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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$20 - $40/hr

About Walsh Reclamation Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 ... Position Summary Operates heavy machinery - including excavators, bulldozers, motor graders ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$20 - $40/hr

About Walsh Reclamation Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 ... Position Summary Operates heavy machinery -- including excavators, bulldozers, motor graders ...

New

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Excavator * Motor Grader * Wheel Scraper * Front End Loader * Haul Truck * Water Pull * Dozer ... F and P Construction is family owned and operated. We specialize in industrial construction and ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Excavator * Motor Grader * Wheel Scraper * Front End Loader * Haul Truck * Water Pull * Dozer ... F and P Construction is family owned and operated. We specialize in industrial construction and ...

Laborer

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

About Walsh Reclamation Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 ... Position Summary The Laborer supports exploration, excavation, and reclamation operations by ...

New

Laborer

Winnemucca, NV ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

About Walsh Reclamation Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 ... Position Summary The Laborer supports exploration, excavation, and reclamation operations by ...

New

Laborer

Las Vegas, NV ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

About Walsh Reclamation Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 ... Position Summary The Laborer supports exploration, excavation, and reclamation operations by ...

New

Laborer

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

About Walsh Reclamation Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 ... Position Summary The Laborer supports exploration, excavation, and reclamation operations by ...

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... excavators, backhoes, and other construction and industrial machinery. The ideal candidate will ... F and P Construction is family owned and operated. We specialize in industrial construction and ...

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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 ...

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Excavator Owner Operator information

See Nevada salary details

$13

$26

$42

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in Nevada is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $29.13 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 the most commonly searched types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Nevada?

The most popular types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Nevada are:

Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Nevada as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,404 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Walsh Reclamation Inc

Las Vegas, NV โ€ข On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

About Walsh Reclamation

Walsh Reclamation is a locally owned and operated company with over 75 years of combined experience in the mining and reclamation field. Since 1992, we've supported hundreds of projects across Nevada. Our modern equipment and dedicated team allow us to deliver efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible work. From drill site and road construction to reclamation and land restoration, we are committed to doing the job right.

Our home office is based in Elko, Nevada, with job sites located throughout the state. Candidates should be prepared to travel to various job sites across Nevada as work assignments require.

Position Summary

Operates heavy machinery — including excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, backhoes, skid steers, and loaders — to excavate, grade, and move earth and materials on jobsites. Performs daily equipment inspections, basic maintenance (fueling, greasing), and reports mechanical issues. Coordinates safely with ground crew and other operators, follows all site safety procedures, and keeps equipment clean and in good working order.

Pay: $20.00 – $40.00 per hour, depending on experience

Requirements

    • Required Qualifications
      • MSHA certification (or ability to obtain prior to start)
      • Have the ability to navigate mountain terrain without GPS or survey guide
      • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
    • Preferred Qualifications
      • Previous experience in mining, exploration, reclamation, construction, or excavation
      • Valid driver's license
    • Physical Requirements
      • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
      • Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb, and work on uneven terrain for extended periods
      • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
      • Frequent standing, walking, bending, and climbing throughout the workday
      • Ability to work extended hours, overtime, and travel to remote job sites as required
      • Must be able to wear appropriate PPE and conduct field inspections

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision Insurance (offered after the 1st of the month following 60 days)
  • 401 (k) Retirement Plan (offered after 90 days of employment)
  • Paid Time Off (offered after 90 days of full-time employment)
  • Per Diem for remote/travel assignments (dependent on each job location)