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Excavator Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Operator A

Riverside, CA · On-site

$25.96/hr

Carpenter Co has an immediate opening for 2nd shift Operator A in the LMATT department at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for the safe operation of a specific ...

Track Operator

Irvine, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.40/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Track Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Encapsulator Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... operating procedures Must be reliable and punctual Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO ...

Track Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.40/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Track Operator

Winchester, CA · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

As a Track Operator , you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities * Provide ...

Encapsulator Operator

Ontario, CA

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... operating procedures Must be reliable and punctual Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods Additional Information All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO ...

Machine Operator

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.25/hr

Description: The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining production machinery to ensure efficient and safe manufacturing operations. This position requires ...

Machine Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operators do essential jobs with rates starting at $20.00/hr., plus available overtime. In this role, you will be responsible for operating production equipment, assembling and processing ...

Equipment Operator

Upland, CA

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers ...

Equipment Operator

Upland, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers ...

Machine Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Machine Operators do essential jobs with rates starting at $20.00/hr., plus available overtime. In this role, you will be responsible for operating production equipment, assembling and processing ...

Be Seen First

Job Overview Machine Operator I is an entry-level role within the Glass room responsible for operating presses and Glass dies and equipment. This individual ensures parts meet quality standards by ...

New

Machine Operator

Chino, CA · On-site

$18/hr

We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our production team in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating ...

Track Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.40/hr

As a Track Operator, you will be at the core of the day to day operations, leading and guiding our customers to a fun, safe karting experience. Is this you? Duties and Responsibilities: * Provide ...

Machine Operator

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Headquartered in Richmond, British Columbia, since 1964, Tree Island Steel, through its three operating facilities in Canada and the United States, produces wire products for a diverse range of ...

Equipment Operator

Glendora, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator maintains the grounds of golf courses by performing some or all of the following duties: mowing turf areas, operating a gas-powered blower, and picking up leaves and trash.

Equipment Operator

Glendora, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Equipment Operator maintains the grounds of golf courses by performing some or all of the following duties: mowing turf areas, operating a gas-powered blower, and picking up leaves and trash.

Showing results 41-60

Excavator Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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.

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 cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

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.

$25.96/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Carpenter Co. rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Do you want to be part of a team that aspires to improve the quality of life for others? Are you interested in efficient manufacturing processes that promote sustainability? Do you feel a sense of accomplishment in a job well done? At Carpenter Co., we challenge our employees to learn from and inspire one another - all levels of the company collaborate, communicate and constantly improve to achieve shared success. If that sounds like an environment in which you will thrive, Carpenter Co. could be a great fit for you!
Carpenter Co has an immediate opening for 2nd shift Operator A in the LMATT department at our Riverside, CA manufacturing plant. This position is responsible for the safe operation of a specific piece of equipment used to manufacture components and finished products for internal and external customers as defined by a daily production schedule. This position works in a normal production/maintenance environment with exposure to temperature changes and loud noise.
Carpenter Co. employees are committed to working hard to ensure production goals are met while maintaining operations excellence. As the successful candidate, you will be expected to maintain daily communications with Department Manager and other employees in the department to ensure the needs of all internal and external customers as outline by the production schedule are met.
Your additional responsibilities as an Operator A will include:
  1. Must be able to read and complete the labeling process.
  2. Maintain a neat, orderly, and safe working environment.
  3. Must be able to operate the machinery proficiently according to customer specifications and the daily production schedule.
  4. Conducts quality checks to ensure product meets all specifications.
  5. Monitors the equipment to make sure downtime is kept to a minimum.
  6. Inputs pertinent data into the SAP system.
  7. Must be forklift certified.
  8. Must be able to make machine adjustment when necessary.
  9. Assist with inventory

Skills and requirements
  • Must be able to read and interpret a tape measure
  • Basic computer knowledge and ability to use computerized equipment in daily operations
  • Basic reading, writing and math skills
  • Ability to work flexible hours and overtime
  • Forklift Certified

Pay depends on qualifications and experience. The Operator A hourly rate starts at $25.9571 per hour.
Carpenter Co. is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or other legally protected characteristic.
Carpenter Co. conducts pre-employment drug testing on all applicants that receive and accept a written offer of employment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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