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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southland Holdings LLC

Excavator Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

PLEASE ONLY RESPOND TO THIS AD IF YOU HAVE EXPERIENCE IN ANY OF THE ABOVE WORK AND SEND A CURRENT AND UPDATED RESUME WITH RELATED PROJECT EXPERIENCE. Mainline excavator operator - dig pipe ditches in ...

Dearborn Brothers Construction

Excavator Operator

Buxton, ME · On-site

$22 - $29.25/hr

Dearborn Brothers Construction, a Southern Maine excavation construction company located in Buxton, is currently looking to hire a full time year round experienced excavator operator: We are a family ...

Southland Holdings

Excavator Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

A Southland Holdings company is currently accepting resumes for   EXPERIENCED - EXCAVATOR OPERATOR , to join our team in El Paso, TX / Santa Teresa, NM. Equipment Operator - Excavator Heavy civil ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Bowmansville, PA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Our client is seeking a skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join their team and contribute to their ongoing success in the mining industry. As an Excavator Operator, you will play a ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Bowmansville, PA

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Our client is seeking a skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join their team and contribute to their ongoing success in the mining industry. As an Excavator Operator, you will play a ...

Turner Mining Group

Excavator Operator

Bowmansville, PA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Our client is seeking a skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join their team and contribute to their ongoing success in the mining industry. As an Excavator Operator, you will play a ...

Urban Infraconstruction

Excavator Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Urban Infraconstruction is seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to support underground utility construction projects. The ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of experience operating ...

W. Gardner LLC

Excavator Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

The ideal candidate will have experience working with pipe crews and underground utilities and be proficient in operating an excavator. *DO NOT APPLY if you don't have any experience*

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Louisa, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

The ideal candidate has at least three (3) years of experience operating excavators in site development, utility installation, or large-scale excavation projects. This role is essential to ensuring ...

Emerysapp

Experienced Excavator Operator

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Experience in earthmoving and heavy construction, including cut/fill operations across various projects * Experience operating excavators, including use of hydraulic hammer attachments preferred

W. Gardner LLC

Excavator Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator On A Pipe Crew We are seeking an experienced excavator operator to join our team in Jacksonville, FL. The ideal candidate will have experience working with pipe crews and ...

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Experience Excavator Operator information

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How much do experience excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for experience excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 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.
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What states have the most Experience Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Experience Excavator Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Experience Excavator Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Experience Excavator Operator jobs are:
Experience Excavator Operator jobs near you

Excavator Operator for Underground Utilities

Cook's Excavating LLC

Colfax, NC

$20 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator - Underground Utilities
Locations: Kernersville, WinstonSalem, Greensboro, NC
Employment Type: Full-Time
Pay is based on Experience


We are hiring an experienced Excavator Operator specializing in underground utility installation. This position is ideal for someone who can work safely, efficiently, and independently on active construction sites.
Requirements
5+ years of excavator operating experience
Strong background in storm, sewer, and water utility installation
Ability to dig safely around existing utilities
Able to read grades, follow layout, and work with pipe crews
Reliable, safetyfocused, and able to work in all weather conditions
Valid driver's license and dependable transportation
Job Duties
Excavate trenches for storm drain, sewer, and water lines
Work closely with pipe crews and site supervisors
Perform safe digging around marked utilities
Maintain equipment and report mechanical issues
Keep work areas clean, organized, and compliant with safety standards

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