ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Pipeline Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARK CONTRACTING SERVICES LLC

Excavator Operator

Kennedale, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Excavator Operator Ark Contracting Services LLC headquartered in Kennedale, Texas was established ... retention structures, pipelines, earth anchors systems, erosion protection, and dredging ...

Kenny Seng Construction

Mainline Excavator

Provo, UT · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: Kenny Seng Construction, Inc. Location: Provo, Utah Employment ... operator looking for a stable, local company with a massive pipeline of work? Kenny Seng ...

Kenny Seng Construction

Mainline Excavator

Provo, UT · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: Kenny Seng Construction, Inc. Location: Provo, Utah Employment ... operator looking for a stable, local company with a massive pipeline of work? Kenny Seng ...

HEI Civil - Colorado

Mainline Operator

Denver, CO

$40/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Main Pipeline Excavator Operator to join our team. Responsibilities: * Operate the equipment in adherence to safety policies, procedures, job site ...

HEI Civil - Colorado

Mainline Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$40/hr

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Main Pipeline Excavator Operator to join our team. Responsibilities: * Operate the equipment in adherence to safety policies, procedures, job site ...

CRH

Lead Excavator Operator

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Must have at least 1 year experience as lead excavator operator on civil pipeline job * Experience in a building materials/construction industry preferred. Work Requirements * Must be 18 years of age ...

Kenny Seng Construction

Mainline Excavator

Provo, UT · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company:Kenny Seng Construction, Inc. Location: Provo, Utah Employment ... operator looking for a stable, local company with a massive pipeline of work?Kenny Seng ...

CRH

Lead Excavator Operator

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Must have at least 1 year experience as lead excavator operator on civil pipeline job * Experience in a building materials/construction industry preferred. Work Requirements * Must be 18 years of age ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsConstruction JobsGeneral Construction JobsExcavator Operator JobsPipeline Excavator Operator Jobs

Pipeline Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do pipeline excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for pipeline excavator operator 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.

What is a pipeline excavator operator?

A Pipeline Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy excavating equipment to dig trenches, move earth, and prepare sites for pipeline installation. They ensure precision in excavation to avoid damaging existing utilities and maintain site safety. Operators must understand soil types, equipment capabilities, and follow environmental and safety regulations. This role requires coordination with other pipeline workers and adherence to project specifications. Skilled operators play a crucial part in the efficiency and success of pipeline construction projects.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a pipeline excavator operator?

A Pipeline Excavator Operator’s day generally involves safely operating excavators to dig trenches, remove earth, and prepare the site for pipeline installation under the supervision of the site manager. Operators often inspect and maintain their equipment, follow engineering specifications, and work closely with other crew members and professionals like welders, surveyors, and safety officers. Adhering to safety protocols and communicating effectively with the team are crucial aspects of the job. You may also need to adapt to changing site conditions and help troubleshoot any mechanical or logistical issues that arise during the project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pipeline excavator operator?

To thrive as a Pipeline Excavator Operator, you need hands-on experience operating excavators and heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and familiarity with pipeline construction methods. Certification such as OSHA safety training and proficiency with GPS or machine control systems are often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for coordinating safely with other crew members. These abilities ensure safe and efficient excavation work, prevent costly errors, and maintain project timelines in demanding environments.

How much do they pay a pipeline excavator operator?

A pipeline excavator operator typically earns between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and union membership. Salaries can also range from $40,000 to $80,000 annually for full-time positions, with overtime often available in construction environments. Certifications in equipment operation and safety can influence pay rates.

What do pipeline excavator operators make?

Pipeline excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and union membership. They often work full-time hours in outdoor environments and may require certifications such as OSHA safety training. Salaries can increase with specialized skills and years of experience.

Where do pipeline excavator operators make the most money?

Pipeline excavator operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with a high demand for energy infrastructure, such as areas with extensive pipeline projects or oil and gas development. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in remote or hazardous environments can also increase earning potential.
More about Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Pipeline Excavator Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs are:

Pipeline Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pipeline Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator - Wilmington, NC Region

State Utility Contractors, Inc.

Wilmington, NC • On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary based on the depth of construction experience - Salary Range - $55,000 to $75,000 (Compensation Range based on Overtime and Bonus Structure)

-Summary/Objective-
Excavator Operator
-Candidates should have at least 3 years of experience operating excavators (operating weight 20,000 lbs. or more) on pipeline construction projects. Some manual labor may be required.

Mainline Excavator Position Responsibilities:

  • - Excavate line and grade for mainline waterline according to project plans
  • - Excavate around existing utilities with precision
  • - Understand and implement trench depth and grade
  • - Understand and implement pothole procedure, pipeline and grade compaction
  • - Knowledge of excavation, trenching & shoring practices
  • - Understand and implement the proper rigging for all materials being lowered into the trench
  • - OSHA Certified competent person for trenching & shoring
  • - Thorough knowledge of equipment maintenance to ensure safe and reliable equipment at all times


-This will be a full-time position with some travel required.
-All Candidates must be able to meet the following requirements:
-Have a valid driver’s license with a clean record
-Pass a pre-employment drug screen
-Display a professional and courteous attitude at all times
-Be willing to work nights and weekends when required
-Be able to work overtime when required
-Be willing to work outdoors in extreme conditions (hot/cold)
-Be able to do preventive maintenance on equipment, (grease fittings, check fluid levels, refuel)
-Strictly adhere to company Safety requirements and procedures
-Have the willingness to work in a team environment
Benefits provided:
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
401K Retirement Plan
ESOP - Employee Stock Ownership Plan
Health/Dental/Life/ and Short Term Disability Insurance
-Salary Range: Between $55,000. to $75,000 per year based on experience and abilities
Please attach your resume and references in the following application.