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Mini Excavator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

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Mini Excavator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do mini excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator 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?

A Mini Excavator job involves operating a compact excavator to dig, move, and grade earth on construction or landscaping sites. Operators use the machine to perform tasks like trenching, backfilling, and site preparation in confined or small areas. This role requires knowledge of safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and efficient machine handling. Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience or certification in heavy equipment operation.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a mini excavator operator?

A Mini Excavator Operator’s daily tasks typically include inspecting and maintaining their equipment, reading site plans, precisely digging, trenching, and backfilling as required by the job. Operators often work closely with supervisors, site managers, and other equipment operators to ensure each phase of a project is completed on schedule and within safety guidelines. In addition to hands-on operating duties, they may assist with site preparation, material moving, and routine documentation of work completed. This role offers variety each day and requires good communication and teamwork on busy worksites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the mini excavator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mini Excavator Operator, you need hands-on experience operating compact excavating equipment, strong mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of safety protocols, proficiency with controls specific to mini excavators, and, in some cases, possession of relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and clear communication help operators succeed on job sites and coordinate with team members effectively. These skills ensure safe, precise excavation work and smooth collaboration within construction or landscaping projects.

What jobs can I do with a mini excavator?

Mini excavators are used in various construction and landscaping jobs, including trenching, digging foundations, utility installation, grading, and small-scale demolition. They are suitable for work in confined spaces and require operator certification and safety training. These machines are commonly employed in residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects.

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Mini Excavator jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Mini Excavator job openings:

Infographic showing various Mini Excavator job openings in Arizona 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 $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

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Safely operate mini excavators on commercial construction projects

  • Excavate trenches for electrical, plumbing, drainage, and utility installations

  • Work closely with field crews to complete daily production goals


Job description


Full 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
  • Safely operate mini excavators on commercial construction projects
  • Excavate trenches for electrical, plumbing, drainage, and utility installations
  • Perform precision excavation around existing underground utilities and structures
  • Excavate, backfill, and rough grade for concrete, asphalt, and site improvements
  • Load trucks and move materials efficiently while minimizing disruption to active businesses
  • Work closely with foremen and crews to complete daily production goals
  • Read and follow site plans, layout markings, and utility locate information
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas throughout the project
  • Follow all OSHA safety requirements and company safety procedures
  • Assist with general labor duties when equipment is not in operation
  • Complete daily equipment inspections and production documentation as required

Requirements
• 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
• 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
• Day shift (typical)
• Some early starts
• Occasional overtime as project schedules require
Benefits
Benefits
• 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.