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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ

Long Hill Contracting LLC

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Construction Laborer

Hillsborough, NJ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

This position requires working outdoors in varying weather conditions and operating around heavy ... Prior construction or excavation experience preferred * Ability to operate heavy equipment is a ...

Edison Heating & Cooling

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Construction Foreman

Edison, NJ · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

CAT Excavator * Bulldozer * Monitor underground utility work * Ensure compliance with safety ... Experience operating heavy construction equipment * Valid driver's license and reliable ...

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All JobsExperience Excavator Operator JobsExperience Excavator Operator Jobs in Basking Ridge, NJ

Experience Excavator Operator information

See Basking Ridge, NJ salary details

$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

Heavy Equipment Operator

Interstate Waste Services

Kearny, NJ

$30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Interstate Waste Services rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 92 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Overview

Interstate Waste Services is the most progressive and innovative provider of solid waste and recycling services in the country! We primarily service Northern New Jersey, Southern New York State, New York City, with a landfill located in Ohio, where we also own and operate a state-of-the-art rail-served landfill. We cater to a diverse range of residential, industrial, and commercial customers. Our mission has always been to provide our customers with the highest quality waste, recycling, and environmental services, while keeping focus on employee, customer, and environmental safety. 

What makes our company culture unique is we have mastered the ability to balance the standards of a large corporate company while maintaining our small business family style culture. 

Essential Job Summary:

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the loading, pushing, and transferring of solid waste material in our transfer station. The ideal candidate will have the ability to completely maintain this transfer station in an efficient and professional manner. They will possess both a team work mentality as well as self-motivating traits.

Essential Job Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.
  • Operate heavy duty equipment such as excavators and bucket loaders (yellow iron equipment), with various other small machinery
  • Routinely set up and inspect equipment prior to operation
  • Have knowledge of machine capabilities and limitations
  • Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines to perform work duties in compliance of safety specifications
  • Receive written and oral instruction regarding material movement
  • Move materials over short distances, around facility
  • Maintain an efficient flow by loading transfer trailers to target load weight and reduce traffic congestion
  • Create and maintain inclines or ramps
  • Repair machinery and replace parts as needed

Work Environment:

  • Daily exposure to physical environment including odors, loud noises, weather elements, etc.
Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and legally eligible to work in the United States.
  • High school/GED education completed; higher education is a plus.
  • Minimum 2 years' experience as Equipment Operator required.
  • Experience from the sanitation industry is strongly preferred.
  • Fluency in English required, Spanish bilingual is a plus.
Additional Information

This job description is intended to be an accurate representation of the general functions of the job, rather than exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or experience. Other duties may be assigned, requested, or required. Aspects of the job may be altered without notice.

 

Interstate Waste Services provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Salary Range MinimumUSD $23.00/Hr.Salary Range MaximumUSD $30.00/Hr.Employment Type: OTHER

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