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Excavator Shear Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... operating over 70 facilities throughout the Midwest and Southern regions. With a strong commitment ... loader, excavator with shear attachment and material handler. This role serves as a point of ...

Crane Operator The Crane Operator operates scrap handling equipment to include; frontend loader with bucket, material handlers equipped with both a magnet or a hydraulic grapple, excavator with shear ...

... demolition excavators, including Ultra High Reach machines exceeding 75 feet, along with other ... Experience with demolition tools such as steel shear, processors, and breakers * A strong ...

... demolition excavators, including Ultra High Reach machines exceeding 75 feet, along with other ... Experience with demolition tools such as steel shear, processors, and breakers * A strong ...

Showing results 21-40

Excavator Shear Operator information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator shear operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator shear operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavator shear operator?

An Excavator Shear Operator is a skilled heavy equipment operator who uses an excavator fitted with a hydraulic shear attachment to cut and process metal materials, such as steel beams, pipes, and scrap. These operators typically work on demolition sites, scrap yards, and recycling facilities, efficiently dismantling structures and preparing materials for recycling or disposal. They must have knowledge of equipment safety, maintenance, and proper handling of various materials to ensure safe and effective operation. Additionally, they are responsible for inspecting their equipment and adhering to all workplace safety regulations.

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

To thrive as an Excavator Shear Operator, you need expertise in heavy equipment operation, a solid understanding of safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic shears, excavators, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA safety training are important for this role. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and strong communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely on job sites. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, precise material handling and compliance with industry regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by excavator shear operators on demolition sites, and how can they be managed?

Excavator Shear Operators frequently encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, handling unstable structures, and managing heavy debris during demolition projects. Effective communication with site supervisors and crew is essential to ensure safety and efficient workflow. Operators must remain vigilant about equipment maintenance and regularly inspect their machines to prevent breakdowns. Staying updated on safety protocols and leveraging teamwork can help overcome these challenges and maintain a productive work environment.

What is the difference between Excavator Shear Operator vs Demolition Equipment Operator?

AspectExcavator Shear OperatorDemolition Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, demolition projects, scrap yardsBuilding demolitions, site clearing, debris removal
Job FocusUsing hydraulic shears to cut metal and concreteOperating various demolition machinery for tearing down structures

Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction or demolition environments. However, the Excavator Shear Operator specializes in using hydraulic shears for cutting metal and concrete, while the Demolition Equipment Operator handles a broader range of demolition machinery for tearing down structures. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What states have the most Excavator Shear Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Excavator Shear Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Shear Operator jobs?

For Excavator Shear Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Excavator Shear Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Demo Heavy Equipment Operator

Old Bridge, NJ • On-site

Esposito Construction
Construction • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
We are seeking a reliable Demolition Equipment Operator to join our team. This role is responsible for operating heavy equipment such as excavators, skid steers, and loaders to safely perform demolition work on various job sites. The ideal candidate will work closely with crew members and supervisors to complete demolition tasks, maintain equipment, follow safety procedures, and help keep projects on schedule.


Responsibilities:

  • Operate demolition equipment and heavy machinery such as excavators, skid steers, loaders, and other demolition attachments (grapples, breakers, shears, etc.) safely and efficiently
  • Assist with planning and executing daily demolition activities with the crew
  • Work closely with supervisors, crew members, and subcontractors to coordinate demolition tasks and site operations
  • Coordinate equipment and materials required for assigned demolition work
  • Assist with site preparation, structural teardown, debris handling, and loading of demolition materials
  • Provide input for daily and weekly job reports as needed
  • Follow project timelines and communicate with supervisors if delays or issues arise
  • Maintain equipment and perform basic daily inspections before and after operation
  • Follow all site safety procedures and help maintain and strengthen the company’s safety culture


Qualifications:

  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment
  • Previous demolition or heavy equipment operating experience preferred
  • Experience operating excavators, skid steers, or other demolition equipment preferred
  • Ability to work on your feet for extended periods and lift/move materials when needed
  • Must have a reliable pair of work boots and appropriate PPE
  • OSHA 10 and/or OSHA 30 certification preferred


Esposito Construction LLC is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran / Gender Identity / Sexual Orientation / Age