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Excavator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Marco Grading LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Local grading and excavating company that has been in business since 1997 is looking to add 2-3 qualified employees to our team. The candidate must have a valid, clean drivers license with at least 2 ...

Marco Grading LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Local grading and excavating company that has been in business since 1997 is looking to add 2-3 qualified employees to our team. The candidate must have a valid, clean drivers license with at least 2 ...

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 ...

Faulconer Construction

Utility Operator

Cary, NC · On-site

Ability to operate excavator on slopes and subgrades to support high production excavation and embankment operations * Operate equipment safely and proficiently in a variety of work environments

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 ...

Terrahawk

Skilled Heavy Equipment Operators

Apex, NC

We are looking forskilled dozer, excavator, and trackhoe operators for civil construction projects, including commercial, public infrastructure, and subdivision work. What You Will Do * Operate heavy ...

Terrahawk

Skilled Heavy Equipment Operators

Apex, NC · On-site

We are looking for skilled dozer, excavator, and trackhoe operators for civil construction projects, including commercial, public infrastructure, and subdivision work. What You Will Do * Operate ...

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Excavator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

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$26

How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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?

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 do you get an excavator job?

To get an excavator job, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience operating heavy machinery, and often a certification such as OSHA safety training or a commercial driver's license. Applying through construction companies, staffing agencies, or online job boards, and demonstrating knowledge of equipment and safety procedures, can improve chances of employment.
More about Excavator jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Excavator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Excavator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for 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:
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, 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,764 per year, or $23 per hour.

Civil Construction Heavy Equipment Operator

J+M Infrastructure

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$18 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

J+M Infrastructure is a rapidly growing Civil, Site & Utilities Contractor who excels in Civil Construction and Site Development Contracting with an emphasis on Utilities and Excavation. We assist with new construction projects by performing demolition, clearing, excavation, asphalt paving, concrete work, water mains, sewer and storm drainage throughout central and southwest Virginia.

We are focused on building a team of dynamic, motivated individuals who are more than just employees but valued and respected team players. People are our priority!

We are looking for qualified candidates to work on our construction sites located in Charlottesville and the Lynchburg, VA area.

These candidates must be highly motivated with a strong work ethic, possess a positive can-do attitude and be willing to get hands dirty and do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Must be able to operate the following equipment effectively:

  • Trackhoe
  • Backhoe
  • Dozer
  • End Dump
  • Skid Steers
  • Wheel and Track Loader
  • Mini Excavator
  • Roller

Requirements:

  • 5 years of experience preferred in civil engineering field
  • Must be able to read a tape measure
  • Must be able to lift 60lbs, squat and climb ladders
  • Must be a Virginia resident
  • Must be a leader who is looking to grow
  • Must pass drug test/screening
  • Must be available to work occasional Saturdays
  • Valid driver’s license required, CDL preferred.
  • Concrete experience preferred
  • Pipe laying experience preferred

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