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Excavator Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

BBSI Portland

Excavator Operator

North Plains, OR · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Excavation Equipment Operator Location: Portland, OR Pay Rate: $30-35/hr Type: Temp To Hire About Us: Our client is a leading excavation and earthmoving company specializing in custom home site prep ...

New

Glass Roots Construction

Excavator Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Excavator Operator Glass Roots Construction (GRC) is a first-class fiber optic utility construction firm founded by career telecom and construction professionals. We leverage the latest technologies ...

TAPANI Inc

Mainline Excavator Operator

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$29.03 - $46.35/hr

Tapani Careers Job Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating the heavy equipment to ensure the day to day activities of the onsite project move forward in accordance with ...

TAPANI, Inc.

Mainline Excavator Operator

Battle Ground, WA · On-site

$29.04 - $46.35/hr

Tapani Careers Job Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating the heavy equipment to ensure the day to day activities of the onsite project move forward in accordance with ...

TAPANI Inc

Mainline Excavator Operator

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$29.03 - $46.35/hr

Tapani Careers Job Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating the heavy equipment to ensure the day to day activities of the onsite project move forward in accordance with ...

TAPANI, Inc.

Mainline Excavator Operator

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$29.04 - $46.35/hr

Tapani Careers Job Summary The Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating the heavy equipment to ensure the day to day activities of the onsite project move forward in accordance with ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, and excavators on construction sites ... Summary As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be essential in ensuring the efficient operation of ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Operate heavy equipment such as dozers, loaders, backhoes, and excavators on construction sites ... Summary As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be essential in ensuring the efficient operation of ...

Rotschy Inc.

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$28 - $44/hr

Looking for experience operating ... Excavators, Dozers, Graders, Scrapers, Haul Trucks, Loaders Etc... 100% Paid Medical, Dental and ...

Mr. Rooter

Excavation Crew Member and Labor

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

... operating a mini-excavator and all other equipment, hold a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and medical card and will move up in pay. * Ambitious team player. The only way to succeed in this ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Excavator Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Portland, OR is $27.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $29.76 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

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The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

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

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Cities near Portland, OR with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,611 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator

BBSI Portland

North Plains, OR • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Job Title: Excavation Equipment Operator

Location: Portland, OR

Pay Rate: $30-35/hr

Type: Temp To Hire


About Us: Our client is a leading excavation and earthmoving company specializing in custom home site prep, commercial, and infrastructure projects. They are committed to delivering high-quality results with safety and efficiency at the forefront of everything they do. They are currently seeking a skilled Excavation Equipment Operator with experience in operating track machines to join their team.


Job Summary: The Excavation Equipment Operator will be responsible for operating track excavators and other heavy machinery to perform excavation and earthmoving tasks. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in excavation work, be familiar with various types of track machinery, and demonstrate a commitment to safety and precision.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Operate track excavators and other heavy equipment to perform digging, grading, and earthmoving tasks in various environments, including residential, commercial, and industrial sites.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance on equipment to ensure it is in good working condition.
  • Collaborate with project managers, supervisors, and other team members to ensure work is completed on schedule and to project specifications.
  • Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and following site safety plans.
  • Ensure accurate and efficient completion of excavation tasks while minimizing damage to surrounding areas and existing structures.
  • Assist with other tasks on the job site as needed, including site preparation, material handling, and cleanup.


Qualifications:

  • Proven experience operating track excavators and other heavy machinery in excavation and earthmoving projects.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation., must have clean driving record.
  • Strong understanding of excavation techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents, including blueprints and project plans.
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certification or formal training in heavy equipment operation is a plus.
  • Additional experience with other types of excavation machinery (e.g., backhoes, bulldozers).
  • Knowledge of environmental regulations and best practices for excavation work.


Join our team and contribute to the success of exciting excavation projects while advancing your career in a dynamic and supportive environment!