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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ

Tetra Tech

Excavator & Bulldozer Operator

Kearny, NJ

Equipment Operators * Perform construction maintenance activities in a safe and proper manner ... At least 1 year of applicable experience working on a construction site. * Must have a valid driver ...

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Experience Excavator Operator information

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$14

$26

$42

How much do experience excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for experience excavator operator in Basking Ridge, NJ is $26.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $29.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an experience excavator operator?

Experience Excavator Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery called excavators to dig, move, and lift materials at construction sites, mines, or other industrial locations. They are responsible for safely and efficiently performing tasks such as trenching, foundation digging, and site preparation. Operators must have in-depth knowledge of the equipment, safety regulations, and job site procedures. Typically, they have several years of hands-on experience and may hold specific certifications or licenses. Their expertise ensures projects are completed accurately and on schedule.

What are some common challenges an experience excavator operator might face on the job site?

Experience Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or uneven spaces, dealing with varying soil conditions, and maintaining safety around other heavy equipment and personnel. Precision is crucial, especially when digging near underground utilities or existing structures. Operators must also adapt to changing weather conditions that can affect visibility and equipment performance, and regularly coordinate with site supervisors and other crew members to ensure the project stays on schedule.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an experience excavator operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Experienced Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, site safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, hydraulic machinery, and maintenance tools is important for efficient and safe operations. Strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and communication skills help operators work effectively within a team and adapt to changing site conditions. These skills and qualities are essential for maximizing productivity, ensuring job site safety, and minimizing equipment downtime.

What is the difference between Experience Excavator Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectExperience Excavator OperatorExcavator Operator
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL or equivalentOSHA safety training, CDL or equivalent
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, landscaping, demolition
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, heavy equipment rental firmsConstruction firms, landscaping companies

Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction-related environments. The key difference is that an Experience Excavator Operator typically has more hands-on experience, enabling them to handle complex tasks efficiently. An Excavator Operator may be newer to the field or have less practical experience but performs similar duties. Employers often seek experienced operators for high-stakes projects, but entry-level operators are also in demand for basic tasks.

How much do they pay an Experience Excavator Operator?

Experienced excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on location, experience, and the complexity of the projects. Salaries can range from approximately $40,000 to over $70,000 annually for full-time positions, especially those requiring certifications and specialized skills.

How to get a job as an experience excavator operator?

To become an experienced excavator operator, you should complete a formal training program or apprenticeship, obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and equipment operation licenses, and gain hands-on experience by working under supervision. Building a strong safety record and proficiency with various machinery and site conditions are essential for advancing in this role.

Is an Experience Excavator Operator a stressful job?

Experience excavator operators often work in physically demanding environments that require focus and attention to safety, which can be stressful at times. Factors such as tight deadlines, equipment operation, and working outdoors in various weather conditions may contribute to job-related stress. Proper training and experience help manage these stressors effectively.

What job categories do people searching Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ are:

What cities near Basking Ridge, NJ are hiring for Experience Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Basking Ridge, NJ with the most Experience Excavator Operator job openings:

Experience Excavator Operator jobs near you

Excavator & Bulldozer Operator

Tetra Tech

Kearny, NJ

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Tetra Tech rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

404th of 452 rated engineering

Job description

Equipment Operators

  • Perform construction maintenance activities in a safe and proper manner.
  • Conduct site inspections and provide clear and accurate documentation.
  • Maintain, clean, and organize equipment and supplies.
  • Operate heavy equipment (Excavator, Bulldozer, Loader, Skidsteer).
  • Perform daily checks and maintenance on equipment.
     

Required Qualifications:

  • Must be able to pass a drug screening, breath alcohol test, and physical.
  • At least 1 year of applicable experience working on a construction site.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license with a clean record

Preferred Qualifications:

•     Current MSHA training

Physical Requirements:

  • Lift up to fifty (50) pounds on a non-consistent basis.     
  • Able to frequently lift or carry containers, poly pipe, pumps, hoses, shovel garbage and loose material, work in and around mine tailings, or loose materials to truck; which may result in twisting, pulling, pushing and bending, depending on the material and collection vehicle type.

Work Environment / Environmental Factors:

  • Work in extreme weather conditions.
  • Work in and around trenches, heavy equipment, dewatering equipment, and pipe fusion equipment.

Additional Information:

  • Expect to work up to 60+ hours per week.
  • Subject to random breath alcohol and drug screenings.

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

  • Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
  • Merit-based financial rewards.
  • Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
  • Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
  • Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.  

Compensation:

  • Pay commensurate with experience.
  • A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
  • At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.

About Tetra Tech:

  • Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
  • Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
  • We invite applications from all interested parties.

What Tetra Tech employees say

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About Tetra Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Tetra Tech combines the resources of a global, multibillion-dollar company with local, client-focused delivery in more than 450 locations around the world. Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates working together to provide smart, scalable solutions for challenging projects. We are proud to be home to leading technical experts in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.

Industry

Civil engineering construction and environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US

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