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Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC

Plumbing Solutions LLC

Mini Excavator Operator

Lexington, SC · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Mini Excavator Operator - We Will Train Plumbing Plumbing Solutions LLC is hiring a Mini Excavator ... We will train the right person in residential underground plumbing. If you know how to operate a ...

Blythe Construction

OPERATOR - EXCAVATOR

West Columbia, SC · On-site

$20.50 - $27/hr

Description United Infrastructure Group continues to be a leader in the transportation construction ... Role Overview: Excator Operator As an Excavator Operator at UIG, your primary function is to ...

Strack, Inc.

Pipe Layer-SC

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

Communicate with main line excavator operator to finish work & verify install * Responsible for ... Mindful in Everything. * Must be willing and able to travel out of town, and/or out of state to ...

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

Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator information

See Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC is $24.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $26.44 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 Columbia, SC?

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

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

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

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

Cities near Columbia, 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 Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $50,335 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Mini Excavator Operator

Plumbing Solutions LLC

Lexington, SC • On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Mini Excavator Operator – We Will Train Plumbing

Plumbing Solutions LLC is hiring a Mini Excavator Operator with construction experience who wants to build a career in a skilled trade.

You do not have to be a plumber. We will train the right person in residential underground plumbing.

If you know how to operate a mini excavator, understand how a construction site works, and are willing to learn, we can teach you the plumbing side of the job—including residential slab plumbing and sewer installation.

What You’ll Do

  • Operate a mini excavator safely and efficiently
  • Dig and install residential sewer lines
  • Perform underground plumbing work beneath concrete slabs
  • Set grade and maintain proper slope/fall
  • Install PVC drainage and sewer systems
  • Perform trenching, excavation, and backfilling
  • Read and follow basic construction plans and layouts
  • Measure and maintain accurate elevations
  • Identify potential issues before concrete is poured
  • Work as part of a production-focused residential construction crew
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area

What We’re Looking For

  • Previous mini excavator experience
  • Construction, excavation, or underground utility experience
  • Comfortable working outdoors in changing weather conditions
  • Ability to measure accurately and follow layouts and instructions
  • Strong work ethic and reliable attendance
  • Takes pride in doing the job correctly—not just getting it done
  • Willingness to learn plumbing and develop new skills
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a crew

Experience That’s a Plus — But Not Required

Experience in any of the following is valuable:

  • Plumbing
  • Septic installation
  • Water or sewer utilities
  • Sitework
  • Grading
  • Storm drainage
  • Irrigation
  • Excavation
  • Underground construction

We’ll Teach You the Trade

If you already know construction and equipment operation, you have a strong foundation.

Plumbing Solutions will train the right person in residential slab plumbing, underground drainage, and sewer installation. You’ll have the opportunity to turn your equipment and construction experience into a specialized skilled trade.

This is a hands-on production position for someone who wants to work, learn, and become highly skilled—not a position for someone looking to sit on the sidelines.

If you can operate the equipment, work hard, and are willing to learn plumbing, we want to talk to you.


Requirements:
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, bend, kneel, and work in various indoor and outdoor environments, including crawl spaces and attics.
  • Ability to troubleshoot issues and recommend effective solutions during installation and inspection phases.
  • Reliable, punctual, and capable of working independently or as part of a team to meet deadlines and maintain project quality.
  • Clear and respectful communication with supervisors, team members, and builders to ensure seamless project coordination.
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record; ability to travel between job sites across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia as needed.