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Excavator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC

$20 - $26.50/hr

The Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment to perform excavation, grading, and site preparation activities in support of construction projects. Responsibilities * Comply with ...

Overview Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our New 540 Office. Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ...

Overview Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our New 540 Office. Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ...

Job Title Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other structures Cleans and maintains equipment, making basic repairs as necessary. Moves levers, pushes pedals ...

Overview Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our New 540 Office. Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ...

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our New 540 Office. Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the lobby ...

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Overview Thank you for your interest in FlatironDragados! Please make sure you visit our New 540 Office. Employment applications will be available at the front and a drop box will be available in the ...

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Excavator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$18

$20

$24

How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Raleigh, NC is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $22.07 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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Excavator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Excavator job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,383 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Raleigh, NC


Morgan Corp.
Trucking • 1 - 5K employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Paid breaks

Learn new skills


$20 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description
We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Excavator Operator to join our construction team. The Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment to perform excavation, grading, and site preparation activities in support of construction projects.

Responsibilities
  • Comply with all company and site specific policies and procedures
  • Safe and efficient operation of equipment to meet production targets
  • Perform routine inspections, safety walk-arounds, and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment
  • Maintain equipment in good operating condition, reporting and logging maintenance requirements or concerns
  • Complete required paperwork, reporting, and other documentation as required
  • May perform other related duties as assigned


Qualifications
  • At least two (2) years of experience operating heavy equipment
  • Knowledge of safe and productive operation of equipment, including but not limited to Caterpillar, Komatsu, etc.
  • Must be able to climb in and out of equipment unassisted
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license
  • Frequently lift 20 pounds, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be willing and able to travel to other project sites throughout the Southeastern U.S. as needed
  • Ability to have a flexible work schedule, including working overtime and weekends as needed


Benefits
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with company match
  • PTO, holidays, and a paid winter shutdown
  • Professional development & career growth opportunities
  • Supportive team environment in a respected, growing company

Morgan Truck Body logo

About Morgan Truck Body

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Marking our 70th year as the leading manufacturer of truck bodies in North America, Morgan Truck Body LLC takes pride in delivering and servicing top-quality products. Our success is built on a solid foundation of innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship, leading to remarkable growth over the years. In addition to dry freight truck bodies, we excel in meeting diverse and customized truck body requirements, offering solutions like electric vehicles, mobile service units, and refrigerated products. Our products cater to various industries, including agriculture, construction, landscaping, and material transport, among others.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Morgantown, PA, US

Year founded

1952

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What Morgan Truck Body employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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