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Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Sollers Construction LLC.

$62K - $80K/yr

Previous experience operating bobcats, mini excavators, dump trucks, pipe layers, Underground ... utility work * Knowledge of flagging procedures for construction sites Salary and Benefits: The ...

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 ...

Sorensen Companies (SCI)

Equipment Operator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$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 ...

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+ ...

Career Search

Directional Drill Operator

Tucson, AZ

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+ ...

ADB

QA/QC Specialist

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 ...

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How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 is a mini excavator operator?

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 does a mini excavator operator do?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mini excavator operator?

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.

Do you need a license to operate a mini excavator?

In most regions, a mini excavator operator does not require a specific license, but employers often prefer or require certification in equipment operation and safety training. Some areas may have regulations that mandate operator certification or licensing, especially for commercial or heavy equipment use. It is important to check local laws and employer requirements before operating a mini excavator.

What is the hourly rate for a mini excavator operator?

The hourly rate for a mini excavator operator typically ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications may earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand for construction and excavation work.

What jobs can I do with a mini excavator?

Mini excavator operators can perform tasks such as trenching, digging foundations, landscaping, utility installation, and small-scale demolition. These machines are suitable for confined spaces and require knowledge of operating controls and safety procedures.

Where do mini excavator operators make the most money?

Mini excavator operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong construction industries, such as areas experiencing infrastructure development or urban expansion. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in commercial or industrial projects can also influence earning potential, regardless of location.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,702 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Mini Excavator Operator (Commercial Construction)

Facility Innovations Group

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title

Mini Excavator Operator

Job Description

We are hiring an experienced Mini Excavator Operator to perform excavation work on commercial construction projects, including convenience stores, fuel stations, retail centers, and parking lots. The ideal candidate has experience working in active commercial environments where precision, safety, and production are critical. This position requires operating around existing utilities, maintaining clean excavations, and working closely with field crews to keep projects on schedule. Responsibilities include safely operating mini excavators on commercial construction projects, excavating trenches for electrical, plumbing, drainage, and utility installations, performing precision excavation around existing underground utilities and structures, excavating, backfilling, and rough grading for concrete, asphalt, and site improvements, loading trucks and moving materials efficiently while minimizing disruption to active businesses, working closely with foremen and crews to complete daily production goals, reading and following site plans, layout markings, and utility locate information, performing daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance, maintaining clean, organized, and safe work areas throughout the project, following all OSHA safety requirements and company safety procedures, assisting with general labor duties when equipment is not in operation, completing daily equipment inspections and production documentation as required.

Requirements include 3+ years of experience operating mini excavators on commercial construction projects, experience working around underground utilities and utility locates, ability to perform precise excavation in confined or high-traffic areas, knowledge of trenching, grading, back-filling, and compaction practices, experience coordinating with concrete, paving, and other trade crews to keep commercial sites on schedule, strong understanding of job site safety and hazard awareness, ability to read construction plans and follow field layout, reliable transportation and valid driver's license, ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physical work in outdoor conditions (heat, cold, dust, and noise), strong communication skills with crews, foremen, and general contractors, dependable, self-motivated, and able to work as part of a team.

Nice to have includes OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification, First Aid / CPR Certification, Trench Safety / Competent Person Training, Silica Awareness training, experience operating skid steers, compact track loaders, and other compact equipment, experience working around active traffic and occupied commercial properties.

Schedule includes day shift (typical), some early starts, occasional overtime as project schedules require.

Benefits include compensation commensurate with experience, group health, dental, opportunities for advancement in a rapidly expanding solar division.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.

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