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Excavator Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Flatiron Construction Corp

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will be doing Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC

$30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will be doing Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC

$30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will be doing Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC

$30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will be doing Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other ...

FD.io

Excavator Operator

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other structures Cleans and maintains equipment, making basic repairs as necessary. Moves levers, pushes pedals ...

Fred Smith Company

Heavy Equipment Operators

Raleigh, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GPS Excavator Operator * Offroad Truck Drivers * Roller Operator Essential duties of the role include: * Follow all company safety policies including taking specific action to avoid other workers ...

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 1

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 5

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

Faulconer Construction

Utility Operator

Cary, NC · On-site

Ability to operate excavator on slopes and subgrades to support high production excavation and ... Operate heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures

CARDINAL CIVIL CONTRACTING LLC

Operator - 1

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 5

Raleigh, NC

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Excavator Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Raleigh, NC is $25.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $27.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

How do you get a job as an excavator operator?

To become an excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in operating heavy machinery. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) can also improve job prospects.

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.
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The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

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For Excavator Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,886 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Flatiron Construction Corp

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Overview
Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our New 540 Office.
Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the lobby for you to submit your application. Our office is located at 2832 Auburn Knightdale Road, Raleigh NC, 27610. We look forward to reviewing your application!
Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman.
What you will be doing
Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other structures
  • Cleans and maintains equipment, making basic repairs as necessary.
  • Moves levers, pushes pedals, or turn valves to control equipment. Drives and maneuver equipment.
  • Coordinates machine actions with crew members using hand or audio signals.
  • Maintains knowledge of Company's values and strategic plan.
  • Performs additional assignments per management's direction.

What we are looking for
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Experience with construction equipment preferred.

Why work for us
Some of the benefits you may be eligible for as an employee are:
  • Comprehensive compensation package and paid time off program
  • Industry leading 401(k)/RRSP
  • Medical/Extended Health Care, Dental, Vision and/or Provincial Medical
  • Wellness benefits & Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

We are an EEO/ADA/Veterans employer.
Salary Min
USD $22.00/Hr.
Salary Max
USD $30.00/Hr.

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