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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Hunter Recruitment Advisors

Excavator Operator

Loudon, TN · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

If you have experience operating equipment for sewer and water line installations and enjoy working ... Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs. * Safely expose ...

Aerotek

Traveling Excavator Operator

Knoxville, TN

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

At least 8 years of experience operating excavators in underground utilities, with a strong focus on gravity sewer and mainline installation. * Proficiency in safely excavating trenches from 5 to ...

Phillips, Inc.

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Proven experience operating hydrovac trucks or similar heavy equipment in a construction or utility environment. * Strong understanding of underground utility safety practices and excavation ...

Phillips, Inc.

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Proven experience operating hydrovac trucks or similar heavy equipment in a construction or utility environment. * Strong understanding of underground utility safety practices and excavation ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Mascot, TN · On-site

$30/hr

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? Join the ... Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)

Loram

Machine Operator 1, TSO

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Some assignments require Excavator experience. Meet all relevant or applicable pre-qualifications ... operator (Backhoe, Excavator, or alike). Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment maintenance.

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Mascot, TN · On-site

$30/hr

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? Join the ... Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)

Meridian Waste

Landfill Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include: forklift, excavator, bulldozer ... Education/ and or Experience: * Good customer services skills to meet and exceed customer ...

Meridian Waste

Landfill Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include: forklift, excavator, bulldozer ... Education/ and or Experience: * Good customer services skills to meet and exceed customer ...

MasTec Inc

OHE Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment ... excavators, track hoe, trenchers, digger-derricks, or other construction equipment. * Perform ...

MasTec Inc

OHE Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment ... excavators, track hoe, trenchers, digger-derricks, or other construction equipment. * Perform ...

MasTec Inc

OHE Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment ... excavators, track hoe, trenchers, digger-derricks, or other construction equipment. * Perform ...

MasTec Inc

OHE Operator

Knoxville, TN

Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment ... excavators, track hoe, trenchers, digger-derricks, or other construction equipment. * Perform ...

Meridian Waste

Landfill Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include: forklift, excavator, bulldozer ... Education/ and or Experience: * Good customer services skills to meet and exceed customer ...

Meridian Waste

Landfill Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include: forklift, excavator, bulldozer ... Education/ and or Experience: * Good customer services skills to meet and exceed customer ...

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All JobsExperience Excavator Operator JobsExperience Excavator Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Experience Excavator Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do experience excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for experience excavator operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $25.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.36 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.

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For Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Experience Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Experience Excavator Operator job openings:

Experience Excavator Operator jobs near you

Excavator Operator

Hunter Recruitment Advisors

Loudon, TN • On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Plumbing Excavator Operator

Bio Plumbing
Location: Loudon, TN
Pay Range: $30–32 per Hour (DOE) + Overtime + Benefits

Build More Than Trenches—Build a Career.

We're a growing, family-owned residential plumbing company looking for a skilled Excavator Operator to join our team. If you have experience operating equipment for sewer and water line installations and enjoy working alongside a hardworking crew, we'd love to meet you.

This is a hands-on position where you'll play a critical role in residential plumbing projects, ensuring excavation work is completed safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to homeowners' properties.

What You'll Do

  • Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects.
  • Working on a 2-3 man slab crew.
  • Reading blueprints.
  • Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and repairs.
  • Safely expose existing underground utilities and work around utility locates.
  • Backfill, grade, and restore job sites following excavation work.
  • Assist plumbers with underground piping, trench preparation, and other labor as needed.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventative maintenance.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company policies at all times.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • 3+ years of excavator operating experience
  • Residential plumbing or underground utilities background required.
  • Experience reading blueprints.
  • Experience digging around existing utilities and working from utility locates.
  • Ability to operate equipment safely and efficiently in residential neighborhoods.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to assist the plumbing team when not operating equipment.
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • CDL is a plus but not required.

Benefits

Why Join Our Team?

  • Competitive Pay: $30–32 per hour based on experience
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Stable, year-round work
  • Modern, well-maintained equipment
  • Supportive, family-oriented work environment
  • Opportunities for advancement as our company continues to grow

Join Our Team

We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, values safety, and enjoys being part of a team that delivers quality service to homeowners every day. If you're dependable, experienced, and ready for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us build the infrastructure that keeps our community running!