ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Excavator Operator Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

Ledcor Group

Excavator Operator

Ila, GA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast‑paced telecom construction environment. This is hands‑on work ...

Strack, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Bethlehem, GA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Job Summary Operates excavating and loading equipment using heavy machinery. Effectively completes excavation and related tasks such as backfilling, trenching, grading excavation moving mass rock ...

J&J Earthworks

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Watkinsville, GA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Job Summary We are hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for immediate work on site ... Operate excavators, bulldozers, graders, compactors, and skid steers safely and efficiently * Read ...

J&J Earthworks

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Athens, GA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Job Summary We are hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for immediate work on site ... Operate excavators, bulldozers, graders, compactors, and skid steers safely and efficiently * Read ...

Hire Virtue

Hydrovac Operator

Flowery Branch, GA · On-site

$25/hr

This role involves operating an on-board hydro-vacuum excavation system. More than 80% of work time is spent outside the vehicle performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30/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

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30/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

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30/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

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$30/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 ...

kubota

Equipment Operator

Jefferson, GA

$17.50 - $24/hr

Loads and unloads various carriers of Kubota parts and equipment, which may require operating tractors, excavators, RTV's, etc. * Stacks goods in correct storage bays, following inventory control ...

kubota

Equipment Operator

Jefferson, GA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Loads and unloads various carriers of Kubota parts and equipment, which may require operating tractors, excavators, RTV's, etc. * Stacks goods in correct storage bays, following inventory control ...

Kubota

Equipment Operator

Jefferson, GA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Loads and unloads various carriers of Kubota parts and equipment, which may require operating tractors, excavators, RTV's, etc. * Stacks goods in correct storage bays, following inventory control ...

Curtin Co.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Monroe, GA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Reports To: Foreman Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt, Full-time Position ... Operate Gradall, Excavator, track hoe, forklift, and skid steer. * Inspects and fuels equipment ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Athens, GA

Excavator Operator information

See Athens, GA salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Athens, GA is $25.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $27.64 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 Athens, GA?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Athens, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Athens, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Athens, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Athens, GA are:

What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Athens, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,535 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Ledcor Group

Ila, GA • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview

You know how to run an excavator—and you deliver. We’re looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast‑paced telecom construction environment. This is hands‑on work building critical infrastructure—no shortcuts, no wasted movement. At Ledcor, you’ll be part of a crew that gets the job done right, supporting large‑scale, high‑speed telecommunications projects that have real impact. This is a long‑term career opportunity, with steady work and rotational travel every 4 weeks across Nevada and surrounding states. If you’re reliable, safety‑focused, and take pride in clean, efficient work, you’ll fit right in. Come build something that lasts—with a team that expects the best and backs it up.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Operate excavators for trenching, backfilling, grading, and utility installation in a fast‑paced telecom construction environment.
  • Safely excavate around live underground utilities including power and telecommunications—no shortcuts.
  • Read and execute work using utility locates, site plans, and construction drawings.
  • Support crews with conduit placement and cable installation to keep production moving.
  • Complete daily inspections and basic maintenance checks to keep equipment running reliably.
  • Step in on general construction tasks when needed—team‑first mindset.
  • Communicate clearly with crew and supervisors to stay aligned and hit daily targets.
Qualifications
  • Minimum 5 years of excavator experience in utilities or construction environments.
  • Experience with fiber optic or underground utility installation is a strong asset.
  • Solid ability to read drawings and interpret utility locates.
  • Strong understanding of safe digging practices and job site safety standards.
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
  • Physically capable of lifting up to 70 lbs and working in active construction environments.
Work Conditions
  • Monday to Friday schedule (7:00AM – 3:00PM), with overtime available after 40 hours.
  • Living Out Allowance (LOA) provided.
  • Travel required (rotational work across Nevada and surrounding areas).
  • Full health, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching.
  • Outdoor, hands‑on work in variable conditions—this is a field role, not a cab‑only job.
Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply. Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply