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Mini Excavator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Hunter Recruitment Advisors

Excavator Operator

Loudon, TN · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Operate mini and full-size excavators for residential plumbing projects. * Working on a 2-3 man slab crew. * Reading blueprints. * Excavate for sewer line, water service, and drain installations and ...

Kimbel Mechanical Systems

Experienced Plumber

Bartlett, TN · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Operate mini excavator to dig trenches to specific grades and project plans * Be able to dig around buried utilities * Conduct pre-operation equipment inspections and take pictures of locates along ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Locator

Nashville, TN

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Nashville, TN

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II

Nashville, TN

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Skilled Labor

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Occasional operation of small equipment such as skid steers, mini excavators, rollers and/or backhoe. Can periodically relieve equipment operator for breaks, and/or assist with equipment moves on ...

Pavement Restorations Inc.

Skilled Labor

Milan, TN · On-site

$13 - $16.25/hr

Occasional operation of small equipment such as skid steers, mini excavators, rollers and/or backhoe. Can periodically relieve equipment operator for breaks, and/or assist with equipment moves on ...

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Mini Excavator information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do mini excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator in Tennessee is $23.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $25.96 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 are popular job titles related to Mini Excavator jobs in Tennessee?

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

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

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

Mini Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator job openings in Tennessee 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 $49,381 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Fire Sprinkler Underground Utility Operator (Mini-Track)

State Systems

Memphis, TN • On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Fire Sprinkler Underground Utility Operator
(Mini Track Excavator Operator)
Position Summary
We are seeking a dependable and safety-focused Underground Utility Operator to support fire sprinkler underground installation projects. This position is responsible for operating mini track excavators and related equipment for trenching, underground fire line installation, hydrant leads, underground piping, and site utility work while maintaining productivity, quality, and safety standards.
The ideal candidate has experience working around underground utilities, understands grading and trench safety, and can work efficiently alongside underground fire protection crews.
Position Title
Fire Sprinkler Underground Utility Operator
Reports To
  • Underground Superintendent
Primary Responsibilities
Equipment Operation
  • Operate mini track excavators, trenchers, skid steers, compact equipment, and related underground utility equipment.
  • Perform trenching for underground fire sprinkler mains and service lines.
  • Assist with excavation for:
    • Underground fire mains
    • Hydrant installations
    • FDC supply lines
    • Valve pits
    • Thrust blocks.
    • Underground tie-ins
  • Safely load and unload equipment from trailers.
Underground Fire Protection Work
  • Assist crews with installation of:
    • Ductile iron pipe
    • C900 PVC
    • HDPE piping
    • Underground valves and fittings
  • Help maintain proper depth, slope, and alignment of underground piping.
  • Read and follow site utility plans, blueprints, and markings.
  • Assist with hydrostatic testing and flushing operations.
Safety & Compliance
  • Follow OSHA trenching and excavation safety standards.
  • Ensure trenches are properly protected and safe.
  • Identify and avoid existing underground utilities.
  • Participate in daily job site safety meetings.
  • Maintain clean and organized job sites.
Maintenance & Inspection
  • Perform daily equipment inspections.
  • Maintain equipment cleanliness and report maintenance needs.
  • Monitor fuel, fluids, tracks, hoses, and attachments.
  • Assist with minor equipment repairs and preventive maintenance.
Qualifications
Required
  • Experience operating mini excavators or compact track equipment for UG fire line installations - Minimum experience 5 years.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds regularly.
  • Basic understanding of excavation safety practices.
  • Ability to work overtime and occasional travel if required.
Preferred
  • Experience in underground fire line installation.
  • Experience with utility construction or site work.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
  • CDL license (preferred but not required).
  • Knowledge of NFPA underground fire service mains.
  • Experience reading construction drawings and utility maps.
Skills & Abilities
  • Strong attention to safety.
  • Good communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong work ethic and punctuality.
  • Mechanical aptitude for equipment operation and maintenance.
Compensation & Benefits
(Customize for your company)
  • Competitive hourly pay $32-40 per hour depending on experience.
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Company vehicle or equipment transportation assistance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off for Holidays and Vacation
  • 401(k)
  • Training and advancement opportunities
Performance Expectations
The Underground Utility Operator is expected to:
  • Operate equipment safely with minimal damage or downtime.
  • Maintain production schedules.
  • Support crew efficiency and teamwork.
  • Minimize utility strikes and rework.
  • Maintain high safety standards at all times.

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