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Excavator Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Martin Marietta Materials

Equipment Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Equipment Operator II is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of multiple types of heavy mobile equipment (including, but not limited to, loaders, excavators, and dozers ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator II

Corona, CA

$30 - $40/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Equipment Operator II is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of multiple types of heavy mobile equipment (including, but not limited to, loaders, excavators, and dozers ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator II

Corona, CA

$30 - $40/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Equipment Operator II is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of multiple types of heavy mobile equipment (including, but not limited to, loaders, excavators, and dozers ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator II

Corona, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Description JOB SUMMARY The Equipment Operator II is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of multiple types of heavy mobile equipment (including, but not limited to, loaders, excavators ...

Boudreau Pipeline

Utility Locating Labor

Corona, CA · On-site

$21.45 - $29/hr

This role requires working outdoors in varying weather conditions, performing physically demanding tasks, operating hand and power tools, and maintaining utility locating and excavation equipment.

KASA Construction Inc.

Operating Engineer

Chino, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

... operator to join our team. We are looking for a skilled Operating Engineer to operate heavy and ... This includes work on highways, bridges, dams, water pipeline, tunnel work, grading, excavation ...

Qcells

Substation Electrician III

Irvine, CA

This position includes operating a variety of heavy equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, bulldozers, and other equipment while adhering to safety standards. The Electrician ...

Qcells

Substation Electrician III

Irvine, CA · On-site

This position includes operating a variety of heavy equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers, bulldozers, and other equipment while adhering to safety standards. The Electrician ...

JF Construction Services

Laborer

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Be able to spot and direct the heavy equipment operators, track hoe and loaders, from the ground during excavation operations. * Operate small equipment, such as a skid steer loader * Cut and thread ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$22.50/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

Pexco

Operator

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The molding Operator will also be responsible for troubleshooting minor machine issues, performing in-process inspections, and maintaining accurate production records. Key Responsibilities: * Machine ...

Boudreau Pipeline

BUL Laborer

Corona, CA · On-site

The BUL Laborer supports daily field activities including excavation, trench preparation, jobsite ... · Signals operators of construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and materials ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Excavator Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Riverside, CA is $27.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.55 and $29.86 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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Excavator Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,762 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Landfill

Athens Services

Redlands, CA

$31.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Athens Services rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator - Landfill processes trash by compacting and pushing the waste with a dozer, at the landfills. Places soil cover over the trash with other heavy equipment, including loaders, excavators and rock trucks. Other equipment which may be operated are water trucks, roll off trucks and backhoes.

Job Description

  • Ensure the tipping table is clean and orderly to accept each day's trash.
  • Keep tipping table trash safely arranged to allow loader to remove recyclables.
  • Inspect assigned equipment and prepare pre-trips and post-trips as required.
  • Keep hazardous and otherwise prohibited wastes out of the transfer station and landfills.
  • Keep tipping table clear of trash for customers to unload safely.
  • Be aware of emergency contacts and procedures.
  • Perform any other duties assigned by Landfill supervisor.
  • Reports any unsafe situations to direct supervisor.
  • Ability to work overtime as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma and/or GED.
  • 1 year of operating 950 CAT, 938 CAT, Hauling Truck.
  • Must be able to read and understand safety rules, operating manuals, and maintenance instructions pertaining to assigned vehicles.
  • Good communication skills.
  • Ability to perform physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bilingual - English/Spanish.
  • Basic first aid and CPR training.

Physical/Environmental Demands:

  • Physical:
    • Standing, walking, sitting, seeing, hearing, & smelling continuously.
    • Problem solving, oral/written communication, analytical ability, concentration, & interpersonal abilities continuously.
    • Eye/hand coordination, handling, & wrist motion continuously.
  • Environmental:
    • Exposure to dust, smoke, fumes, odors, grease, oil, chemicals, wet/hot conditions, & noise continuously.
    • Works outside only.

Salary: $31.25 (Includes Prevailing Wage which is the combination of the basic hourly wage and the value of fringe benefits)

Schedule: Monday - Friday 10 am - 7 pm

Benefits:
  • Competitive wages
  • Comprehensive benefit package Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K
  • Life Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • Career plan
  • Recognition programs
  • Professional development learning
  • An exceptional work environment

Athens will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance and any other applicable state, federal or local laws. EEO/M/F/disability/veteran

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