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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

$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 ...

SONSRAY

Account Manager

Fontana, CA

$45K/yr

... excavators, motor graders, wheel loaders, vibratory compaction rollers, crawler dozers, skid steer ... Privately owned and operated, with decisions made based on core values rather than corporate ...

Hensel Phelps Construction

Laborer-KPRMC

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24.32 - $47.58/hr

... owned general contractors in the country. Driven to deliver EXCELLENCE in all we do and supported ... Essential Duties: · Preparation of areas for the placement of concrete involves final excavation ...

Hensel Phelps Construction

Laborer-KPRMC

Riverside, CA · On-site

$24.32 - $47.58/hr

... owned general contractors in the country. Driven to deliver EXCELLENCE in all we do and supported ... Essential Duties: · Preparation of areas for the placement of concrete involves final excavation ...

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 Jun 12, 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.

What type of owner operators make the most money?

In the excavator owner-operator field, those who specialize in high-demand projects such as large-scale construction, infrastructure, or mining tend to earn the most. Additionally, operators with advanced skills, certifications, and modern, well-maintained equipment can command higher rates and increase profitability.

Is there a demand for excavator operators?

There is a strong demand for excavator operators due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and excavation work. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after in the construction and mining industries, with job opportunities available in various regions.

What is an Excavator Owner Operator job?

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 in the Excavator Owner Operator position, and why are they important?

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 operators make a year?

Excavator owner operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled operators with certifications and a strong work record can earn higher wages, especially when working in high-demand areas or on specialized jobs.

Is owning an excavator profitable?

Owning an excavator as an owner-operator can be profitable if there is consistent demand for excavation services, and the operator manages costs such as maintenance, fuel, and insurance effectively. Profitability depends on factors like project volume, pricing, and operational efficiency, with many operators earning a competitive income in the construction and landscaping industries. Proper skills, certifications, and equipment maintenance are essential for sustained profitability.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for 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:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 June 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

Posted 6 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