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Excavator Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Forgen

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Forgen

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA

$16.75 - $23/hr

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Forgen

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Forgen

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Quanta Services

Operator

Prairieville, LA

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

... Heavy Equipment Operator. Applicants must be willing to travel on a 10/4 rotation. The ideal ... Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, or other materials, using loaders, excavator, skid steers ...

Forgen

Dozer Operator

Donaldsonville, LA

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Forgen

Dozer Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Forgen

Dozer Operator

Donaldsonville, LA

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Forgen

Dozer Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ... Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience. * Operator 2: 5+ years of ...

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to ... Follow all operating procedures and guidelines. * Any additional task or projects assigned by their ...

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to ... Follow all operating procedures and guidelines. * Any additional task or projects assigned by their ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Excavator Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $25.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $27.45 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 Baton Rouge, LA? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? For Excavator Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,250 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Excavation Operator

Forgen

Donaldsonville, LA

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Location: Donaldsville, LA

Position Summary

Operate and maintain heavy, motorized equipment used in earth moving operations in a safe and efficient manner.

Forgen Overview
Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating across North America. We are 
dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for complex civil, geotechnical, and environmental challenges, guided by 
our core values of integrity, passion, teamwork, and smart work.

Key Responsibilities

  • Participate in a drug-free workplace with a random drug testing program.
  • Responsible for driving a safety culture which promotes Incident and Injury Free Performance.
  • Operate heavy, motorized equipment used in earth moving operations, including, but not limited to, dozers, 
    scrapers, loaders, excavators, compactors, etc. and other equipment to support a variety of operations.
  • Excavation, grading and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment.
  • Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate location for stockpiling 
    or disposal.
  • Use hand-held mobile radio units to coordinate tasks and resources.
  • Read and comply with safety plans, rules, maintenance instructions, training materials, Safety Data Sheets 
    (SDS), warning tags, traffic signs and procedure manuals.
  • Abilities to work in challenging conditions and work independently or as part of a team.
  • Flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends.
  • Perform additional assignments and special projects as directed.

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma/GED or equivalent.
  • The following experience is required:
    • Operator 1: 2+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience.
    • Operator 2: 5+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience.
    • Operator 3: 10+ years of heavy equipment operation/maintenance experience.

Preferred Qualifications
The following safety training is preferred, but not mandatory. Company will provide additional training, as necessary.

  • 40 Hour HAZWOPER training
  • Competent Person Safety Training
  • 8-Hour Supervisory Training
  • 30-Hour OSHA Construction Safety Training
  • First Aid and CPR

Physical Demands & Work Environment
This role requires lifting up to 50 pounds, extended standing or walking on project sites, climbing in and out of 
equipment, and working in confined spaces or at heights. Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible 
exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust, fumes, noise, and extreme weather. Proper PPE, including protective 
eyewear, gloves, a hard hat, and steel-toed boots, is required. Effective communication, tool use, and adherence to 
safety protocols are essential.


This job description outlines the general scope of work and is not exhaustive. Employees may be assigned additional 
duties as needed. Requirements may be adjusted to accommodate disabilities, except where they pose a direct safety 
risk.

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