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Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI

Phillips

Mini Excavator Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Mini Excavator Operator The Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating mini excavators ... Participate in safety meetings and training sessions as required. * Perform additional tasks as ...

Phillips, Inc.

Mini Excavator Operator

Detroit, MI

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

The Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating mini excavators and other related ... Participate in safety meetings and training sessions as required. Perform additional tasks as ...

Phillips, Inc.

Mini Excavator Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

The Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating mini excavators and other related ... machinery in confined spaces or on challenging terrains. The operator will work closely with the ...

Cabela's

Fly Fishing Outfitter

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$15 - $17.25/hr

The Sales Outfitter performs various Selling / Customer Service activities, to include greeting and acknowledging all customers in a prompt and friendly manner, handling merchandise with care ...

Bass Pro Shops

Fly Fishing Outfitter

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

The Sales Outfitter performs various Selling / Customer Service activities, to include greeting and acknowledging all customers in a prompt and friendly manner, handling merchandise with care ...

Bass Pro Shops

Fly Fishing Outfitter

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $16.25/hr

The Sales Outfitter performs various Selling / Customer Service activities, to include greeting and acknowledging all customers in a prompt and friendly manner, handling merchandise with care ...

Cabela's

Fly Fishing Outfitter

Lake Orion, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

Sales Outfitter The Sales Outfitter performs various Selling / Customer Service activities, to include greeting and acknowledging all customers in a prompt and friendly manner, handling merchandise ...

PURIS

Operator / Excavator - 35,000 lbs.

Detroit, MI · On-site

The PURIS Family of Companies provide trenchless renewal solutions in the water, wastewater, and ... excavation, and equipment setup. The operator works closely with the Pipe Bursting Supervisor and ...

Duke's

HYDRO EXCAVATION TRUCK OPERATOR

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Duke's is looking for a Hydro Excavation Truck Operator to join our Plymouth, MI-based crew! As the ... This position may require travel in and out of state based on project location. Business travel ...

Aampower

Machine Operator

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$18.50/hr

They work as a team to produce high quality components, catch errors, and resolve issues on the fly ... Interact with the Quality Control module to accurately fill out information in the AHMC Computer ...

Bricco Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Oak Park, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Bricco Excavating Co, LLC is seeking to hire a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our excavating team in the Oak Park, MI region. About Bricco Excavating Co, LLC Who is Bricco Excavating Co, LLC.

Bricco Excavating

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Utility Experience

Detroit, MI · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Bricco Excavating Co, LLC is seeking to hire a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our excavating team in the Oak Park, MI region. About Bricco Excavating Co, LLC Who is Bricco Excavating Co, LLC.

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All JobsFly In Fly Out Excavator Operator JobsFly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI

Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$13

$25

$41

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for fly in fly out excavator operator in Detroit, MI is $25.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $28.32 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 Detroit, MI?

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

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

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

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,862 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Mini Excavator Operator

Phillips

Detroit, MI • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Phillips 66 rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Mini Excavator Operator

The Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating mini excavators and other related equipment to execute various construction and earthwork projects. This role requires precision, adherence to safety standards, and the ability to operate machinery in confined spaces or on challenging terrains. The operator will work closely with the project team to ensure timely and efficient completion of tasks while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Operate mini excavators and other compact construction equipment for various projects, including but not limited to digging, lifting, and grading.
  • Interpret project plans and specifications to determine the layout for excavation and materials needed for the project.
  • Perform daily safety and maintenance checks on mini excavators and related equipment, reporting any malfunctions or issues to the supervisor immediately.
  • Collaborate with other construction team members to ensure tasks are completed in accordance with project timelines and specifications.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and procedures set forth by the company and OSHA, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Adjust methods of operation for various conditions and materials to avoid damaging utilities or property.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors and co-workers to coordinate tasks and resolve issues on the job site.
  • Maintain accurate records of equipment usage, maintenance activities, and work performed.
  • Participate in safety meetings and training sessions as required.
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor, which may include labor-intensive work when not operating machinery.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements:

  • Proven experience operating mini excavators and other compact construction equipment.
  • Strong understanding of construction procedures and safety measures.
  • Ability to read and understand project plans, diagrams, and operator manuals.
  • Excellent coordination and mechanical skills.
  • Effective communication abilities.
  • Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in operating mini excavators and similar equipment in a construction environment.
  • Valid operator certification and driver's license preferred.
  • Familiarity with GPS-guided equipment is a plus.

Candidates that accept an offer of employment are required to undergo and successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination. This exam is essential to ensure that all potential employees meet the necessary health and fitness standards for the role. The examination includes a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a certified medical professional to assess overall physical health, identify any potential medical conditions that could interfere with job performance, and verify that the candidate is capable of safely performing the essential duties of the position. Completion and clearance of this physical are mandatory steps in the hiring process.

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