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Excavator Operator Jobs in Rutland, VT (NOW HIRING)

Operating heavy equipment including loaders, scrapers, blade, excavators, dozers, haul trucks, and other pieces of heavy equipment in a production environment * Performing all pre-shift inspections ...

Operating heavy equipment including loaders, scrapers, blade, excavators, dozers, haul trucks, and other pieces of heavy equipment in a production environment * Performing all pre-shift inspections ...

Operating heavy equipment including loaders, scrapers, blade, excavators, dozers, haul trucks, and other pieces of heavy equipment in a production environment * Performing all pre-shift inspections ...

Dozer Operator - Mining

Ludlow, VT · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Operating heavy equipment including loaders, scrapers, blade, excavators, dozers, haul trucks, and other pieces of heavy equipment in a production environment * Performing all pre-shift inspections ...

Operating heavy equipment including loaders, scrapers, blade, excavators, dozers, haul trucks, and other pieces of heavy equipment in a production environment * Performing all pre-shift inspections ...

Equipment Operator - Mining

Ludlow, VT · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Support excavator * Dozer * Support loader * Grader * Water truck * Haulage truck Other Duties: In ... Operators in any job duty classification may be required to participate in these additional tasks.

Equipment Operator - Mining

Ludlow, VT · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Support excavator * Dozer * Support loader * Grader * Water truck * Haulage truck Other Duties: In ... Operators in any job duty classification may be required to participate in these additional tasks.

Equipment Operator - Mining

Ludlow, VT · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

Support excavator * Dozer * Support loader * Grader * Water truck * Haulage truck Other Duties: In ... Operators in any job duty classification may be required to participate in these additional tasks.

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Excavator Operator information

See Rutland, VT salary details

$14

$26

$42

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Rutland, VT is $26.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.16 and $29.28 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 popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Rutland, VT?

For Excavator Operator jobs in Rutland, VT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rutland, VT are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Rutland, VT with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Rutland, VT 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 $55,730 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Excavator Operators $30-$40/HR

Summit Skilled Solutions / MCM

Proctor, VT • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Summit Skilled Solutions is hiring Excavator Operators for a natural gas compressor station project in Proctor, WV. Must be willing to perform other duties outside the cab as needed if not running equipment. Indefinite work for reliable, skilled operators. Must have (or be willing to get) OSHA 10 or PEC/Safeland card.

Excavator Operator Duties

  • Dig holes for underground piping and relocate dirt
  • Move rocks or other debris
  • Load soil and debris into dump truck for removal

Excavator Operator Qualifications

  • Minimum of 5 years exp operating an excavator
  • Certification preferred but not required
  • Ability to run an all-terrain forklift a HUGE plus
  • Some oil & gas experience preferred but not required
  • Must have (or be willing to get) OSHA 10 or PEC/Safeland card/cert
  • MUST be able and willing to help out as needed outside of the cab
  • MUST be PROFICIENT with manual controls
  • MUST have standard PPE including Fire Retardant Clothing

Excavator Operator Compensation/Benefits

  • $30-$40/hr BOE
  • Weekly direct deposit
  • Guaranteed weekly overtime
  • PTO/holidays
  • Comprehensive medical/dental insurance
  • Indefinite work for the right individuals