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Pile Driver Operator Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Pile Driver Operator information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$21

$24

$27

How much do pile driver operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for pile driver operator in Phoenix, AZ is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.22 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pile driver operator?

Pile drivers are large construction vehicles mounts on skids or barges to become mobile. These machines drive piles--large metal or wooden rods--deep into the ground to support large buildings or structures. Pile driver operators maintain and operate these vehicles for construction projects. As a pile driver operator, you make sure that all the piles you drive are done to the proper specifications. You also perform routine maintenance and repair work on your equipment. In addition to pile drivers, you may operate cranes or other heavy lifting and moving equipment on a construction site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pile driver operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pile Driver Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and experience with heavy construction equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Proficiency in operating pile driving rigs, understanding safety systems, and sometimes holding certifications like OSHA or NCCCO are typical requirements. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, precise, and efficient installation of foundation piles on construction sites.

What are some common challenges pile driver operators face on construction sites, and how are they addressed?

Pile Driver Operators often work in variable weather conditions and on uneven terrain, which can pose safety and operational challenges. Coordination with ground crews and other heavy equipment operators is essential to ensure precise placement and stability of piles. Adhering to strict safety protocols and regular equipment inspections help mitigate risks. Operators also need to adapt to different soil types and project specifications, requiring both technical skill and problem-solving ability.

What is the difference between Pile Driver Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectPile Driver OperatorCrane Operator
CertificationsOSHA certification, specialized pile driving licensesOSHA certification, crane operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, near water, deep foundation projectsConstruction sites, lifting heavy loads at various heights
Industry UsageHeavy civil, foundation, marine constructionBuilding, infrastructure, industrial projects

Both Pile Driver Operators and Crane Operators work in construction environments and require OSHA certification. However, Pile Driver Operators specialize in operating equipment for driving piles into the ground, often in foundation projects, while Crane Operators focus on lifting and moving materials with cranes. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right role based on skills and project needs.

How much do pile driver operators make?

Pile driver operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages and may work overtime or on specialized projects.

What are popular job titles related to Pile Driver Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

For Pile Driver Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pile Driver Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Pile Driver Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

Infographic showing various Pile Driver Operator job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,067 per year, or $26 per hour.

