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Excavator Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

You know how to run an excavator-and you deliver. We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom ...

Excavator Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

You know how to run an excavator-and you deliver. We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom ...

Excavator Operator - Civil Construction

Reno, NV · On-site

$22.25 - $28.50/hr

Safely excavate around existing underground utilities, including electrical and telecommunications infrastructure, following required locate and safe-dig procedures * Place soil and aggregate in ...

Equipment Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

What You'll Do • Safely operate excavators, mini excavators, loaders, and other construction equipment • Support underground utility installation, trenching, backfill, and site restoration work ...

Equipment Operator

Reno, NV

$19 - $26/hr

What You'll Do Safely operate excavators, mini excavators, loaders, and other construction equipment Support underground utility installation, trenching, backfill, and site restoration work Exit ...

Laborer 2

Reno, NV

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

What You'll Do Perform underground utility and trenching work with limited supervision Support operators and foremen during excavation and installation activities Act as a spotter during excavation ...

Laborer 2

Reno, NV · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Support operators and foremen during excavation and installation activities * Act as a spotter during excavation around live or existing utilities, including utility identification and protection ...

Laborer 2

Reno, NV · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

What You'll Do • Perform underground utility and trenching work with limited supervision • Support operators and foremen during excavation and installation activities • Act as a spotter during ...

Coordinate excavation, grading, mass earthwork, drainage installation, erosion control, and site development activities * Utilize GPS machine control technology to ensure grading accuracy and project ...

Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Excavate and transport overburden and other materials across the site. * Control scraper depth and paddle rotation during cutting and loading operations. * Haul material between cut and dump areas ...

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Excavator information

See Reno, NV salary details

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How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Reno, NV is $23.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $24.90 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 Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Excavator jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Excavator job openings:

Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,992 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Ledcor Group

Sparks, NV • On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate excavators for trenching, backfilling, grading, and utility installation in a telecom construction environment

  • Support crews with conduit placement and cable installation to maintain production

  • Complete daily inspections and basic maintenance checks to ensure equipment reliability


Job description

You know how to run an excavator-and you deliver.
We're looking for experienced Excavator Operators who can work safely, move efficiently, and keep production on track in a fast-paced telecom construction environment. This is hands-on work building critical infrastructure-no shortcuts, no wasted movement.
At Ledcor, you'll be part of a crew that gets the job done right, supporting large-scale, high-speed telecommunications projects that have real impact.
This is a long-term career opportunity, with steady work and rotational travel every 4 weeks across Nevada and surrounding states.
If you're reliable, safety-focused, and take pride in clean, efficient work, you'll fit right in.
Come build something that lasts-with a team that expects the best and backs it up.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate excavators for trenching, backfilling, grading, and utility installation in a fast-paced telecom construction environment
  • Safely excavate around live underground utilities including power and telecommunications-no shortcuts
  • Read and execute work using utility locates, site plans, and construction drawings
  • Support crews with conduit placement and cable installation to keep production moving
  • Complete daily inspections and basic maintenance checks to keep equipment running reliably
  • Step in on general construction tasks when needed-team-first mindset
  • Communicate clearly with crew and supervisors to stay aligned and hit daily targets

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 5 years of excavator experience in utilities or construction environments
  • Experience with fiber optic or underground utility installation is a strong asset
  • Solid ability to read drawings and interpret utility locates
  • Strong understanding of safe digging practices and job site safety standards
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Physically capable of lifting up to 70 lbs and working in active construction environments

Work Conditions:

  • Monday to Friday schedule (7:00 AM - 3:00 PM), with overtime available after 40 hours
  • Living Out Allowance (LOA) provided
  • Travel required (rotational work across Nevada and surrounding areas)
  • Full health, dental, vision, and 401(k) matching
  • Outdoor, hands-on work in variable conditions-this is a field role, not a cab-only job

Additional Information

Ledcor Heavy Civil and Mining services reach across the lifespan of a mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service offerings are vast-as are the projects we work on.

Ledcor has been recognized as a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.

Our competitive total rewards package provides compensation and benefits that support your physical, mental and financial well-being. We offer exciting, challenging work with opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.

Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply.

Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor. For more information about Ledcor's Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, please visit our I&D page. Adjustments will be provided in all parts of our hiring process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance by submitting a request via email.

All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Ledcor participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Link to: https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify