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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs in Springfield, MO

Survey Intern

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

... experts in excavation, grading, underground utilities, bridge construction, and asphalt and ... Since the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) was created, ESS has experienced incredible growth.

Skilled Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Excavate, distribute, and level construction materials as required for project needs. * Lift, carry ... Education/Experience * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred. * Previous experience in ...

Skilled Laborer

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Excavate, distribute, and level construction materials as required for project needs. * Lift, carry ... Education/Experience * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) preferred. * Previous experience in ...

Showing results 21-26

Experience Excavator Operator information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do experience excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for experience excavator operator in Springfield, MO is $23.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $26.01 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 Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Experience Excavator Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Experience Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Experience Excavator Operator job openings:

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Emery Sapp & Sons rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

We're currently looking for a Surveying Intern who can make an impact to our GPS team in Springfield, MO.
WHO WE ARE.
Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc. (ESS) is all about owning what we do. We're an 100% employee-owned multi-faceted contractor who thrives on delivering complex heavy civil projects by developing innovative infrastructure solutions. Since our founding in 1972, ESS has grown into a team of more than 1100 employee-owners that are experts in excavation, grading, underground utilities, bridge construction, and asphalt and concrete paving.
HOW WE OWN IT.
Being a 100% employee owned firm is integral to our company identity. It's the foundation of our values, our culture, and the way we serve our clients. Most importantly, being 100% employee owned means everyone who works for ESS is a part-owner of the company. ESS' success is driven by our employee-owners, and we want them to be rewarded for that work! Since the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) was created, ESS has experienced incredible growth. In fact, ESS stock has increased nearly 30% each of the last three years. It's an exciting time to be an employee-owner at ESS!
What you'll be doing:
At ESS, the Surveying Intern has the opportunity to work side by side with an experienced Surveying Technician while learning and applying survey knowledge to a job site, getting introduced to construction flow, in-depth plan reading, and real world-hands on field experience.
Our on-the-job training will focus on construction layout using the latest surveying techniques and equipment. As an intern, you will also gain valuable insight to ESS' workflow that will be valuable in your chosen career field. This internship is perfect for someone studying Construction Management as many of our Surveying Interns progress into Full-Time Surveying Technicians and some have developed into Project Managers and Estimators.
Duties/Responsibilities:
General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Sets up, adjusts, and operates surveying instruments
  • Calibrate sites for GPS rovers and GPS Machine Control
  • Troubleshoot GPS Machine Control
  • Construction layout; storm structures, sanitary structures, water line, pavement, etc.
  • Works from engineering plans to establish lines and grades for construction purposes; keeps engineering notes and records of data secured
  • Provide work control lines and elevations that are required for accurate measurement and correct installation of materials by crafts
  • Provide topographic and cross-section surveys as required for planning and payment quantities
  • Provide quantity calculations as required
  • Prepare documentation of surveying activities
  • Coordinate surveying activities with jobsite all site and operations personnel
  • Be safety minded
  • Client focused, need to be able to communicate with an operator and client and any given time
  • Represent the company in a professional manner on and off the job

Required Skills & Abilities:
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Working knowledge of survey practices and computations
  • Ability to operate field equipment including Total Stations, GPS Rovers and Auto Levels
  • Ability to quickly process information and make decisions
  • Ability to take initiative and prioritize tasks: organizational, problem-prevention and problem-solving skills
  • Strong technical aptitude and knowledge of basic computer technology
  • Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks fast paced environment
  • Dependable and able to work independently with little supervision as well as with a team of individuals
  • Strong math and analytical skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
  • Proficient with Google Suite, Microsoft Excel or related software
  • Knowledgeable of construction procedures, OSHA guidelines and construction equipment, including safe operating practices and signs of maintenance issues
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Must have reliable transportation with the ability to travel
  • Must have the ability to work extended hours as required by the workload
  • Must have a valid driver's license with a clean driving record

Education & Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Familiarity with the surveying and construction industry, willing to train the right candidate who meets our company culture
  • At least two years of construction industry experience required
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30

Bonus Skills & Experience:
  • College or Technical Degree in Surveying or construction related field (preferred)
  • Surveying experience in Civil construction (preferred)
  • Experience with Excel, AutoCad, Trimble Software or other applicable survey software (preferred)
  • You thrive in fast-paced environments
  • You have a good sense of humor (big plus)

Physical Demands & Work Environment:
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in all types of terrain
  • Able to meet all physical requirements
  • Long periods of sitting and operating a vehicle is required
  • Able to work around loud noises and can tolerate being exposed to odors, gasses, dust, etc.
  • Able to work in extreme temperatures, in confined spaces, high places, and in excavated areas
  • Travel is primarily during the business day between our branch office locations and project locations. Some out-of-the area and overnight travel is expected. The employee may travel extensively when project locations are not close to the main office or when responsible for activities at two or more sites
  • This is a full-time position which will typically involve 50+ hours a week. Due to the nature of the job, the employee must be available on-call early/late hours to deal with delays, bad weather and emergencies at the job site.

WHY YOU WANT TO WORK HERE.
Beyond competitive compensation, ESS offers its employee-owners a variety of additional perks and bonus opportunities:
  • Industry-leading Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • 401(k) & Financial Health Education
  • Comprehensive Health Benefits & Insurance with Wellness Incentive
  • Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
  • Business Casual Office Environment
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Opportunities for Overtime
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • Continuing Education & Training Opportunities
  • Apprenticeship Programs
  • Leadership & Training Programs
  • Growth Opportunities

EEO and Drug-Free Workplace
ESS is an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace. We make employment decisions on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The Company does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, marital/familial status, sexual orientation, veterans' status, genetic information or disability or any reason prohibited by law.
ESS is a drug and alcohol free workplace. Prior to employment, a pre-employment drug test is required.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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