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Excavator Jobs in Rockingham, NC (NOW HIRING)

FD.io

Excavator Operator

Pinehurst, NC

$17/hr

Excavator Operator The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of hydraulic excavators on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Excavator Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of hydraulic excavators on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports excavation, trenching ...

Globe Metallurgical

Excavator Operator

Wallace, SC · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Ferroglobe USA Quartz is currently seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to join our dynamic team in Wallace, South Carolina. This position plays a crucial role in our operations, contributing to the ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Support grading, excavation, embankment, backfill, and paving operations * Maintain safe working distances from personnel, traffic, and other equipment * Perform daily equipment inspections and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$23/hr

Support grading, excavation, embankment, backfill, and paving operations * Maintain safe working distances from personnel, traffic, and other equipment * Perform daily equipment inspections and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$23/hr

Support grading, excavation, embankment, backfill, and paving operations * Maintain safe working distances from personnel, traffic, and other equipment * Perform daily equipment inspections and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Support grading, excavation, embankment, backfill, and paving operations * Maintain safe working distances from personnel, traffic, and other equipment * Perform daily equipment inspections and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Loader Operator

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$23/hr

Support grading, excavation, embankment, backfill, and paving operations * Maintain safe working distances from personnel, traffic, and other equipment * Perform daily equipment inspections and ...

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All JobsExcavator JobsExcavator Jobs in Rockingham, NC

Excavator information

See Rockingham, NC salary details

$17

$19

$23

How much do excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator in Rockingham, NC is $19.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $21.06 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 popular job titles related to Excavator jobs in Rockingham, NC? For Excavator jobs in Rockingham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator jobs in Rockingham, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator jobs in Rockingham, NC are:
What cities near Rockingham, NC are hiring for Excavator jobs? Cities near Rockingham, NC with the most Excavator job openings:
Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator job openings in Rockingham, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,366 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

FD.io

Pinehurst, NC

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of hydraulic excavators on heavy civil and highway construction projects. This role supports excavation, trenching, grading, utilities, drainage, and structural work while ensuring compliance with company standards.

  • Operate hydraulic excavators to perform trenching, excavation, backfill, grading, and material handling
  • Excavate for utilities, drainage structures, foundations, and roadway construction
  • Work safely around live traffic, underground utilities, and other equipment
  • Read and interpret grade stakes, cut sheets, and construction plans
  • Maintain trench safety standards, including proper slopes, shoring, and shielding
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and complete required reports
  • Identify and report equipment issues or maintenance needs
  • Coordinate with foremen, surveyors, laborers, and other operators to maintain production and accuracy
  • 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.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Experience with construction equipment preferred.
  • Experience with utility installation, drainage systems, and structural excavation preferred
  • Strong understanding of trenching safety and underground utility awareness

Benefits

  • 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

Salary Min

USD $17.00/Hr.

Salary Max

USD $30.00/Hr.

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