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Excavator Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Back Hoe Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Able to operate the excavator and backhoe on road building and heavy construction projects. * Able to operations for road bed preparation, utilities trenching, excavations, pipeline, land clearing ...

Backhoe, Track-hoe, Skid-Steer, Excavator, Rubber Tire Loader, Front-end Loader and/or tractor with ... operating difficulty. This job works in close proximity to high voltage wires & other lines often ...

Back Hoe Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Able to operate the excavator and backhoe on road building and heavy construction projects. * Able ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Work Environment.

Equipment Operator

Garner, NC · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

... wheel loaders, and excavators, in a safe and proficient manner in accordance with company ... Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating ...

Equipment Operator

Garner, NC · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Experience operating equipment such as front-end loaders, skid steers, track loaders, articulating loaders, rubber tire wheel loaders, and/or excavators, strongly preferred * Knowledge of proper ...

Description We're looking for skilled GPS Dozer Operators to join our team. In this role, you'll ... Operate GPS-controlled dozers to perform precise grading and excavation. * Work with supervisors ...

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

The purpose of an Equipment Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the ... trucks, excavators, and crane trucks. * Candidates holding a valid CDL-A strongly preferred

Construction Foreman

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$61K - $75K/yr

Excavator Operator. * NWSA TTT-1 is preferred. * Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and be insurable under the company's standards - employment contingent upon passing a motor vehicle ...

Pit Loader Operator

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Operating other equipment such as excavators and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed * Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed * Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor You may be ...

Pit Loader Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Operating other equipment such as excavators and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed * Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed * Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor You may be ...

Pit Loader Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Operating other equipment such as excavators and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed * Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed * Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor You may be ...

Pit Loader Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Operating other equipment such as excavators and haul trucks in a safe manner as needed * Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed * Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor You may be ...

Showing results 41-60

Excavator Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of 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:

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.

$41K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Blythe Construction rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

General Description. Responsible for digging trenches and holes. This includes opening and closing the bucket, raising and lowering the boom, and digging, lifting and dumping dirt. Additionally, the backhoe operator must understand how to drive the backhoe both forward and backward and how to use the stabilizers to prevent machine movement while digging.

Key Duties

  • Able to operate the excavator and backhoe on road building and heavy construction projects.
  • Able to operations for road bed preparation, utilities trenching, excavations, pipeline, land clearing and demolition.
  • Able to operate a excavators with variety of attachments.
  • Capable of performing duties such as earthmoving.
  • Able to lift in close proximity to other people, equipment and utilities.
  • Able to work on sites and on all types of terrain.
    • Implementation of production goals.
    • Safe operation of Equipment.
    • OSHA trenching requirements.
    • Knowledge of the Clear Zone.
    • Grade and survey layout.
    • Working and installing trench boxes and steel plates.
    • Proper pre-start, shutdown and daily maintenance including cleaning machine.
    • Loading trucks.
    • Load and unloading of small equipment.
    • Utility locates.
    • Read grade stakes.
    • Cut grade.
    • Excavation for structures and footings.
  • Fine grade slopes and contours suitable for sod.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualification Requirements

  • General. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Key Duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Education and Experience. This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires demonstrable previous experience as a Backhoe Operator. A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred. Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with job site supervisors and fellow employees. Three (3) to Five (5) years or more of industry related experience is required for this position, with an emphasis on roads, highways, and bridges.
  • Physical Demands. The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by a Backhoe Operator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
    • Constant physical effort, including standing and sitting is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day. Employee must be able to stand and sit for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform Key Duties.
    • Frequently walk and climb on uneven surfaces of heavy equipment.
    • Ability to lift, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds and carry at least 30 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
    • Manual dexterity to operate hand tools.
    • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
    • The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.
  • Work Environment. The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that a Backhoe Operator encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
    • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
    • Work environment periodically exposes the employees to high levels of noise, grease, and dust that is typically associated with road construction..
    • Employee regularly works near heavy equipment and moving machinery.
    • Work may involve a variety of substances commonly found on construction sites such as form oil, grease, gasoline, diesel fuel and asphalt concentrate at hot temperatures.

Company Benefits:

  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long Term Disability Policy
  • Company Paid Vacation & Holiday Pay
  • Company Paid Parental Leave
  • Company Paid Maternity Leave
  • Company Paid Employee/Family Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Voluntary Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Dental Insurance
  • Voluntary Short Term Disability
  • Voluntary Supplemental Term Life
  • Voluntary Accident, Legal, Hospital, Critical Illness Policies
  • 401(k) Plan w/Employer Match
  • Annual Company Stock Purchase Opportunities
  • Discount Partnerships: Verizon, Ford, Perkspot
  • Health and Wellness Benefits, including Monthly Gym/Fitness Incentives

We promote a Drug-Free Workplace.

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability are encouraged to apply.

 


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