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Experience Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Aerotek

Excavator Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

$24 - $32/hr

Experienced Excavator Operators We're seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support underground utility and excavation projects in the Norfolk area, including work on active airfields. This ...

M&M Recycling

Excavator Operator

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Previous experience in a scrap yard, recycling facility, or operating heavy equipment. * Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions and performing physical labor throughout the shift.

Aerotek

Excavator Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

$24 - $32/hr

Experienced Excavator Operators We're seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support underground utility and excavation projects in the Norfolk area, including work on active airfields. This ...

Anderson Columbia Co. Inc.

Excavator Operator

Gillett, TX

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Anderson Columbia Co., Inc. is accepting resumes for experienced Excavator Operators for a project in Gillett, TX. Must possess the ability to adapt to different personalities and management styles ...

Allan Myers

Excavator Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/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 ...

M&M Recycling, Inc

Excavator Operator

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Experienced excavator operators. * Previous experience in a scrap yard, recycling facility, or operating heavy equipment. * Comfort working outdoors in all weather conditions and performing physical ...

LaMontagne Builders, Inc

Excavator Operator

Concord, NH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are hiring an experienced Excavator Operator. This position will vary in tasks and could range from working with the pipe crew installing underground utilities, to installing septic systems ...

Glidden Excavating & Paving Inc

Excavator Operator

Gorham, ME · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

We are currently seeking an experienced excavator operator to join us. As a member of our team, you will be responsible for ensuring that our construction projects are completed safely, efficiently ...

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Experience Excavator Operator information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do experience excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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 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 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 is the career path for excavator operators?

Excavator operators can advance their careers by gaining experience, obtaining additional certifications, and learning new equipment or techniques. They may progress to supervisory roles, equipment management, or specialized construction positions, often requiring ongoing training and skill development.

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.

Are excavator operators in high demand?

Excavator operators are in high demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and the need for skilled heavy equipment operators. Employment prospects are strong for those with proper certifications, experience, and knowledge of equipment maintenance and safety protocols.

Is Excavator Operator a stressful job?

Excavator operators often work in physically demanding environments that require attention to safety and precision, which can contribute to stress. Factors such as tight deadlines, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols may also impact stress levels, but proper training and experience help manage these challenges effectively.

What is the top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an experienced excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on location, level of experience, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled operators with certifications and specialized equipment knowledge tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand regions or large-scale construction projects.

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 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

W. Gardner LLC

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

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 underground utilities and be proficient in operating an excavator. *DO NOT APPLY if you don't have any experience*.
Responsibilities:
  • Operate excavator to dig trenches and excavate areas for pipe installation
  • Ensure safety of crew members and equipment on job site
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment
  • Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors
  • Follow all safety procedures and regulations
  • Required to perform physical activities on any crew within the company involving installation of new and existing utilities, physical labor, assisting others in completing job requirements, may operate a variety of equipment including hand and power tools, may clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of excavations, clean up rubble and debris
Requirements:
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience operating an excavator
  • Experience working with pipe crews and underground utilities
  • Must have experience working and operating the excavator on a pipe crew.

Essential Functions of the Job:
  • Working hours are 7:00 am till 5:30 pm Monday through Friday (subject to change due to project demands, weather, etc.), with a 30-minute lunch break. Must be willing to work overtime, standby, and some weekends.
  • The job may entail heavy physical labor, which requires strength and agility. Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 lbs.
  • You may be required to climb, kneel, crouch, twist, lift, carry, drag, balance, push, and/or pull.
  • All projects are outdoors, in all weather and temperature extremes, and regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. Occasionally, the noise level in the work environment is loud.
  • Safety equipment, or PPE, is always required, such as hard hats, safety vest, safety glasses, appropriate footwear, and seat belts. (A back support brace can be issued upon request)
  • Must have good manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and balance.
  • Must be able to read and understand warning signs and labels on a construction site and interpret plans, drawings, written instructions, and specifications.
  • Must be capable of working as a member of a team

Minimum Requirements:
  • Proof of work eligibility
  • Transportation to and from the Job Site
  • Required to pass Pre-Employment Drug Test
  • Required to pass Background Check
  • Must have a clean driving record

Benefits:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Plans after 60 days of employment
  • 401K with matching contributions after 60 days of employment
  • Paid Time off and Holiday after 90 days of employment
  • Disability and Life Insurance after 60 days of employment

If you meet the above requirements and are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your resume for consideration.

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