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Quarry Excavator Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Loader Operator

Ortonville, MN

$17 - $22.25/hr

Quarry Reports to: Plant Manager Job Summary: The Loader Operator is responsible for safely and ... Safely operates heavy equipment to excavate, move, load, and grade rock, gravel, and sand.

Application Instructions Fehn Companies is a family owned and operated, gravel and excavation ... quarries, and other work sites. The role involves safely driving the truck, ensuring proper loading ...

Quarry Excavator Operator information

What does a quarry excavator operator do?

A Quarry Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, such as excavators, to extract rock, stone, gravel, or sand from quarries. They carefully maneuver equipment to efficiently remove materials while ensuring safety and minimizing environmental impact. Operators also perform routine maintenance on their machines and work closely with other quarry staff to meet production targets and adhere to safety regulations.

What are some common challenges quarry excavator operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Quarry Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as operating heavy machinery on uneven and sometimes hazardous terrain, managing dust and visibility issues, and maintaining equipment performance. Effective communication with other team members and adherence to strict safety protocols are essential for minimizing risks. Regular equipment checks, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and ongoing training help operators perform their duties safely and efficiently while supporting smooth workflow within the quarry team.

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

To thrive as a Quarry Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, quarry safety protocols, and ideally a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hydraulic excavators, GPS guidance systems, and sometimes specialized operator certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient material extraction and help maintain a productive and hazard-free work environment.

What is the difference between Quarry Excavator Operator vs Crusher Operator?

AspectQuarry Excavator OperatorCrusher Operator
CertificationsHeavy machinery operation, OSHA safety trainingHeavy machinery operation, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentOpen-pit quarry sites, construction zonesCrusher plants, aggregate processing facilities
Industry UsageMining, construction, aggregate extractionMining, construction, aggregate processing

Both Quarry Excavator Operators and Crusher Operators work in mining and construction environments, often requiring similar certifications and safety training. While excavator operators focus on moving large volumes of material within quarries, crusher operators manage and maintain crushing equipment to process materials. Understanding these roles helps employers and job seekers identify the right position based on specific skills and work environments.

How much do they pay a quarry excavator operator?

A quarry excavator operator typically earns between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment or certifications may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for mining and construction work.

What qualifications do I need to work as a quarry excavator operator?

To work as a quarry excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and specialized training in operating heavy machinery. A valid forklift or excavator certification and familiarity with safety protocols are often required, along with experience operating excavators and knowledge of site-specific procedures.

Where do quarry excavator operators make the most money?

Quarry excavator operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong mining and construction industry, often in areas with higher cost of living and demand for skilled heavy equipment operators. States or provinces with significant mineral extraction or large-scale infrastructure projects typically offer higher pay rates for this role. Experience, certifications, and working in remote or challenging environments can also influence earnings.

What job categories do people searching Quarry Excavator Operator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Quarry Excavator Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Quarry Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Quarry Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Quarry Excavator Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Loader Operator

L. G. Everist, Inc.

Ortonville, MN

$17 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Loader Operator
Job Description
Department: Quarry
Reports to: Plant Manager

Job Summary:
The Loader Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment (loaders) to load and transport materials to designated areas. The role involves ensuring that machinery is in good working condition, adhering to safety protocols, and collaborating with other team members.

Supervisory Responsibilities:
The position has no direct reports.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Emphasis on Loader operation.
• Safely operates heavy equipment to excavate, move, load, and grade rock, gravel, and sand.
• Performs daily inspection and maintenance and ensures that the machine is in safe, proper working order, including fluid checks and proper lubrication.
• Maintains orderliness, cleanliness, and safety at job site.
• Display good communication skills, including the ability to understand and follow verbal and written directions and instructions.

Required Skills/Abilities:
• Experience operating a loader.
• The ability to follow and enforce safe work practices.
• Self-directed and can work independently with minimal supervision.
• High attention to detail.
• Good work attendance.
• Ability to lift objects weighing 50 pounds.

Education and Experience:
High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) required.

Physical Requirements:
• Ability to stand, squat, bend, walk for long durations.
• Able to work outside in all types of weather conditions and tolerate loud noises.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.

L. G. Everist, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate. We embrace a diverse workforce and opportunities for all qualified applicants. We are committed to having a team that represents the communities where we operate with a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
All job offers are contingent upon passing a pre-employment drug test and background check.


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