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Excavator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

RADIAL SOLUTIONS INCORPORATED

General Laborer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Pressure washing, hand excavation and other related activities * Assist craft workers and technicians on routine and special assignments * Snow and ice prevention (pretreat) and removal (salt system ...

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Must be experienced with loader, excavator and understand their capabilities and limitations * Regular attendance and punctuality are an essential qualification * Must pass a background check ...

Congruex

Directional Drill Locator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$24 - $29.50/hr

... the excavation, landscaping, and construction process. Job Responsibilities (Including, but not limited to): • Utilizes the provided mapping tools and other location information, along with ...

Conditioned Air Solutions

Plumber

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Must have at least 3yrs experience excavating Preferred Qualifications (not required): * Any plumbing certifications Physical Demands: * Ability to operate tablet, mobile phone and other field ...

Wiregrass

Quarry Plant Maintenance Technician

Falkville, AL · On-site

$19.25 - $26/hr

Operate quarry and aggregate equipment as needed to support night operations, including loaders, excavators, haul trucks, skid steers, and other mobile equipment. * Safely start up, shut down, and ...

Witt O'Brien's

Technician (Southeast Region)

Decatur, AL · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Safely operate and maintain equipment and vehicles, including vacuum trucks, hydro excavation rigs, and specialized tools. * Load/unload drums, totes, containers, and equipment from vehicles and job ...

Volarify

Master Plumber (Licensed)-(ID# 646)

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$65K - $120K/yr

... excavation-related plumbing work • Oversee and mentor apprentice and journeyman plumbers on job sites • Ensure all work complies with applicable state, local, and municipal building codes and ...

USIC

Utility Locator

Cullman, AL

$18/hr

We use best-in-class ticket and claims management systems to ensure clear and complete mark-out services for the excavator or property owner at the work site. Your Responsibilities as a Locator:

USIC

Utility Locator

Cullman, AL · On-site

$18/hr

We use best-in-class ticket and claims management systems to ensure clear and complete mark-out services for the excavator or property owner at the work site. Your Responsibilities as a Locator:

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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.

General Laborer

RADIAL SOLUTIONS INCORPORATED

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

RSi is looking to fill a General Laborer position to support our NASA customer. The General Laborer performs a wide range of unskilled and semi-skilled tasks supporting facility operations and maintenance under supervision.


Summary of Duties include but are not limited to:

  • General work site clean-up, dispose of waste, & maintain clean job sites
  • Operate hand tools and light power tools safely
  • Installation/removal of barricades, fences and overall site safety protection
  • Landscaping, asphalt patching and assistance with concrete installation
  • Load/unload materials, tools, equipment; movie items to/from storage
  • Pressure washing, hand excavation and other related activities
  • Assist craft workers and technicians on routine and special assignments
  • Snow and ice prevention (pretreat) and removal (salt system distribution of chemicals)
  • Follow established safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Required Minimum Education/Experience/Certifications:

  • Basic training and experience in performing a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled manual tasks in support of facility operations and maintenance, usually acquired through on-the-job training or equivalent experience
  • Must be able to communicate with peers, supervisors and customers
  • Must be able to work independently or in a team
  • Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Compliance with safety standards and applicable regulations
  • Ability to drive and operate dump truck
  • Must be both physically and mentally capable of passing any certification requirement, complete training, and work overtime as required by the Company.
  • Ability to certify in aerial lift operation
  • Ability to work from varying heights without restrictions
  • Be physically able to operate a multitude of hand tools (jack hammer, chipping gun, shovel, pick, etc.) without restrictions, and accomplish assigned duties as required by immediate supervisor

Work Environment:

  • Indoor and outdoor working environments
  • Test areas, test stands, laboratories, chambers, machine shops
  • Cold and hot weather environments, heights, and confined spaces.

Physical Environment/Requirements (with or without reasonable accommodation):

  • Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and working in awkward positions to access work areas
  • The use of hand and power tools and equipment associated with the position
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull materials and equipment weighing up to 40 pounds
  • Wear and properly use required PPE for all assigned tasks


EOE/Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled

Radial Solutions Inc., (RSi) is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) located in Huntsville, AL. At RSi, we understand that people are the most important aspect of our business! As a service provider to the government, we aim to hire right people for each role. We provide professional development opportunities to support continued professional growth. We strive to foster an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment for every team member.

RSi is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer as defined by the EEOC. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or are a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our Careers site as a result of your disability, you have the right to receive assistance in completing the application process. Please email your resume and application to hr@team-rsi.com or contact us directly about your interest in employment with RSi.

RSi is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender orientation, physical or mental disability, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship, or any other federal, state, or locally protected class.

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