Utility Scale Solar Pile Installation Superintendent

R-2 Contractors

Tempe, AZ • On-site

$140K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team at R-2 Contractors!
R-2 Contractors is seeking an experienced and motivated Utility-Scale Solar Pile Installation Superintendent to lead field operations performing driven pile installation on utility-scale solar, renewable energy, battery energy storage (BESS), transmission, and substation projects throughout the United States. This field leadership role is responsible for safely planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of pile installation while delivering exceptional quality, developing field leaders, and ensuring projects are completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
Working closely with Project Managers and Operations Leadership, the Solar Pile Installation Superintendent oversees day-to-day field operations, including production planning, crew leadership, pile layout verification, equipment utilization, pile driving operations, quality control, scheduling, and customer coordination. Success in this role is measured by the ability to build high-performing teams, consistently deliver quality work, maintain a safe jobsite, and exemplify the R-2 standard of excellence.
Position: Utility-Scale Solar Pile Installation Superintendent
Location: Nationwide Project sites
Travel Requirements:
• This is a field-based position requiring 100% travel to active project sites throughout the United States
• Candidates must be willing to travel extensively and work extended schedules as required to support project demands
Salary: $140-200k
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead all field operations for utility-scale solar pile installation projects
• Plan and coordinate manpower, pile driving equipment, materials, subcontractors, and production schedules
• Supervise Foremen, equipment operators, craft personnel, subcontractors, and field teams to ensure safe and productive project execution
• Oversee pile layout verification, pile driving operations, production sequencing, pile elevation verification, tolerance compliance, and quality control activities
• Ensure piles are installed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project specifications, engineering requirements, and manufacturer tolerances
• Read and interpret project drawings, pile layouts, geotechnical reports, survey data, and construction documents
• Coordinate daily activities with Project Managers, customers, inspectors, survey crews, subcontractors, suppliers, and equipment manufacturers
• Monitor production, manpower, equipment utilization, budgets, schedules, and overall project performance
• Oversee the efficient utilization of pile driving equipment, excavators, telehandlers, GPS layout equipment, and support equipment
• Identify field challenges early and proactively implement solutions to minimize impacts to safety, quality, schedule, and production
• Coordinate with survey teams to verify pile locations, elevations, and alignment throughout construction
• Develop Foremen and future Superintendents through coaching, mentorship, accountability, and leadership by example
• Maintain complete project documentation, daily reports, production tracking, quality records, and inspection documentation
• Foster a culture centered on safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement
• Lead by example while living and reinforcing the R-2 Core Values every day
Requirements:
• Minimum 10 years of utility-scale solar, heavy civil, renewable energy, or foundation construction experience
• Minimum 5 years of experience leading pile installation operations as a Superintendent or Senior Superintendent
• Extensive knowledge of utility-scale solar pile installation, pile driving equipment, production planning, pile tolerances, survey coordination, and quality control
• Experience managing hydraulic pile driving equipment, excavators, telehandlers, GPS layout systems, and associated support equipment
• Strong understanding of production planning, operational scheduling, equipment utilization, quality control, surveying, and project execution
• Ability to read and interpret project drawings, pile layouts, geotechnical reports, survey data, and construction documents
• Proven ability to lead multiple crews while maintaining productivity, quality, and safety
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to build strong working relationships with Project Managers, customers, inspectors, survey crews, subcontractors, suppliers, and field personnel
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, accountability, quality workmanship, and operational excellence
• Willingness to travel nationwide and work extended hours as project schedules require
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Ability to successfully complete pre-employment drug screening and background check
What Success Looks Like:
The successful Utility-Scale Solar Pile Installation Superintendent:
• Builds high-performing field teams that consistently work safely and efficiently
• Delivers utility-scale solar pile installation projects that meet or exceed project specifications, production goals, and quality expectations
• Develops strong Foremen and future Superintendents
• Earns the trust and confidence of customers, inspectors, and project leadership through reliable execution
• Plans ahead, communicates proactively, and resolves challenges before they impact production
• Strengthens R-2 through continuous improvement in safety, quality, productivity, equipment utilization, and leadership development
Our Leadership Philosophy:
At R-2 Contractors, technical expertise may open the door-but leadership is defined by how you develop people, build teams, and live our Core Values.
Our leaders are expected to:
• Lead with integrity, humility, professionalism, and accountability
• Put the safety and success of their people first
• Coach, mentor, and develop future leaders
• Build trust through consistent execution and open communication
• Foster teamwork while empowering others to grow
• Hold themselves and others accountable to the highest standards
• Protect and strengthen the culture that makes R-2 different
• Leave their team stronger than they found it
The R-2 Core Values
PRIDE - We take ownership of our work, our people, our equipment, and our reputation. Every project reflects the pride we have in our craft.
• Do What's Right
• Put Your Name On It
• Never Accept Mediocrity
• I Am R-2
• Grow or Die
GRIT - We embrace challenges, solve problems, overcome adversity, and never allow obstacles to define our success.
• Dig Deep and Grind It Out
• Give It Your All
• Do What It Takes
• Dedication
OWN IT! - We don't make excuses or point fingers. We own the outcome, communicate early, solve problems, and continually improve ourselves and our teams.
• Do What You Say
• Be Accountable
• If You Ain't First, You're Last
• Accept Criticism
• Own Your Position
Benefits:
• Paid Time Off (PTO)/Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance (company funded plans available for the entire family)
• 401(k) with 3% company match
• 5-Year Employment Appreciation Bonus
Ready to Join Our Team?
If you're ready to lead utility-scale concrete crews, develop exceptional field personnel, and help build some of the nation's most critical power infrastructure projects, we'd love to hear from you.
At R-2 Contractors, we don't simply place concrete-we build infrastructure, develop leaders, strengthen teams, and create a culture that refuses to settle for anything less than excellence.
Apply today and help us build what's next.
R-2 Contractors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
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