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Excavator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

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This role requires operating equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and backhoes to move earth, materials, and debris on construction sites. Responsibilities: * Operate heavy equipment ...

This position will focus on operating heavy equipment, including excavators and dozers * The work will be conducted on live roadways, requiring a high level of safety awareness and the ability to ...

New

Excavation, grading, and compaction of land surfaces using heavy, motorized construction equipment. * Excavate soil and other material from job sites into trucks for transportation to appropriate ...

Dirt Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Backhoe, track hoe, packers/rollers, sweepers, graders, skid steer, forklifts, tractors & heavy-duty truck (3 tons and up). with additional training in excavation ...

Dirt Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$30.25/hr

Operates Heavy and Light Equipment = Backhoe, track hoe, packers/rollers, sweepers, graders, skid steer, forklifts, tractors & heavy-duty truck (3 tons and up). with additional training in excavation ...

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

Operator

Prairieville, LA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Operates and monitors performance of heavy construction type equipment, such as bulldozers, loaders, skid steers, excavators, marsh buggies, forklifts, shovels, etc. * Learn and follow safety ...

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

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Excavator information

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How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.49 and $23.99 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Excavator jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Excavator job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,182 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Manchac Contractors

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking an experienced and safety-conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join our construction team. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating various types of heavy machinery, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a strong commitment to safety and efficiency. This role requires operating equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and backhoes to move earth, materials, and debris on construction sites.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently, following manufacturer guidelines and site-specific procedures.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance on equipment, identifying and reporting any issues or malfunctions.
  • Read and interpret construction plans, blueprints, and site markings to determine excavation and grading requirements.
  • Excavate, grade, and level soil and other materials to prepare construction sites for foundations, roads, and other structures.
  • Load and unload materials, such as dirt, gravel, and debris, onto trucks or other transport vehicles.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, adhering to safety protocols and contributing to a professional appearance of the job site.
  • Follow all safety regulations and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
  • Operate equipment in various weather and terrain conditions, adapting to changing site conditions as needed.

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of 3 years of operating an excavator and a bulldozer is required.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain necessary equipment certifications (e.g., OSHA, NCCCO).
  • Strong understanding of construction site safety protocols and equipment operation procedures.
  • Physical ability to perform manual tasks, including climbing in and out of equipment, standing, bending, and working in various weather conditions.

Company Description

We are a Baton Rouge-based civil contractor that self-performs site preparation, earthwork, underground utilities, soil stabilization, foundations, paving, and structural concrete. Our fundamental strength is the ability to strategically plan and deliver each project as intended.