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Internship Excavator Owner Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Dickinson, ND · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

As an Excavator Operator, you will be an integral member of the Baranko Brothers team, responsible ... Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota, Baranko Companies is a family-owned ...

Excavator Operator

Dickinson, ND · On-site

$42 - $48/hr

As an Excavator Operator, you will be an integral member of the Baranko Brothers team, responsible ... Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota, Baranko Companies is a family-owned ...

Apply Early

Lead Plumbing Excavator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Plumbing Excavator Operator Dayton, OH, USA Full Time Health insurance, a 401(k) plan with a ... Family-owned and operated, we pride ourselves on meeting our customer's needs and strive to be in ...

Excavator Operator

Dickinson, ND · On-site

$42 - $48/hr

As an Excavator Operator, you will be an integral member of the Baranko Brothers team, responsible ... Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota, Baranko Companies is a family-owned ...

Excavator Operator

Dickinson, ND · On-site

$21.25 - $28.25/hr

As an Excavator Operator, you will be an integral member of the Baranko Brothers team, responsible ... Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Dickinson, North Dakota, Baranko Companies is a family-owned ...

350 Excavator Operator - Excavation

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

We are a 100% employee-owned organization, fostering a strong team atmosphere where everyone shares ... Excavator Operator Job Summary: The Excavator Operator operates or tends machinery equipped with ...

Excavator Operator

Bristol, PA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

350 Excavator Operator - Excavation

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

We are a 100% employee-owned organization, fostering a strong team atmosphere where everyone shares ... Excavator Operator Job Summary: The Excavator Operator operates or tends machinery equipped with ...

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Excavator Operator

Newark, DE

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Excavator Operator

Bristol, PA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

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Internship Excavator Owner Operator information

See salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do internship excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship excavator owner operator in the United States is $24.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Internship Excavator Owner Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectInternship Excavator Owner OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsLimited or no certifications; may require a valid driver’s licenseTypically requires OSHA certification and operator licenses
Work EnvironmentOn-site construction projects, often self-directedConstruction sites, rental companies, or contractors
Employer UsageUsually independent or in training programsEmployed by construction firms or subcontractors

Internship Excavator Owner Operators are often in training or gaining experience, with limited certifications, working independently or under supervision. Excavator Operators are experienced professionals with certifications, working in established construction environments. The main difference lies in experience level, certification, and employment status.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Excavator Owner Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Excavator Owner Operator, you need a basic understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a valid equipment operator's license or certification. Familiarity with excavator controls, maintenance procedures, and GPS or telematics systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a commitment to safety help set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and productive operation on construction or excavation sites.

What is an Internship Excavator Owner Operator?

An Internship Excavator Owner Operator is an individual who owns and operates an excavator, typically participating in a structured internship program to gain hands-on experience in operating heavy machinery within the construction or earthmoving industry. This role allows interns to develop practical skills in equipment handling, safety procedures, and site operations while working under the supervision of experienced professionals. The internship may also help individuals fulfill educational or licensing requirements and prepare them for a career as a professional excavator operator.

How to get experience as an Excavator Operator?

To gain experience as an excavator operator, individuals typically start by completing a training program or apprenticeship that covers equipment operation and safety procedures. Hands-on practice with supervision, obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA or NCCCO, and working as a laborer or apprentice on construction sites help build skills and experience in operating excavators effectively.

Is owning an excavator profitable?

Owning an excavator as an owner-operator can be profitable if there is consistent demand for excavation services, and the operator manages costs such as maintenance, fuel, and insurance effectively. Profitability depends on factors like project volume, equipment efficiency, and market rates, making it essential to have strong business skills and industry knowledge.

What are some common challenges faced by internship excavator owner operators, and how can they be addressed?

Internship excavator owner operators often face challenges such as mastering equipment controls, managing job site safety, and learning to read site plans accurately. As interns, balancing equipment handling with following strict safety protocols can be demanding, especially in busy or unfamiliar environments. Teamwork is essential, as operators frequently collaborate with supervisors, ground crew, and other machinery operators. Seeking guidance from experienced mentors, participating in safety briefings, and asking questions can help new operators overcome these challenges and build confidence on the job.

Are excavator operators in demand?

Excavator operators are in demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and the need for skilled heavy equipment operators. Experience with equipment maintenance, safety certifications, and operating various types of excavators can improve job prospects in this field.
What cities are hiring for Internship Excavator Owner Operator jobs? Cities with the most Internship Excavator Owner Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs? The most popular types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Excavator Owner Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Excavator Owner Operator jobs include:
Utility Excavator Operator

Utility Excavator Operator

Valenti-Held Contractor/Developer, Inc.

Whitestown, IN • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Be an early applicant


Job description

Job Title: Utility Excavator Operator

Location: Whitestown, IN

Job Type: Full-time

Company Overview:

At Valenti-Held, we are a leading player in site development, known for our commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. As an employee-owned company, we believe in investing in our people and providing opportunities for long-term career growth. We’re currently looking to add experienced Utility Excavator Operators to support our underground utility crews on a variety of site development projects.

If you have experience operating excavators, dozers, skid steers, and other heavy equipment in underground utility installation, we want to talk to you! Join our team and become part of a company that values hard work, expertise, and a safe, productive environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Utility Excavator Operation: Operate excavators to dig trenches and excavations for storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and water line installation.

Trenching & Backfill: Perform precise trenching, bedding, and backfilling in accordance with project specifications and grade requirements.

Pipe Installation Support: Work closely with pipe crews to place and support underground utilities safely and accurately.

Grade Control: Maintain line, grade, and slope using laser, GPS, or other grade-control systems as required.

Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily inspections and ensure safe, proper operation of excavators and related equipment.

Site Safety: Follow all company safety policies, including trench safety, utility locating, and excavation standards.

Collaboration: Coordinate with foremen and crew members to complete work efficiently and on schedule.

Qualifications:

Experience: Proven experience operating excavators in underground utility or site development work preferred.

Equipment Knowledge: Familiarity with excavators, skid steers, loaders, and other construction equipment.

Physical Requirements: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and work in varying weather conditions.

Safety-Oriented: Strong commitment to jobsite safety and safe excavation practices.

Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.

Valid Driver’s License: Reliable transportation to and from job sites required.

Pre-Employment Screening: Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and physical examination.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for you and your family

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Health Savings Account (HSA)

• Employer-Paid Life Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan

• 401(k) Company Match

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – company-funded retirement benefit and employee ownership

• Paid Time Off (PTO) – paid vacation and holidays

• Referral Program

• Employee-Owned Company

Why Join Us?

At Valenti-Held, we are more than just a construction company—we are an employee-owned organization. You’ll have the opportunity to build a long-term career, grow your skills, and share in the success of the company. If you’re an experienced Utility Excavator Operator looking for your next opportunity, apply today and join our team!