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Excavator Operator Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Veit CO

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard-surface ...

Veit

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard-surface ...

Veitusa

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard-surface ...

DeCook Excavating

Concrete Laborer

Byron, MN · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

DeCook Excavating is looking to add another individual to the concrete crew! Typical work hours at ... Follow all health and safety regulations when operating equipment * Ensure regulated and proper ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Eyota, MN

$18/hr

Machine Operator This role involves operating machinery in a climate-controlled manufacturing environment to produce plastic casings used for sausage. You will run shear and tying machines that ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Hayfield, MN Full Time Entry Level Share ( POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment ...

RETURN INC

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Hayfield, MN Full Time Entry Level Share ( POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment ...

Geotek LLC

Machine Operator

Stewartville, MN · On-site

$22.50 - $28.50/hr

The Machine Operator (Filament Winding Operator) is responsible for all poles and processes associated with HMI operations, Veil applications, Resin mixes; including but not limited to prepping ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Rochester, MN

Excavator Operator information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Rochester, MN is $26.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.97 and $29.09 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 popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Rochester, MN? For Excavator Operator jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Rochester, MN 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 $55,305 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Centuri Construction Group

Rochester, MN • On-site

$38.19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Pay Range: $38.19/Hr.

Centuri companies consider several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education, training and skills, and geographic location.

Who We Are

Connecting People to Possibility
As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What sets us apart is our local agility, resources to scale, and comprehensive solutions for a dynamic energy market.

Whether in the field or providing essential behind the scenes support, Centuri offers professional growth opportunities where you can thrive and make a difference. Join a culture where safety, sustainability, and teamwork come first, with training and benefits that truly care for your well-being.

As an experienced Equipment Operator, after paid training, you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a seasoned Foreman, you will join a crew to get the job done right. We believe in the power of teamwork, and all crew members are expected to assist with general labor as needed.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry-required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership 
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities
What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training: natural gas distribution, utility excavation, safety 
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit
Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership
Our Commitment to Opportunity

This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.  Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.

Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.

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