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Excavator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Kennedy Excavating LLC

Dump Truck Driver

Garner, NC · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Kennedy Excavating LLC is seeking qualified applicants to drive dump trucks. Driver must pass a background check and also a drug test. Applicant must have 2 years experience and be able to drive a ...

Kennedy Excavating LLC

Dump Truck Driver

Garner, NC

$15 - $17/hr

Kennedy Excavating LLC is seeking qualified applicants to drive dump trucks. Driver must pass a background check and also a drug test. Applicant must have 2 years experience and be able to drive a ...

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 1

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

Cardinal Civil Contracting

Operator - 5

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The ideal candidate will be proficient in operating bulldozers and trackhoe excavators to perform various civil construction tasks, including digging, grading, trenching, and laying pipe . This role ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsExcavator JobsExcavator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Excavator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$20

$22

$26

How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Raleigh, NC is $22.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $24.28 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 Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,764 per year, or $23 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Flatiron Construction Corp

Raleigh, NC

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

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 lobby for you to submit your application.  Our office is located at 2832 Auburn Knightdale Road, Raleigh NC, 27610. We look forward to reviewing your application!

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. 

What you will be doing

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, or turn valves to control equipment. Drives and maneuver equipment.
  • Coordinates machine actions with crew members using hand or audio signals.
  • Maintains knowledge of Company's values and strategic plan.
  • Performs additional assignments per management's direction.
What we are looking for
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Experience with construction equipment preferred.
Why work for us

Some of the benefits you may be eligible for as an employee are:

  • Comprehensive compensation package and paid time off program
  • Industry leading 401(k)/RRSP
  • Medical/Extended Health Care, Dental, Vision and/or Provincial Medical
  • Wellness benefits & Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

We are an EEO/ADA/Veterans employer.

Salary MinUSD $22.00/Hr.Salary MaxUSD $30.00/Hr.Employment Type: OTHER

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