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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Sundt

Excavator Operator - CCWRP Phoenix, AZ

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

Job Summary Safely operates a variety of heavy equipment, not limited to; backhoes, excavators ... As a 100% employee-owned contractor, when you work at Sundt, you're not just hiring on at a company ...

New

Sundt

Excavator Operator - CCWRP Phoenix, AZ

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

Job Summary Safely operates a variety of heavy equipment, not limited to; backhoes, excavators ... As a 100% employee-owned contractor, when you work at Sundt, you're not just hiring on at a company ...

New

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How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in Arizona is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavator owner operator?

An Excavator Owner Operator is a skilled professional who owns and operates their own excavator for various construction, demolition, or earthmoving projects. They are responsible for transporting, maintaining, and using their equipment efficiently to complete tasks such as digging trenches, clearing land, and moving heavy materials. Unlike company-employed operators, owner-operators manage their own business, secure contracts, and handle expenses like fuel, repairs, and insurance. This role requires expertise in equipment operation, strong business acumen, and adherence to safety regulations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an excavator owner operator?

As an Excavator Owner Operator, your daily responsibilities generally include transporting your equipment to and from job sites, performing inspections and routine maintenance, and operating the excavator to perform digging, grading, trenching, or demolition tasks as required. You will often need to read site plans or instructions, work closely with site supervisors and other contractors, and ensure all work meets safety and project specifications. Efficient time management is important as you'll often manage your own schedule and billing. The role is hands-on and physically demanding, with a strong focus on precision, safety, and coordination with other professionals to keep projects on track.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavator owner operator?

Excavator Owner Operators require strong mechanical aptitude, equipment operation skills, and a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or heavy equipment operator certification. They must be proficient in using hydraulic excavators, GPS grade control systems, and routine maintenance tools. Excellent problem-solving, time management, and communication skills help operators coordinate with crew members and manage jobsite demands effectively. These competencies are vital for operating safely, maximizing equipment lifespan, and delivering quality results on construction and excavation projects.

How much do excavator owner operators earn?

Excavator owner operators typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with annual incomes ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 depending on experience, location, and workload. Earnings can increase with additional certifications, specialized skills, and the ability to handle larger or more complex equipment.

Is owning an excavator profitable?

Owning an excavator as an owner-operator can be profitable if there is consistent demand for excavation services, proper maintenance, and efficient scheduling. Profitability depends on factors such as equipment costs, project rates, and operational expenses, making it essential to manage costs and secure steady work. Successful operators often combine technical skills with business management to maximize earnings.

Where do excavator owner operators make the most money?

Excavator owner operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with high construction activity, such as urban areas with ongoing infrastructure projects. States or provinces with strong construction industries and higher cost of living often offer better pay, especially for those with specialized skills and certifications. Income can also vary based on experience, equipment, and the complexity of projects undertaken.

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Excavator Owner Operator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Excavator Owner Operator job openings:

Excavator Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,702 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Excavator Operator - CCWRP Phoenix, AZ

Sundt Construction, Inc.

Tempe, AZ • On-site

$21.75 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description


Job Summary
Safely operates a variety of heavy equipment, not limited to; backhoes, excavators, dozers, loaders, graders, haul trucks, dump trucks, water trucks. Will be responsible for preventative maintenance and pre-shift walk around of the assigned equipment to assure safe operation.
Key Responsibilities
  1. Maintain positive working relationships with all members of the crew.
  2. Produce high quality work, safely and productively at all times.
  3. Provide feedback to ensure all materials, tools, equipment and information is available for the work.
  4. Look for opportunities for improvement in all tasks, means and methods regarding the work and be willing to learn from others.
  5. Continually seek opportunities to share knowledge and teach others.
  6. High proficiency in all related equipment preventative maintenance.
  7. Inspect subordinates work, ensure accuracy and compliance with plans and specifications, explain deficiencies and take any necessary corrective action.
  8. Eliminate WASTE such as waiting, rework, transporting, material storage and time.

Minimum Job Requirements
  1. Must have a minimum of three years (level I), four years (level II), five years (level III) and six plus years' experience in the industrial/commercial construction industry and have an in-depth understanding of the operation of various types of heavy construction equipment.
  2. Must be able to read and understand drawings, specifications, safety and quality standards and effectively utilize all trade tools and equipment relevant to the work.
  3. Possess effective verbal and written communication skills.

Note: Job Description is subject to change at any time and may include other duties as assigned.
Physical Requirements
  1. Work up to a 12 hour shift doing hard physical work in varying temperatures and outside conditions.
  2. Will climb and maintain balance on steel/wood framework, stairs, ladders and scaffolds.
  3. Will lift, push or pull objects up to 50lbs. on an occasional basis.
  4. Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis.
  5. Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures.
  6. May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
  7. May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis.
  8. Ability to wear personal protective equipment is required (including but not limited to; steel toed shoes, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, hardhat, vest, etc.)
  9. Move in and around confined, cluttered and uneven areas.

Safety Level
Safety-Sensitive
Note: Jobs with the Safety-Sensitive designation are those that include tasks or duties that the employer reasonably believes could affect the safety and health of the employee performing the task or others such as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing/maintaining the operation of any vehicle/equipment, the handling/disposal/transport of hazardous materials, or the handling/treatment/disposal of potentially flammable/combustible materials.
About Us
As a 100% employee-owned contractor, when you work at Sundt, you're not just hiring on at a company, you're joining a culture. Because everyone at Sundt is part owner, you'll join a team of people who are deeply invested in their work. From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.
At Sundt we focus on building long-term prosperity for our clients, communities and employee-owners. We offer competitive pay, industry-leading benefits including a 401k and employee stock ownership plan, incentive programs for craft and administrative employees as well as training that focuses on your personal and professional growth. We're driven by skill, grit and purpose. Join us as we strive to be the most skilled builder in America.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Sundt is committed to the equal treatment of all employees, and/or applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, color, age, disability, national origin, covered veteran status, genetic information; or any other classification protected by applicable Federal, state, or local laws.
Benefit list:
  • Market Competitive Salary (paid weekly)
  • Bonus Eligibility based on company, group, and individual performance
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan & 401K
  • Industry Leading Health Coverage Starting Your First Day
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO)
  • Medical, Health Savings, and Wellness credits
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Workplace Wellness Programs
  • Mental Health Program
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Employee-Owner Perks
  • Educational Assistance
  • Sundt Foundation - Charitable Employee-Owner's program

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