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Mini Excavator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hands on experience with Mini Excavators * Strong industry experience in construction, landscaping or agriculture * Strong industry experience with equipment dealerships * Strong industry experience ...

Excavator Operator

OH · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

A construction company is seeking a Mini Excavator Operator to fill a full-time position. Job Requirements Qualified candidates must have at least 2 years experience operating a Mini Excavator for ...

Excavator Operator

Bristol, PA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job ...

Excavator Operator

Newark, DE · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job ...

Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job ...

New

Excavator Operator

Newark, DE

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job ...

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Mini Excavator information

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How much do mini excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator 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.

How much can I make with a mini excavator?

Mini excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and job complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or landscaping can earn higher wages, especially for specialized or long-term projects.

What is a Mini Excavator job?

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.

Is owning a mini excavator profitable?

Mini excavator operators can generate profit by providing excavation services for small-scale projects, landscaping, or construction work. Profitability depends on factors such as equipment costs, maintenance, job demand, and efficient scheduling. Proper skills and certifications can also improve job opportunities and income potential.

What's the average hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The average hourly rate for a mini excavator operator typically ranges from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Operators with specialized skills or certifications may command higher rates, especially for commercial or large-scale 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 projects in confined spaces and require operator certification and safety training. These machines are valuable for residential, commercial, and infrastructure work.
More about Mini Excavator jobs
What cities are hiring for Mini Excavator jobs? Cities with the most Mini Excavator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Mini Excavator jobs? The most popular types of Mini Excavator jobs are:
What states have the most Mini Excavator jobs? States with the most job openings for Mini Excavator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Mini Excavator Operator - Gas Construction

Digco Utility Construction LP

Houston, TX • On-site

$21.25 - $27.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

About Us

DIGCO  

DIGCO, a Quanta Services Inc (NYSE:PWR) company, based in Houston has been providing infrastructure construction and support services to the natural gas distribution market for over 20 years. Since its inception, DIGCO has seen Houston’s utility demands grow along with the changing needs of our customers. Due to these changes, DIGCO has grown into a full-service contractor delivering construction, maintenance and repair of steel and poly gas lines. In addition, DIGCO provides a suite of field service activities to utilities for turn on/off, meter change outs and service calls. 

Joining our team means being part of an organization that values drive and inclusion. We focus on career development and reward excellence, recognizing each team member's unique contributions. We're at the forefront of powering modern life. Discover how your skills and dedication can make a real difference to us. 

About this Role

DIGCO, a Quanta Services company, is seeking a skilled Mini Excavator Operator to support underground gas construction operations. This role is responsible for safely operating mini excavators and related equipment to support excavation, trenching, and utility installation activities.

The Mini Excavator Operator works closely with field crews to ensure excavation activities are completed safely, accurately, and efficiently in active utility and construction environments.

What You'll Do
  • Operate mini excavators and related equipment to support gas utility construction activities
  • Perform trenching, excavation, backfilling, and grading activities in accordance with project requirements
  • Assist crews with locating utilities and maintaining safe excavation practices
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair needs
  • Support jobsite setup, cleanup, and material handling activities as needed
  • Follow all company and client safety policies and excavation procedures
  • Work outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions
  • Perform additional duties as assigned
What You'll Bring
  • Experience operating mini excavators in utility, pipeline, or underground construction environments
  • Ability to work safely around underground utilities and active construction sites
  • Basic understanding of excavation safety and trenching requirements
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and work effectively with field crews
  • Strong attention to safety and equipment operation practices
  • Ability to work overtime and weekends as needed
  • Construction, pipeline, or gas distribution experience preferred
  • Bilingual / Spanish-speaking abilities are a plus
  • Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug testing
What You'll Get

As a Quanta Services employee, we offer a wide range of benefits to fit your needs.

  • 401(k) with immediate matching and vesting
  • Fully comprehensive benefits packages; Medical, Dental, Vision
    • Your choice of PPO, HSA, FSA
  • Short term and long term benefits
  • Employee discounts on consumer goods

#LI-TC1

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company’s Human Resources department.