1

Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Backhoe Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Communicate professionally with customers, office staff, and coworkers Qualifications Qualifications - Do You Have What it Takes? * 1+ years experience operating a mini excavator required

Backhoe Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Communicate professionally with customers, office staff, and coworkers Qualifications - Do You Have What it Takes? * 1+ years experience operating a mini excavator required * Underground residential ...

Backhoe Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Communicate professionally with customers, office staff, and coworkers Qualifications Qualifications - Do You Have What it Takes? * 1+ years experience operating a mini excavator required

Backhoe Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Communicate professionally with customers, office staff, and coworkers Qualifications Qualifications - Do You Have What it Takes? * 1+ years experience operating a mini excavator required

Operator I Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Pay Rate ... One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required. * One (1+) plus ...

Operator I Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Pay Rate ... One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required. * One (1+) plus ...

Showing results 21-40

Mini Excavator Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator operator in Colorado is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $30.10 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 Colorado?

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

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

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Mini Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Mini Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Mini Excavator Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,211 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

CDL Operator II - Utility Services

SiteWise

Henderson, CO • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction company that serves the Electric, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications industries.  We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services, including repair, replacement, maintenance, and installation of natural gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure through our operating subsidiaries: SiteWise, Kelly Cable, Riley Brothers, and Superior Pipeline Services.

Position Title: Operator II (Mini Excavator)

Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Pay Rate: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour DOE

Classification: Non-Exempt

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

The Operator II is a valued member of a 2–4-person construction crew, has full knowledge of operations, and is an expert in heavy equipment. Operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner as required for placing utilities to new and existing residential homes, multifamily and commercial units. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers, backhoes, loaders, and other pieces of equipment. (A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required for this position). 

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Operates, maneuvers, navigates, or drives vehicles or mechanized equipment or passenger vehicles. 
  • Uses either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes. 
  • Inspects equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
  • Uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards and communicates abnormal working conditions to appropriate parties. 
  • Provides mid-level laborer functions including hand digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, equipment operations, loading materials, etc. on various safety sensitive utility construction sites. 
  • Proficient with utility print and map reading. 
  • Has performed at least 6 months of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini); knows all safety regulations with basic operating skills.
  • Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs. 
  • Exposes underground utilities manually. 
  • Utilizes defensive driving practices.
  • Operates truck in a manner that ensures compliance with all applicable company, state and federal safety regulations.
  • Follows required company and DOT reporting procedures.
  • Maintains paperwork during the day including DVIR and driver’s log book.
  • Ensures the truck has current licenses, tags, permits, and proof of insurance.
  • Clean, Grease, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork. 
  • Working alongside with another team member taking hand signals to safely excavate a site.
  • Follows 811 digging laws and company’s safe digging practices.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Success Factors:

  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions. 
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs multiple times during a work shift. 
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling.
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions. 
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers. 
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy. 
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports. 
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills. 

Experience and Education:

  • One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required. 
  • One (1+) plus years of experience digging and working around underground utilities is required. 
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in dry utilities preferred. 
  • Three (3+) plus years’ experience in a construction role is required.
  • Class A CDL Required. 
  • Experience reading basic prints and Underground Facility Location Sketch is preferred. 
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis. 

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:

  • Maintain valid Commercial Driver’s License CDL Class A. 
  • Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR)background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen. 

Notes:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.