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Excavator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

CleanHarbors

Excavator Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$24/hr

Clean Harbors in Cincinnati, OH is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations. Pay: $24 hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift Shift: 2nd ...

Clean Harbors

Excavator Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$24/hr

Clean Harbors in Cincinnati, OH is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations. Pay: $24 hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift Shift: 2nd ...

Safety-Kleen

Excavator Operator

Saint Bernard, OH · On-site

$24/hr

Operate excavators and backhoes safely and efficiently * Assists with moving drums as necessary; * Assures unit is never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is inconsistent with ...

Clean Harbors

Excavator Operator

Cincinnati, OH

$24/hr

Clean Harbors in Cincinnati, OH is looking for a Equipment Operator will be operating an Excavator and Backhoe for our Mix Pit operations. Pay: $24 hr. w/$1.75 SD pay added for 2nd shift Shift: 2nd ...

Layton Services

Mainline Excavator Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Operating excavators with precision to dig on grade around existing utilities and in a trench box.Collaborating with your pipe layer, foreman, and superintendents to ensure safe execution and project ...

Layton Services

Mainline Excavator Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Operating excavators with precision to dig on grade around existing utilities and in a trench box. * Collaborating with your pipe layer, foreman, and superintendents to ensure safe execution and ...

Clean Harbors

Excavator Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Operate excavators and backhoes safely and efficiently * Assists with moving drums as necessary; * Assures unit is never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is inconsistent with ...

Kelchner

Mainline Excavator Operator

Springboro, OH · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Summary: Operates various pieces of heavy equipment (excavators, etc.) to move, level, and distribute earth and to push trees and rocks from land preparatory to ...

Kelchner, Inc.

Mainline Excavator Operator

Springboro, OH · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Summary: Operates various pieces of heavy equipment (excavators, etc.) to move, level, and distribute earth and to push trees and rocks from land preparatory to ...

Kelchner

Mainline Excavator Operator

Springboro, OH

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Summary: Operates various pieces of heavy equipment (excavators, etc.) to move, level, and distribute earth and to push trees and rocks from land preparatory to ...

Porta Kleen

Hydro Excavator Operator

Fairfield, OH

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Operate hydro excavation trucks using pressurized water and vacuum systems to safely expose underground utilities * Perform excavation work in compliance with safety standards and job specifications

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How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Ohio is $22.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.25 and $23.75 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

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

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Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,713 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Sidney, OH • On-site

Utility Solutions Midwest Division
See more jobs at Utility Solutions Midwest Divisionexternal

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Seeking full time skilled mini excavator operator to perform precise digging, trenching and grading.

Key responsibilities:

*safely operate mini excavator for trenching, backfilling, and site preparation

*identify and avoid underground utilities (gas, water, electric) before digging

*perform daily pre-operational inspections, including fluid check and lubrication

*interpret site plans/blueprints to meet specific grade requirements

Qualifications:

*experience 1-2+ years of experience operating mini excavator 

License:

*good driving record with valid drivers license (CDL preferred)

Company Description

Utility Construction