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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Team Fishel

Equipment Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Responsibilities 1. Safe operation of directional drills, trenching, or excavating equipment for ... materials and equipment owned by Team Fishelâ€'s Customers 4. Working on sensitive ...

Cass Arrieta

Equipment Operator

San Bernardino, CA

$20 - $27.25/hr

We can provide the security and benefits of a large corporation yet still embrace our family owned culture. Cass Arrieta is seeking EXPERIENCED Underground Loader and Excavation Operators . Minimum 2 ...

KASA Construction Inc.

Operating Engineer

Chino, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

This includes work on highways, bridges, dams, water pipeline, tunnel work, grading, excavation ... KASA is proud to be a certified women-owned and micro-business. We pride ourselves on safe, quality ...

All JobsExcavator Owner Operator JobsExcavator Owner Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Excavator Owner Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner 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 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 specialized skills, certifications, and the ability to operate larger or more complex equipment.

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 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.

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 size, and the complexity of projects undertaken.

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 reliable contracts. Successful operators often have relevant skills, certifications, and a good understanding of the local construction market.

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 most commonly searched types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
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What job categories do people searching Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Excavator Owner Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Excavator Owner Operator job openings:
Excavator Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,762 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Lead Excavator Operator/Backhoe Operator

Cass Arrieta

San Bernardino, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Cass Arrieta is a General Engineering Contractor specializing in wet utilities, dry utilities, structural concrete, and associated scopes of work within the public and private markets.  With a combined total of more than $750 million of pipeline and structural concrete work completed to date, Cass Arrieta specializes in water-sewer-storm drain pipelines, dry utilities, pump stations, pipeline assessment, water and waste-water facilities, water reservoirs, emergency work, and slope reconstruction.  There are numerous General Engineering Contractors in Southern California but we separate ourselves with superior service, quality of work, and integrity.

With projects spanning across Southern California, the career opportunities at Cass Arrieta are always evolving. 

As a company we believe our most important asset is our employees.  We strive to provide industry leading benefits that provide them a secure and better future. 

We can provide the security and benefits of a large corporation yet still embrace our family owned culture.

Job Description

Cass Arrieta is seeking EXPERIENCED Lead Excavator/Backhoe Operators. Must be experienced in deep sewer mainline sloped trench excavating, OR experienced in dry utility joint trench mainline excavating.

Minimum 3 years experience, please do not apply if you do not have at least 3 or more years of experience.

We must be able to verify references, you will be tested on equipment prior to hiring.

Must pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Submit resumes or call for application

Job locations will be located throughout the Inland Empire

Job Type: Full-time

Competitive Wages based on experience

COVID-19 considerations:
To keep everyone safe masks are required at all times.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

  • Construction Experience: 3 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Preferred)

Work Location:

  • Multiple locations throughout the Inland Empire 

Work Remotely:

  • No

COVID-19 Precaution(s):

  • Social distancing guidelines in place
  • Sanitizing, disinfecting, or cleaning procedures in place

EOE/Disabilities/Veterans