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Excavator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Rogers Group

Grading Site Foreman

Huntsville, AL

$30/hr

This includes excavation, filling, compaction, and testing of materials. Also responsible for underground utility installation on sites. * Knowledge of mass grading sequencing and placement of ...

Rogers Group

Grading Site Foreman

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$30/hr

This includes excavation, filling, compaction, and testing of materials. Also responsible for underground utility installation on sites. * Knowledge of mass grading sequencing and placement of ...

Rogers Group

Grading Site Foreman

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$30/hr

This includes excavation, filling, compaction, and testing of materials. Also responsible for underground utility installation on sites. * Knowledge of mass grading sequencing and placement of ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL · On-site

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

Rogers Group

Rock Breaker Operator

Laceys Spring, AL

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Rogers Group is currently seeking candidates for the Excavator Operator with Rock Breaker Attachment at our Lacey's Spring Quarry in Lacey's Spring, AL. The successful candidate will have a ...

GHD Group

Construction Laborer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Laborer/ Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated ...

GHD

Construction Laborer

Decatur, AL

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Laborer/ Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated ...

Aerotek

General Laborer

Decatur, AL

$21.50/hr

Experience operating excavators, dozers, track hoes, skid steers, and other heavy equipment. * Familiarity with operating haul trucks and dump trucks in an industrial setting. * Experience with ...

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All JobsExcavator JobsExcavator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Excavator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$18

$21

$24

How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Decatur, AL is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are excavators?

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.

Is Excavator Operator a stressful job?

Excavator operators often work in physically demanding environments that require attention to safety and precision, which can contribute to stress. Factors such as tight deadlines, equipment maintenance, and working outdoors in various weather conditions may also impact stress levels, but proper training and safety protocols help manage these challenges.

How much does an excavator make?

An excavator operator's average salary varies by experience, location, and employer, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially in regions with high construction activity.

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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Excavator, and why are they important?

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.

How much is the salary for an excavator?

The average salary for an excavator operator in the United States ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge or union membership may earn higher wages, and some work on a seasonal or hourly basis.

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 certifications such as a crane or excavator operator license. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions can improve job prospects in this field.
More about Excavator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Excavator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Excavator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Excavator job openings:
Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Decatur, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,945 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Trackhoe Operator

Southern Site Contractors

Mooresville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Company Description

The Southern Site story began when Ryan Clinard identified a significant opportunity in the development market while working for a home builder. He saw room for a professional site contractor that was extremely capable, treated people well, and was transparent about their business.

Southern Site was officially born in February of 2017 from nothing. The original plan was to find a small team and develop 25 lots in the first year. Thanks to demand, that went out the window fast, and the newly formed Southern Site team completed 75 lots with another 100 under development by day 365.

The growth hasn't slowed since then, either. With a team in the hundreds of both industry veterans and young but eager to learn talent, Southern Site's created a site work and erosion control presence in Nashville, Knoxville, and Huntsville. While they have an extremely nice fleet of iron and GPS on every Site, their competitive advantage comes from how well they treat and respect their people-they share everything and everyone at the business shares in the success.

Job Description

Reporting to the Foreman, the Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the construction excavator/hoe. The Excavator/Hoe Operator uses mechanical controls to operate the boom, arm and bucket to excavate, level off and work the ground.

  • Operate the excavator/hoe and other heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.
  • Perform daily maintenance and safety checks of equipment.
  • Conduct pre-operational checks on equipment, and clean, lubricate and refill equipment as necessary.
  • Work with ground personnel in the excavation and installation process of laying pipe on line and grade.
  • Ensure trench is excavated to the proper depth/grade.
  • Responsible for placement of water, storm and sanitary sewer pipe in the excavation.
  • Follow directions of ground crew regarding craning, gravel placement and grading.
  • Cut grade with minimal time spent on excavating to ensure production is on schedule.
  • Conduct trench work, which meets OH&S requirements.
  • Operate Excavator/Hoe on public roadways, maintaining proper awareness of ones surroundings.
  • Ensure a sound understanding of the issues involving ground disturbance.
  • Be aware of proper rigging of pipe, manhole barrels, etc. and ensure safe work procedures are followed during the lowering of materials into the excavation.
  • Perform routine cleaning and maintenance to ensure smooth operation of the Excavator/Hoe.
  • Train new employees in the safe and efficient operation of the Excavator/Hoe.
  • Operate other heavy equipment and other construction-related duties as required.
Qualifications
  • Minimum 3 to 5 years' experience within the road construction industry
  • 2 to 3 years' experience operating an Excavator/Hoe is required
  • Knowledge of Excavator/Hoes and other heavy equipment.
  • Knowledge road construction materials, road construction processes and industry requirements.
  • Understanding of computerized controls and electronics.
Additional Information

Working Conditions

  • Overtime as required.
  • Work is performed in an outdoor setting, which could include inclement weather, heat and
  • humidity, and exposure to dust and asphalt.
  • Must be physically able to repetitively lift and carry at least 50 LBS on a regular basis.
  • Use of Personal Protection Equipment is required.
  • Use of sunscreen, long sleeves, and appropriate headgear is recommended.
  • Must comply with the company's drug and alcohol testing requirements.All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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