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Mini Excavator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Basic level equipment operations that could include operating directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, etc. with constant guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets production ...

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 ...

CDL Equipment Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Experience operating bore machines, vacuum trucks, skid steers, backhoes, mini excavators, asphalt rollers, and similar construction equipment * Experience with Ditch Witch and Vermeer equipment ...

Mini Skid Steer * Excavator * Trencher * Tractor * Bush Hog Requirements: * Minimum 2 years of experience in landscape maintenance. Supervisory or team lead experience preferred. * Strong physical ...

Showing results 21-30

Mini Excavator information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do mini excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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.
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.

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

PURPOSE:
To assist in the preparatory and laborious work associated with the different departmental trades; pipe, asphalt, grading, curb and gutter, structures, traffic control, etc.
JOB DUTIES:
The ability to perform various laborious tasks requiring the use of hand, power or mechanical tools, I.E.; shovel, rake, pick hammer, tamp, saw, and other tools of the trade.
The ability to perform various laborious tasks requiring the handling of various construction materials, I.E.; rip, rap, fencing, pipe, concrete, asphalt, stone, traffic control devices, etc.
Follow all safety rules and keep work area and tools in clean and orderly condition.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
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 jobsite.
Demonstrate the ability to receive task training and willingness to learn new skills.
Understands the correct and safe start up and shutdown procedures of small equipment.
Operate small motor equipment, like generators, pumps and traffic control signs board devices.
KNOWLEDGE
Most general construction working positions do not require any specific background or knowledge, however the ability to read, writing, add, and subtract of whole numbers increases the opportunity to be upgraded or trained in other skills in the company that do require such knowledge.
EXPERIENCE
No previous experience is required, experience in a particular department would affect wage amount paid.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Position requires the ability to climb, to grasp, to push and pull, to bend at the waist, to walk and stand for long periods of time and to lift up to 50 pounds. Position requires the ability to express or exchange ideas by means of spoken word and receive detailed information through oral communications.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Disagreeable working conditions with continuous exposure to dust, dirt, seasonal temperature variances, wet cement, with several elements continuously present to the extent of being objectionable.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.