ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mini Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SICE

MINI EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Mini Excavator Operator will be responsible for safely and effectively operating mini excavators (compact excavators) for installation, maintenance, and repair of ITS systems ...

NextGen Global Resources

Be Seen First

Mini Excavator Operator

Smithfield, VA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

The Mini Excavator Operator will work alongside the Foreman and field crew to safely and efficiently complete projects according to customer specifications, quality standards, and schedules.

SICE INC

MINI EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Mini Excavator Operator will be responsible for safely and effectively operating mini excavators (compact excavators) for installation, maintenance, and repair of ITS systems ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsConstruction JobsGeneral Construction JobsExcavator Operator JobsMini Excavator Operator Jobs

Mini Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 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.
More about Mini Excavator Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Mini Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Mini Excavator Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Mini Excavator Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mini Excavator Operator jobs include:

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

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

Mini Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Mini Excavator Operator (Commercial Construction)

Facility Innovations Group

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

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.

Apply