempt ... Perform municipal hydro excavating/ sewer cleaning services and vacuum hose operation safely and ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Athens, AL

Excavator Operator information

See Athens, AL salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Athens, AL is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $27.60 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.
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Athens, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,510 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Rock Breaker Operator

Rogers Group

Laceys Spring, AL

$21 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Rogers Group, Inc., headquartered in Nashville, is a privately held aggregates and asphalt highway construction company operating and meeting customer needs in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. RGI, established in 1908, has the distinction of being recognized as the largest privately held aggregate producer in the United States.

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated ability to lead safety, quality, and revenue generation throughout our existing operations and additional operations through growth.

Job Details:

  • Wages based on verifiable experience
  • Full-time/Permanent 
  • 1st Shift (6:00AM-3:00PM) 
  • Weekend work may be required 
  • Overtime available 

Job Responsibilities:

  • Operate an Excavator with Rock Breaker/Hammer
  • Perform daily pre and post inspections with appropriate documentation in compliance with company policies
  • Perform servicing and maintenance of equipment as trained and directed by management
  • Operate equipment with a high degree of competency, skill, and proficiency
  • Properly follow all company policies and OSHA / MSHA / environmental regulations for safe working procedures and environment
  • Other duties as assigned by management

Qualifications:

  • Uncompromising focus on safety excellence.
  • 1+ years of experience operating an excavator preferred.
  • Previous Quarry experience with Rock Breaker/Hammer preferred.
  • Able to do safety and maintenance inspections throughout the day.
  • Capable of demonstrating equipment and troubleshooting knowledge.

  • Use both hands and feet at the same time.

  • Work in an environment with noise levels that may require hearing protection.

  • Must be able to hear and understand commands from supervisors, warnings from fellow workers, and alarms on equipment.

  • Able to crawl and climb on, over, under and inside construction equipment.

  • Lift and carry objects and materials of various weights up to 70 pounds.

  • Good vision, both close-up and long-distance, and ability to look forward, side to side, and toward the rear of equipment.

  • Team player mentality.
  • Working outdoors in varied weather conditions with the probability of dust, noise, heat, and cold.
  • Must pass pre-employment drug testing.

Rogers Group provides extensive benefits, strong compensation, and a safe, drug-free working environment.

As a Rogers Group employee, you will have access to our competitive company perks, including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance plus Health Savings Account with annual company contribution.
  • Company provided Group Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance.
  • Retirement 401(k) with company contribution and match at one year of service.
  • Company provided Short- and Long-Term Disability.
  • Paid Holiday's including Christmas shutdown between Christmas and New Years Day.
  • Paid vacation is available after 180-day probationary period and accrued based on years of service.
  • Annual performance-based merit increases.
  • Career growth/advancement opportunities.

RGI EEO Statement

It is the policy of Rogers Group, Inc. to recruit, hire, and promote individuals based on demonstrated merit and qualifications. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation as protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

All applications are accepted online at www.rogersgroupinc.com.

Rogers Group, Inc., headquartered in Nashville, is a privately held aggregates and asphalt highway construction company operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. Established in 1908, RGI is the largest privately held aggregate producer in the United States.

RGI EEO Statement

It is the policy of Rogers Group, Inc. to recruit, hire, and promote individuals based on demonstrated merit and qualifications. We are committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation as protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

All applications are accepted online at www.rogersgroupinc.com.

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