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Excavator Pay Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

General Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Crew Foreman / Field Supervisor Position Type: Full-time Pay range: $19-$23/hr (+$1 for CDL A) Role ... Safely operate and maintain construction equipment such as mini excavators, trenchers, hydro-vacs ...

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Showing results 1-20

Excavator Pay information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do excavator pay jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator pay in Springfield, MO is $23.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $26.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are excavator pay rates and what factors influence them?

Excavator pay refers to the wages earned by individuals who operate excavators, which are heavy construction machines used for digging and earthmoving. The pay rate for excavator operators can vary widely depending on factors such as location, level of experience, type of employer, and the complexity of the job. In the United States, the average hourly wage typically ranges from $18 to $35 per hour, with experienced operators and those working in high-demand areas earning more. Unionized jobs and large infrastructure projects may also offer higher pay and additional benefits. To get the most accurate information, it's best to consult local job postings or salary surveys.

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 proficiency in operating heavy machinery, understanding of construction site safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and GPS-guided systems, as well as certifications like OSHA or NCCER, are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise work on construction sites, minimizing errors and hazards.

What are some common challenges faced by excavator operators on a typical job site?

Excavator operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or uneven spaces, dealing with varying soil conditions, and maintaining clear communication with other site workers to ensure safety. Managing equipment maintenance and troubleshooting minor mechanical issues on the job are also frequent responsibilities. Additionally, operators must constantly adapt to changing project requirements and weather conditions, which can impact both productivity and safety.

What is the difference between Excavator Pay vs Backhoe Loader Operator?

AspectExcavator PayBackhoe Loader Operator
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy-duty projectsConstruction sites, utility work
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, demolition, miningConstruction, landscaping, utility companies

Both excavator operators and backhoe loader operators require similar certifications and work in construction environments. However, excavator pay typically reflects larger equipment and more specialized tasks, often leading to higher wages compared to backhoe loader operators. Understanding these differences can help job seekers target the right roles and salary expectations in the construction industry.

Do excavator operators make good money?

Excavator operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry. They often receive benefits and may need certifications or specialized skills to increase earning potential. Overall, the job can provide a solid income within the construction and heavy equipment fields.

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Excavator Pay jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Excavator Pay job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavator Pay job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,491 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc

Springfield, MO

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, dozers, skid steers, and telehandlers safely and efficiently.

  • Perform excavation, grading, material handling, site preparation, and backfilling activities according to project specifications.

  • Conduct daily equipment inspections, report maintenance needs, and ensure equipment is maintained in accordance with safety standards.


Emery Sapp & Sons rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator to work on our construction projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background operating a variety of heavy equipment, including excavators, dozers, skid steers, and telehandlers, on heavy civil construction sites. This role requires a strong commitment to safety, the ability to work efficiently in a team environment, and experience working in challenging field conditions. This project is out of state and will require travel for 12+ months.

Responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently, including excavators, dozers, skid steers, and telehandlers
  • Perform excavation, grading, material handling, site preparation, and backfilling activities according to project specifications
  • Read and understand grade stakes, utility markings, and project plans as needed
  • Assist with trenching, earthwork, utility installation support, and general construction operations
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair needs
  • Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and operated in accordance with company safety standards
  • Work closely with superintendents, foremen, and crew members to complete projects safely and efficiently
  • Identify and resolve issues that arise during construction activities
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years of heavy equipment operating experience in heavy civil construction
  • Proven experience operating excavators, dozers, skid steers, and telehandlers
  • Experience working around underground utilities, grading operations, earthwork, or site development projects preferred
  • Ability to excavate, fine grade, load trucks, handle materials, and work safely around crews and existing infrastructure
  • Must be willing to travel and work out of state for extended periods
  • Must be willing to work nights and weekends as needed
  • Strong understanding of equipment safety, maintenance, and daily inspections
  • Ability to read grade stakes, construction plans, and project layouts is preferred
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a variety of audiences
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing jobsite conditions
  • A commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)


What Emery Sapp & Sons employees say

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