ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Haydon Companies

Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

The mobile equipment operator, should be proficient in at least one of the following; loader, compressors, derricks, mini-excavator, skid steer, shovels, water buffalo, forklift, water truck, move ...

ADB

Travel Directional Drill Operator

Phoenix, AZ

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

Sorensen Companies (SCI)

Equipment Operator

Mesa, AZ

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Experience using utility locating equipment and operating asphalt rollers, skid steers, backhoes, mini excavators, vacuum trucks, directional bore machines, or similar construction equipment. Skills ...

Career Search

Directional Drill Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

The Directional Drill Operator is responsible for directional drill operation, reading prints and ... Familiarity with mini excavator and skid steer is preferred. * Ensure that proper safety and ...

Refined Gardens

Landscape Construction Foreman

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Operating and maintaining construction equipment (skid steers, mini excavators, etc.) * Tracking job progress and documenting work with our app-based system What We're Looking For * Experience: 2+ ...

Staffing Network

EquipmentAssociate

Phoenix, AZ

Must know how to operate forklifts, boom lifts, and scissor lifts along with misc dirt equipment (mini excavators, skid steers, etc) operating on rental lot only * Check equipment for damage, hours ...

Staffing Network

EquipmentAssociate

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Must know how to operate forklifts, boom lifts, and scissor lifts along with misc dirt equipment (mini excavators, skid steers, etc) operating on rental lot only * Check equipment for damage, hours ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMini Excavator Operator JobsMini Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona

Mini Excavator Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator operator in Arizona is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's the going rate for an Excavator Operator?

The average hourly rate for a Mini Excavator Operator ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating various machinery may command higher wages, especially in high-demand regions or for specialized tasks.

What is a Mini Excavator Operator job?

A Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating a small excavator to dig, move, and grade earth on construction sites. They work in various industries, including construction, landscaping, and utilities. Operators must have experience maneuvering the equipment safely, understanding job site plans, and performing basic maintenance. Attention to safety protocols is essential to prevent accidents and damage. Some positions may require certification or specific training depending on the employer and location.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The hourly rate for operating a mini excavator typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on experience, location, and job complexity. Operators with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher wages, and rates can vary based on the work environment and project duration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Mini Excavator Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mini Excavator Operator, you need practical experience in operating heavy equipment, a solid understanding of safety protocols, and typically a valid operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with controls and attachments of mini excavators, as well as routine maintenance procedures, is essential. Attention to detail, communication skills, and a strong sense of responsibility are key soft skills that help operators work effectively within teams and on diverse job sites. These abilities ensure efficient, precise, and safe operation, minimizing risks and maximizing project productivity.

What does a typical day look like for a Mini Excavator Operator on a construction site?

A typical day for a Mini Excavator Operator involves performing safety checks on equipment, maneuvering the machine in tight workspaces, and completing tasks such as trenching, grading, or digging based on project needs. Operators coordinate closely with site supervisors and other crew members to understand job requirements and adjust to changing site conditions. Daily responsibilities also include monitoring equipment performance and conducting minor maintenance when necessary. This role requires adaptability, as project priorities may shift throughout the day, but it offers a dynamic environment where teamwork and technical skill are valued.

How much can I make with a mini excavator?

Mini excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or landscaping can earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for heavy equipment operators.

Are excavator operators in demand?

Excavator operators are in demand in the construction and infrastructure sectors, especially in regions with active development projects. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after, and employment opportunities tend to increase with ongoing construction activity and infrastructure improvements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona? For Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Mini Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Mini Excavator Operator job openings:
Mini Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator Operator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $50,702 per year, or $24.4 per hour.
Operator

Operator

Haydon Companies

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY
Equipment operators are responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment vehicles. The mobile equipment operator, should be proficient in at least one of the following; loader, compressors, derricks, mini-excavator, skid steer, shovels, water buffalo, forklift, water truck, move and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement and willing to train on additional pieces of equipment. Individuals must be able to operate mobile equipment in compliance with company policies and procedures, standard practices and safety regulations. May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Learn and follow safety regulations.
  • Wear required safety equipment including but not limited to hardhats, safety glasses, safety harness, ear plugs, dust masks and gloves.
  • Capable of doing repetitious arm, hand and leg motion
  • Stand or sit for considerable amounts of time.
  • Adjust handwheels and depress pedals to control attachments, such as skid steers, buckets, backhoes, mini-excavator or swing booms.
  • Start engines, move throttles, switches, or levers, or depress pedals to operate machines, such as bulldozers, trench excavators, road graders, or backhoes.
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
  • Load and/or move dirt, rocks, equipment, or other materials, using trucks, crawler tractors, power cranes, shovels, graders, or related equipment.
  • Check fuel supplies at sites to ensure adequate availability.
  • Keep records of material or equipment usage or problems encountered.
  • Repair and maintain equipment, making emergency adjustments or assisting with major repairs as necessary.
  • Understanding 811 locate tickets and the regulations associated with utility locates.
  • CDL preferred but not required.
  • Crane Operator Certified preferred but not required.

COMPETENCIES
To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
  • Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; develops realistic action plans.
  • Job Knowledge - Strong understanding of construction safety and OSHA requirements. Strong understanding of heavy machinery operation. Competent in required job skills and knowledge; exhibits ability to learn and apply new skills; keeps abreast of current developments; requires minimal supervision; displays understanding of how job relates to others.
  • Communications - Exhibits good listening and comprehension; keeps others adequately informed; selects and uses appropriate communication methods.
  • Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; gives and welcomes feedback; contributes to building a positive team spirit; puts success of team above own interests; able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; supports everyone's efforts to succeed.
  • Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; takes responsibility for own actions; keeps commitments; commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals.; completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.

QUALIFICATIONS The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and/or Experience
Requires a general educational knowledge normally acquired through a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). 1-2 years related operating experience and/or training; An Understanding of technical skills including: Controlling operations of equipment or systems; watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly; determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed on equipment. Understands and abides by all government processes and regulations. Requirements as a Safety-Sensitive position pre and post-employment screenings including but not limited to drug testing as outlined by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and motor vehicle record (MVR) background checks are required.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; Use hands to operate, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance. The employee is frequently required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision; distance vision; peripheral vision; depth perception; ability to adjust focus.
Benefits at OMNI Electric:
Health Options
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision
  • Critical Illness, Hospital, Accident
  • Short-Term / Long-Term Disability
  • Infertility Treatment Coverage

Worklife Balance
Professional Development
Teamwork / CamaraderieRetirement Planning
EEO Statement
Haydon Companies is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, military and veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by appliable law.

Apply