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Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Labourer - Telecom Construction

Milton, ON · On-site

$29.99 - $39.40/hr

Experience operating and maintaining mini excavators, skid steers and backhoes * Strong time management skills with the ability to attend to a broad range of activities * Technically adept with a ...

Excavate, backfill, and compact subgrade (e.g. move and level earth using shovels and rakes, operate pneumatic tampers). * Assist with operating and supporting smallequipment tasks, including: * Mini ...

Excavate, backfill, and compact subgrade (e.g. move and level earth using shovels and rakes, operate pneumatic tampers). * Assist with operating and supporting smallequipment tasks, including: * Mini ...

... operating dump trucks and transporting heavy equipment using tag-along trailers to and from job ... Ability to operate heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, mini excavator) is an asset * Flexibility to ...

... operating dump trucks and transporting heavy equipment using tag-along trailers to and from job ... Ability to operate heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, mini excavator) is an asset * Flexibility to ...

... operating dump trucks and transporting heavy equipment using tag-along trailers to and from job ... Ability to operate heavy equipment (e.g., skid steer, mini excavator) is an asset * Flexibility to ...

Operating equipment such as skid steers, mini excavators, compactors, and stone saws (as trained or certified) * Manual labour involving landscape construction materials * Planting, transplanting ...

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Mini Excavator Operator information

See Ontario salary details

$14

$22

$27

How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator operator in Ontario is $22.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $23.32 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 popular job titles related to Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Ontario?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Mini Excavator Operator job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,940 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

HI-RAIL EXCAVATOR OPERATOR - Mini Tie Gang

RailWorks

Scarborough, ON • On-site

CA$42.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 15 days ago


RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job ID: 20049 

Benefits Offering
  • Health & Dental Benefits 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Room for advancement provided 
Compensation

Unionised

Salary Range: $42.54

Position Summary

Reporting to the Track Supervisor and Track Foreman, the Mini Tie Gang Hi-Rail Excavator Operator operates equipment in a safe manner to perform maintenance and construction activities in the repair and rebuilding of track structure. Responsible for successfully completing day-to-day tasks by meeting or exceeding corporate goals for safety, quality, profitability and schedule, resulting in extreme customer satisfaction. The Mini Tie Gang Operator will primarily be engaged in the installation of track ties throughout territories maintained by PNR RailWorks Inc. When not installing ties, the Operator may be responsible for various other Track Maintenance activities, as required.

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties

Operates hi-rail excavator with ground crew to support the installation and repair of track ties. When not installing ties, may support alone or with ground crew the correction and repair of various track maintenance initiatives, including replacement of rail, special track components, brushcutting, ditching, etc.

Good mechanical skills with an ability to make minor repairs, perform regular maintenance including oil changes in specific service hour increments and be familiar with the overall operation of excavators with a focus on safety.

Operates equipment in a safe and efficient manner in accordance with regulations, policies and procedures of both PNR and the customer.

Performs equipment safety checks and regular cleanliness activities to keep a tidy work place.

Takes actions to avoid potential hazards and obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, and falling objects.

Studies instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements.

Notifies Supervisor and Mechanics immediately and accurately for any repairs required.

Operate a vehicle to and from job site including fueling equipment regularly to be prepared for upcoming work.

Keeps records of material and equipment usage and problems encountered.

Able to adjust schedule and adapt to various shift times and locations based on operational requirements. Employee must remain as flexible for shifts as possible.

Operate a vehicle to and from job site including fueling equipment regularly to be prepared for upcoming work.

Keeps records of material and equipment usage and problems encountered.

Able to adjust schedule and adapt to various shift times and locations based on operational requirements. Employee must remain as flexible for shifts as possible.

Experience or ability to become experienced and qualified in various pieces of equipment that the company deems necessary

Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

During downtime and winter months, Operators may operate local snow-fighting equipment, or be folded into local Track Maintenance or Track Protection resource

Required Skills and Qualifications

Excavator operating experience.

A valid full class G drivers license

Ability to apply common sense understanding in order to carry out various activities.

Experience using hand tools, power tools and hydraulic equipment.

Knowledge of and ability to adhere to safety requirements and procedures.

Ability to read and understand construction and maintenance specifications.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

English language (written and spoken) required

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
  • Works at construction sites 
  • Uses hands to handle and control materials, tools and vehicle controls 
  • Sits for long periods of time in a closed vehicle 
  • Uses repetitive motions 
  • Uses close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision and depth perception 
  • Moves or lifts heavy equipment and objects up to 50 pounds 
  • Uses eye-hand-foot coordination 
  • Exposed to moving mechanical parts 
  • Exposed to harsh weather conditions including very hot and very cold weather 
  • Exposed to loud noise 
Company Overview

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned. 

RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with PNR RailWorks without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other characteristics protected by law.

PNR RailWorks is committed to fostering an equitable, accessible, and inclusive workplace. As such, PNR RailWorks will ensure reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities throughout the hiring process, including the interview. If selected for an interview, requests for accommodation can be confidentially made to a member of the recruitment team who will arrange in advance for reasonable and appropriate accommodation for fair and equitable assessment throughout the process.


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