ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Excavator Operator Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

PKS Paving

Equipment Operator

Lithia Springs, GA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Perform grading, trenching, excavation, backfilling, and material movement tasks * Load and unload materials using loaders, skid steers, or forklifts as needed * Read and interpret site plans, grade ...

Ranger Environmental

Combo Unit/Jetter Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience in operating combo units for sewer cleaning, hydro excavation, and other related services. Responsibilities : - Operate combo units to perform sewer cleaning ...

Bonn-J Contracting Inc. of FL

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in operating heavy machinery safely and ... Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, loaders, graders, or forklifts ...

J & N Contracting, Inc

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Acworth, GA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator 5+ yrs experience with loaders, excavators, dozers, compactors & off‐road tractors. Reliable transportation, clean driving record. CDL preferred. OT & holiday pay. Company ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Decatur, GA

Excavator Operator information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Decatur, GA is $25.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $27.93 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.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

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

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 highest salary for an Excavator Operator?

The highest salaries for excavator operators can exceed $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as construction or mining. Factors like certifications, location, and the complexity of projects can influence earning potential.

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.

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's the going rate for an Excavator Operator?

The average hourly rate for an excavator operator ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery typically earn higher wages, and rates may vary based on union membership or contractor requirements.
More about Excavator Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Decatur, GA? For Excavator Operator jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Decatur, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,120 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Vacuum Excavation Jet Vac Operator

Azuria Water Solutions

Tucker, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate jet vac and hydro excavation trucks using high-pressure water and vacuum systems for cleaning and excavations.

  • Maintain and clean equipment, including vacuuming pipes and boxes and performing minor repairs.

  • Document all services performed on the job.

Job description

Description
As a leader in the industry, Insituform Technologies LLC, an Azuria Water Solutions company, is a global company that has been providing pipeline protection services for more than 50 years. Insituform values employee development and empowerment and are looking for innovative individuals to join their team and contribute to maintaining critical infrastructure worldwide.
We are currently seeking Vacuum Excavation Jet Vac Truck Operators with Jet Vac operating experience and a valid Class A or B CDL license to join our team in Tucker, GA! As a Vacuum Excavation Jet Vac Operator, you will be responsible for the operation, care, and maintenance of all types of jet vac and hydro excavation trucks and services and will work around underground storm drains and sewers. We provide an extensive training program allowing operators the opportunity for success.
We are currently offering a limited-time sign-on bonus of $4,000 for new hires with a valid CDL license, and sign-on bonuses for new hires without a current CDL license are also available at a reduced amount. New employees who meet the criteria outlined in our sign-on bonus program will be eligible for the full payout.
The starting pay is dependent upon experience.
Why You'll Love Working For Us:
  • Competitive salary
  • Daily per diem while traveling
  • 100% covered individual hotel room stays while traveling
  • Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • 401k matching
  • Tuition assistance
  • Paid time off and overtime pay
  • Company paid PPE, boots, and safety gear
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Work for a forward-thinking and innovative company
  • Ecological footprint - We are rehabbing the world's infrastructure, one pipe at a time, with minimal disruption to people's daily routines, with little waste

What You'll Do:
  • Operate Jet vac and hydro excavation trucks, such as the Vactor 2100 series truck, through the course of a job using high-pressure water and vacuum systems for cleaning and excavations
  • Work includes but is not limited to hydro excavating to potholes, trenching and locating utilities, and also jet flush city sewers, storm sewers, and farm lines along with vacuuming of car wash pits and farm pits
  • Maintain equipment and keep it clean inside and out, including Vacuuming pipes and boxes, and for CCTV crews
  • Open and close storm grates and sewer manholes
  • Effectively read maps/prints
  • Ability to work alone or as part of a team
  • Document all services performed on the job
  • Mechanically inclined - conduct minor repairs to equipment

What We Need From You:
  • Must possess a Class A or B CDL with Tanker endorsement, and be aligned with Insituform's motor vehicle standards
  • 6+ months of experience operating heavy equipment and Jet vac equipment is highly preferred
  • Experience working with underground utility construction is preferred
  • Valid driver's license required with clean motor vehicle report
  • Comfortable working outside at job sites with moving vehicles and mechanical operations, with occasional exposure to fumes or airborne particles
  • Ability to lift/move up to 75 pounds and use pneumatic, battery-powered, or electric tools
  • Comfortable entering manholes and working in confined spaces
  • Ability to travel as needed

Azuria Water Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Azuria Water Solutions is firmly bound. Azuria Water Solutions will not engage in discrimination against, or harassment of, any person employed or seeking employment with Azuria Water Solutions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, non-disqualifying disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
VEVRAA compliant - priority referral Protected Veterans requested.

Apply