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Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC

Carolina Conduit Systems

Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Utilities Excavator Operator We are seeking a skilled Excavator Operator with experience in underground utility installation. This position involves operating excavators and loaders to perform trench ...

Free Fly Apparel

Content Creator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$119K/yr

... Free Fly brand to life across multiple platforms and formats. Working closely with the broader ... Operate camera and related production equipment on location and in studio, including lighting and ...

Free Fly Apparel

Content Creator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$117K/yr

... Free Fly brand to life across multiple platforms and formats. Working closely with the broader ... Operate camera and related production equipment on location and in studio, including lighting and ...

Bridges Staffing

Lead Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

... excavator. Attention earth-moving, fine-grade, heavy equipment operators living in the Charleston, SC, area! We have several lead operator openings for a large civil sitework company, and the ...

Bridges Staffing

Lead Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

... excavator. Attention earth-moving, fine-grade, heavy equipment operators living in the Charleston, SC, area! We have several lead operator openings for a large civil sitework company, and the ...

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All JobsFly In Fly Out Excavator Operator JobsFly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Charleston, SC

Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do fly in fly out excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for fly in fly out excavator operator in Charleston, SC is $24.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fly in fly out excavator operator?

A Fly In Fly Out (FIFO) Excavator Operator is a heavy equipment operator who typically works on remote mining or construction sites that are not close to major towns or cities. Instead of relocating, these workers are flown to the worksite for a set period (such as a week or two), then flown back home for a break. Their main responsibility is to operate excavators to move earth, rock, or other materials as part of site development, mining, or construction projects. The FIFO arrangement allows companies to access skilled labor for projects in isolated locations, while providing workers with blocks of time off between shifts. This role often requires flexibility, physical fitness, and the ability to work long hours in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fly in fly out excavator operator?

To thrive as a Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, a valid excavator ticket, and often a high-risk work license or relevant certifications. Familiarity with GPS machine guidance systems, safety protocols, and routine equipment maintenance is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability to remote environments, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, safety, and effective collaboration in demanding and isolated job sites.

What are the typical work schedules and living arrangements like for fly in fly out excavator operators?

FIFO Excavator Operators usually work on a rostered schedule, such as two weeks on site followed by one week off, though this can vary by employer and project location. While on site, operators commonly stay in company-provided accommodation, often referred to as 'camps,' which offer meals, laundry, and recreational facilities. The work environment is highly collaborative, with close interaction among other machine operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams. Adapting to the remote lifestyle and extended periods away from home are common challenges, but many operators value the competitive pay and extended time off between shifts.

What is the difference between Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator vs Mobile Plant Operator?

AspectFly In Fly Out Excavator OperatorMobile Plant Operator
CertificationsExcavator license, HR or MC licenseHR license, machinery operation certification
Work EnvironmentRemote sites, construction, miningConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure
Employer & IndustryMining companies, civil constructionMining, construction, infrastructure projects

Both roles often require similar certifications and work in remote or construction environments. The main difference is that Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operators specialize in operating excavators specifically, often working on remote projects, while Mobile Plant Operators may operate a variety of machinery. Both are essential in mining and construction industries, with overlapping skills but different equipment focus.

What are popular job titles related to Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator job openings:

Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,916 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Utilities Excavator Operator

Bridges Staffing

Charleston, SC • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Utility Excavator Operator Extraordinaire Wanted!

Are you ready to dig into an exciting career? Our local, employee-owned construction company is searching for a skilled Utility Excavator Operator to join our dynamic team!
What You'll Do:
  • Navigate the underground world of storm drain, sewer, and water utilities 
  • Grow within a company that thrives on upward mobility, hard work, and dedication
  • Dig around underground utilities with precision
  • Showcase your precision digging and grading skills with an excavator on a variety of commercial grading and utility projects
  • Learn to read blueprints and how to perform grading calculations with your Superintendent to meet or exceed production goals
  • Work with a team to complete projects on time

What We're Looking For:
  • A skilled heavy equipment operator with at least 5 years of seat time on an excavator or a dozer
  • 5 years or more of seat time on a track hoe, and digging around utilities
  • General site work knowledge, OSHA safety, PPE
  • A team player who is ready to commit to a great company, long-term
  • Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Why Join Us?
  • Competitive pay from $27-$30, based on your operating skills, site work knowledge, and experience
  • Be part of an employee-owned company where your success is our success!
  • Opportunity for upward mobility, raises, and skill development
  • Work with a passionate team that values your contribution
  • Health Insurance offered at 30 Days
  • Long-term permanent employment opportunity, with all of the bells and whistles!

Ready to Dig In? Apply now!