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Excavator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

GS Construction

Excavator Operator

Acheson, AB · On-site

CA$35 - CA$45/hr

Excavator/Hoe Operator, Underground Construction Employer: GS Construction Business Address: 29211 Acheson Road, Acheson, AB T7X 6A8 Job Locations: The position requires travel to various locations ...

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KLS Earthworks

Excavator Operator

Rocky View County, AB · On-site

Join Our Team KLS Earthworks & Environmental is hiring a Excavator Operator. We are looking for a professional who is enthusiastic and safety conscious to work full-time in Calgary. Reporting to the ...

Park Paving Ltd.

Excavator Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$36 - CA$42/hr

Strong working knowledge of excavators and the ability to operate safely * Perform pre/post trip inspections and general preventative maintenance of the equipment * Understands and implements proper ...

Golderado Contracting Corp

Excavator Operators At Golderado, the work we do is built by the people on our sites every day. We're looking for skilled, hardworking tradespeople who take pride in their craft, look out for their ...

Golderado Contracting Corp

Excavator Operators At Golderado, the workwe do is built by the people on our sites every day. We're looking for skilled, hardworking tradespeople who take pride in their craft, look out for their ...

Ledcor Group

Excavator Operator

Fort Saskatchewan, AB · On-site

Are you an experienced Excavator Operator looking for an exciting opportunity to work on a major industrial project? At Ledcor, we take pride in safety and quality, and we're looking for dedicated ...

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Excavator information

See Alberta salary details

$14

$22

$35

How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Alberta is $22.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavator?

Excavators are heavy construction machines used for digging, lifting, and moving large objects or materials like soil, rocks, and debris. They typically consist of a boom, stick, bucket, and a cab mounted on a rotating platform. Excavators are widely used in construction, mining, landscaping, and demolition projects due to their versatility and efficiency. Their hydraulic systems allow for precise control and powerful digging capabilities. Different attachments can be fitted to excavators for specialized tasks, making them essential equipment on many job sites.

What does an excavator operator do?

An excavator operator controls and maintains an excavator, which is a piece of heavy machinery used to dig trenches and other holes necessary for laying piping and other infrastructure. In this career, you typically work in the civil engineering or commercial construction field. In addition to digging trenches, your responsibilities include laying the piping, maintaining and inspecting your equipment, and performing routine safety checks on the vehicles. As an excavator operator, your duties may include including operating other heavy equipment as needed on the construction site as well.

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

To thrive as an Excavator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, construction site safety, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, GPS machine control, and certifications such as OSHA safety training or a heavy equipment operator license are typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team help an excavator excel on complex job sites. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and precise work, minimizing risks and supporting project success.

What are some common challenges faced by excavators on construction sites, and how can they be addressed?

Excavators frequently encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with varying soil conditions, and coordinating with other equipment operators and site personnel. These challenges can be addressed by thorough site assessment, effective communication with the team, and adherence to safety protocols. Additionally, ongoing training in equipment operation and hazard recognition helps excavators adapt to changing site conditions and maintain productivity.

What is the difference between Excavator vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectExcavatorBackhoe Operator
CertificationsOperator license, safety trainingOperator license, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, demolition projectsConstruction sites, utility work
EquipmentLarge tracked excavatorsBackhoe loaders with front bucket and rear excavator arm
Primary UseDigging large trenches, heavy liftingExcavation, loading, small to medium digging tasks

While both excavators and backhoe operators work in construction and excavation, excavators are larger machines used for heavy-duty digging and lifting, often on large projects. Backhoe operators handle smaller, versatile equipment suitable for utility work and smaller excavations. The choice depends on project size and scope.

How do you get an excavator job?

To get an excavator job, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience, and a valid commercial driver's license if operating heavy equipment on public roads. Many employers also require OSHA safety training and certification in operating excavators, along with physical fitness and the ability to work outdoors in various conditions.
More about Excavator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Alberta?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Alberta are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator jobs in Alberta?

For Excavator jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator jobs in Alberta look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator jobs in Alberta are:

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Excavator jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Excavator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator jobs in AB?

For Excavator jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,113 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Option Excavating Inc

Spruce Grove, AB • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Option Excavating is hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our growing underground utilities team.

We're looking for operators with experience excavating for water mains, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and underground utility installations.


Responsibilities

  • Operate excavators and other heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Excavate to required grades and elevations.
  • Work closely with gradepersons, pipelayers, and foremen.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections.
  • Follow all safety procedures and company policies.
  • Assist with maintaining productive and safe job sites.


Qualifications

  • Experience operating excavators in underground utility construction.
  • Knowledge of trench safety and excavation practices.
  • Ability to excavate accurately to grade.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Reliable and safety-focused.


What We Offer

  • Competitive wages based on experience.
  • Full-time employment.
  • Immediate start available.
  • Strong safety culture.
  • Opportunities for advancement.
  • Supportive and professional work environment.


Join a company that's growing and values experienced operators who take pride in their work.