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Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roto-Rooter

Excavator Operator

Livermore, CA · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with ...

APTIM

Equipment Operator

Jackson, CA · On-site

$40/hr

Heavy Equipment Operators will be paid federal prevailing wage for work performed. Project ... Use of Sm- to Med-sized excavation equipment (mini-excavators, loaders, skid steers, etc) * Use of ...

Schnabel

Equipment Operator

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$37.46 - $48/hr

You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ... Work with drill operators to load and unload casing and other tooling as necessary. * Follow all of ...

Schnabel

Equipment Operator

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$37.46 - $48/hr

You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ... Work with drill operators to load and unload casing and other tooling as necessary. * Follow all of ...

Schnabel

Equipment Operator

Walnut Creek, CA

You will operate skid steers, mini-excavators, grout plants, pumps, silos, and other equipment. As ... Work with drill operators to load and unload casing and other tooling as necessary. * Follow all of ...

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Mini Excavator Operator information

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$13

$25

$41

How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator operator in California is $25.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $28.22 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 California?

The most popular types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Mini Excavator Operator jobs in California?

For Mini Excavator Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mini Excavator Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mini Excavator Operator jobs in California are:

Mini Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,695 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Livermore, CA

Roto-Rooter Services Company
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

202nd of 283 rated repair and maintenance companies

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers

Learn more about Roto-Rooter Services Companyexternal

$17 - $24/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.

If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.

We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements at our East Bay branch, located in Livermore, CA.  The average earnings for this position are between $75,000-$100,000, depending on experience. 


  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.

  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.

Service technicians are paid an hourly rate of $17.00 to $24.00 during training. After training, they are paid an hourly rate at or above the minimum wage for all hours worked. The hourly pay rate may vary, depending on whether the pay is for base pay paid at the employee’s base hourly rate (minimum wage), or administrative pay for administrative hours worked (between minimum wage and $77.92) . Service technicians also have the potential to earn commissions at the rate of 16-22% of revenue depending on the revenue category.  Commissions ranging from $10 to $139 can also be earned for selling products and treatments.


At Roto-Rooter we believe our greatest investment is in our employees.  We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That’s why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:

  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout our 86 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are a great fit at our company.


We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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