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Mini Excavator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Landscape Crew Member

Crosby, MN · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

Mini excavator * Hardscape * Wall stone * Pavers * Installation Must * Be able to lift 70 ILBS. * Have a Valid Drivers license Company Description Outdoor Living Landscapes is a company with over 16 ...

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Positions include experienced backhoe operators, mini excavator operators, and utility locators supporting fiber installation projects. This role requires weekly travel, with crews departing Monday ...

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

Positions include experienced backhoe operators, mini excavator operators, and utility locators supporting fiber installation projects. This role requires weekly travel, with crews departing Monday ...

You'll operate bobcats and mini excavators, identify and sort metals, and process material. You'll also maintain a strong focus on safe, efficient production and proper equipment upkeep. Key ...

You'll operate bobcats and mini excavators, identify and sort metals, and process material. You'll also maintain a strong focus on safe, efficient production and proper equipment upkeep. Key ...

You'll operate bobcats and mini excavators, identify and sort metals, and process material. You'll also maintain a strong focus on safe, efficient production and proper equipment upkeep. Key ...

Proficient in using mini-excavators, trenchers, and concrete forming tools. * Working knowledge of NEC , electrical conduit installation, and wiring practices. * Must possess or be able to obtain the ...

Proficient in using mini-excavators, trenchers, and concrete forming tools. * Working knowledge of NEC , electrical conduit installation, and wiring practices. * Must possess or be able to obtain the ...

Proficient in using mini-excavators, trenchers, and concrete forming tools. * Working knowledge of NEC , electrical conduit installation, and wiring practices. * Must possess or be able to obtain the ...

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Mini Excavator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do mini excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator in Minnesota is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $28.03 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, landscaping, and utility projects such as trenching, digging foundations, installing pipes, grading, and site preparation. They are suitable for small to medium-sized tasks in confined spaces and often require operator certification and familiarity with controls and safety procedures.
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Mini Excavator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Mini Excavator job openings:
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,288 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator, Utility Construction

Push Inc

Redwood Falls, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating assigned equipment used to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water facilities. This position will assist with all aspects of the job requiring operation of both smaller and larger scale heavy equipment along with possible or occasional basic labor duties. Must have field experience digging with heavy equipment preferably around utilities in rural and urban areas, experience reading prints and schematics and the ability to train and mentor other team members.

PUSH, Inc. is a privately owned premier communications and power utility contractor headquartered in Rice Lake, WI. who has been providing telecom infrastructure to connect people globally for 50 years through its dedicated team members who have integrity and continually strive for excellence.

Physical and Environmental Factors:

  • Ability to work outdoors and to work in all types of outdoor weather.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry, and lift as needed.
  • Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet, and limbs in performing skilled movement.
  • Ability to travel and be away from home for extended periods of time.
  • 100% Field.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

  • Field experience with digging operations in rural and urban areas around utilities.
  • Responsible for daily maintenance on construction equipment used.
  • Ability to operate equipment, including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Successfully excavate around existing utilities.
  • Provide training and assistance to co-workers learning to be operators.
  • Perform routine labor (potholing, set-up of equipment, conduit/duct/cable placement, set pedestals) as required.
  • Drive tow vehicle hauling equipment to and around job site.
  • Assist with all aspects of the job including basic labor responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Work Experience: This person should have demonstrated field experience with digging operations around utilities in rural and urban areas. Must have experience operating utility construction equipment including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Industry Knowledge: General knowledge of utility construction procedures, including print reading. In addition, have knowledge of or be familiar with all procedures and associated tools and equipment necessary to install underground utilities in the most effective, safe, and profitable manner.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver’s License, Class A CDL preferred.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screenings.
  • Demonstrated field experience operating backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe around utilities.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Ability to maintain equipment and hand tools.
  • Ability to read, comprehend and carry out instructions.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Abide all company and manufacturer safety procedures and industry safety standards, in addition to attending mandatory safety meetings.

Benefits of Joining the PUSH Team:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability – Industry Leading!
  • Free Teladoc, No-Cost Care Options
  • 401K with Company Match up to 3%
  • Competitive pay, weekly checks
  • Paid PTO and Holidays
  • Bonus Potential
  • Training & Advancement Opportunities
  • Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • In-house CDL Program
  • Unlimited Referral Bonus Program
  • And Much More!

Push, Inc is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEOC/M/F/D/V)