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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs in Rockingham, NC

IE HCR Services, LLC

Grounds Crew

Pinehurst, NC · On-site

$14.79 - $17/hr

This role involves operating small hand-powered equipment, as well as repairing and providing ... Use hand tools for excavation and backfilling of ditches and trenches. * Repair greens using seed ...

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All JobsExperience Excavator Operator JobsExperience Excavator Operator Jobs in Rockingham, NC

Experience Excavator Operator information

See Rockingham, NC salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do experience excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for experience excavator operator in Rockingham, NC is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for an excavator operator?

The highest salaries for experienced excavator operators can exceed $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience working on large-scale projects or in high-demand regions. Factors such as location, employer, and level of expertise influence earning potential in this field.

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.

How much should I charge an hour for an excavator?

Experience excavator operators typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on factors such as location, project complexity, equipment size, and skill level. Rates may also vary based on whether the work is performed as an independent contractor or through a company, and certifications or specialized training can influence pricing.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Experienced 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.

How to get experience as an excavator operator?

To gain experience as an excavator operator, start by completing a training program or certification in heavy equipment operation. Obtain hands-on experience through entry-level positions, apprenticeships, or by working under supervision to develop skills with different types of excavators and safety protocols.

Is 50 too old to become a heavy equipment operator?

Experience excavator operators can start at age 50, as age is not a strict barrier if the individual is physically fit and has the necessary skills. Employers often value experience, safety awareness, and certifications such as OSHA training, regardless of age.

What are Experience Excavator Operators?

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 popular job titles related to Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC? For Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC are:
What cities near Rockingham, NC are hiring for Experience Excavator Operator jobs? Cities near Rockingham, NC with the most Experience Excavator Operator job openings:
Experience Excavator Operator jobs near you

Utilities Crew Leader

Town of Southern Pines

Southern Pines, NC

$47K - $71K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Utilities Crew Leader

Annual Grade Range: $47,988.44 to $71,982.66

Please note that the minimum pay range shown is just that - a minimum. We look at every candidate individually and will make sure that your starting pay offer will be based on the experience, knowledge, skills and abilities YOU bring to the table.

We like to take a "total compensation" philosophy toward employment with the Town. So please carefully factor in ALL the pay, benefits, work environment, growth opportunities, team atmosphere, economic stability, etc. together as you consider a rewarding future with the Town of Southern Pines.

PURPOSE

This position will take on a leadership role in the installation, maintenance, and repair of water and sewer systems. This position will manage complex tasks and be responsible for jobsite safety and ensuring that technicians and staff are following proper procedures. This position may supervise or train lower-level technicians and operators. The role requires a high degree of technical skill and the ability to work independently.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Leads the installation, maintenance, and repairs on water and sewer lines, pumps, hydrants, valves, and other related appurtenances.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues related to system performance, leaks, or blockages.
  • Perform advanced system diagnostics, including pressure testing, flow analysis, and camera inspections.
  • Operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, excavators, sewer combination trucks, to perform complex excavations for installation and complex repairs of water and sewer mains and appurtenances.
  • Adhere to safety standards and operational procedures.
  • Ensure that assigned project staff follow all safety and operational procedures, including trenching safety, confined space entry, and traffic control.
  • Respond to emergencies, such as water main breaks or sewer backups. Will be in rotation for night and weekend on-call duties.
  • Manage work orders and material inventories for assigned projects.
  • Understand how to navigate and work through the Town's work order system. Responsible for the accurate entry of time, equipment, materials, and collected data in the work order system.
  • Train and mentor technicians and operators.
  • Provides input on the hiring and evaluation of technicians and operators.
  • All other reasonably assigned duties.

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND CERTIFICATIONS

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience in water/sewer system maintenance or related field
  • Advanced knowledge of water and sewer systems operations including regulatory requirements
  • Advanced knowledge of tools and equipment used in utility installation, repair, and maintenance.
  • Possess a Class A commercial drivers license with tanker endorsement and an excellent driving record.
  • Strong leadership, communications, and decision-making skills.
  • Possess a B-Distribution and/or Collections II State Certification. If only one certification type is possessed, the second certification type is required to be obtained within a reasonable time accounting for coursework and exam availability.
  • NCDOT Work Zone Supervisor Certification
  • Trenching and Excavation Competent Person
  • Confined Space Competent Person
  • Ability to follow instructions and work in a team environment
  • Other combinations of education and related experience will be considered

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to lift 75 pounds and move over short distances, and 35 pounds over extended distances.
  • Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which include walking, standing, kneeling, squatting, bending, pulling, pushing, reaching or sitting for extended periods of time, lifting and carrying light to moderate equipment and materials and operating assigned vehicles.
  • Climbing ladders as well as climbing into and out of/onto and off of various pieces of equipment, vehicles and equipment trailers.
  • Operating manual hand tools (rakes, shovels, pruners, etc.), light hand power tools (portable saws, blowers, etc.), other power tools (Chainsaws, hedge trimmers, brush chippers, etc.)

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • This position works exclusively outdoors, year-round, and in all weather conditions.
  • This position requires evening, weekend, holiday and call-in/on-call work.
  • This position is considered an ESSENTIAL POSITION, meaning that work may be required during extreme weather events and other emergency situations.

The Town of Southern Pines is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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