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Remote Excavator Operator Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Site Safety Manager

Kansas, OK · On-site +1

$92K - $134K/yr

At Ameresco, we show the way by developing, constructing and operating tailored smart energy ... Excavation; Scaffolding; Fall protection; Hazardous energy; Confined space; Health hazard ...

Remote Excavator Operator information

See Oklahoma salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do remote excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote excavator operator in Oklahoma is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote excavator operator?

A Remote Excavator Operator controls heavy excavation equipment from a distance using wireless technology, cameras, and sensors. This role is often used in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments such as mining, demolition, or disaster recovery. Operators maintain precision and safety while maneuvering equipment remotely, reducing risks associated with on-site operations. Strong technical skills and experience with excavator controls are essential for this position.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a remote excavator operator?

To thrive as a Remote Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, attention to safety protocols, and prior experience with excavation work, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with remote operation control systems, GPS-based technologies, and sometimes certification from recognized vocational or operator training programs is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain focused and proactive while working independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and precise excavation work, even when working offsite or in distributed teams.

What are the unique challenges faced by remote excavator operators compared to traditional on-site operators?

Remote Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as limited physical visibility of the job site, requiring a high reliance on camera feeds, sensors, and real-time data to operate machinery accurately. Communication with on-site teams is crucial, as operators must coordinate closely with ground personnel to ensure safety and correct execution of tasks. Another unique aspect is maintaining focus over long periods while monitoring screens and adjusting for any lag in remote controls. Adapting quickly to new technologies and staying updated with remote operation systems can also be essential for long-term career growth in this evolving field.

Where do remote excavator operators make the most money?

Remote excavator operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong construction and infrastructure development, often in areas with higher living costs. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects also influence earning potential, regardless of location.

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

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Oklahoma are:

What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for Remote Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Oklahoma with the most Remote Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Excavator Operator job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,236 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Equipment Operator (Intermediate Trainee)

Southwestern Power Administration

Gore, OK • On-site, Remote

$30.10/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Summary
As an Equipment Operator (Intermediate Trainee), you will work under a journey-level Equipment Operator or Equipment Operator Leader to build the skills and gain the knowledge and experience needed to operate a combination of transportation, construction, or other mobile equipment and stationery or portable industrial equipment, machinery, and tools.
**This is not a remote position. The selectee will be required to be physically present in Gore, OK.**
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Duties
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As an Equipment Operator (Intermediate Trainee), at the intermediate level the trainee performs assigned duties and tasks, and receives training to develop skills and knowledge of operating and maintaining:
  • Large commercial heavy equipment (Front End Loaders, Motor Graders, Bull Dozers, Backhoes) used in excavation, leveling, road building, hoisting, towing, and hauling work.
  • Pneumatic tools for drilling rock and excavating pole and anchor holes for transmission line maintenance projects.
  • Equipment and heavy vehicles used in the performance of maintenance of rights-of- way activities.
  • One or more gasoline, diesel, and/or electric powered wheeled motor vehicles, that typically have an approximate gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds including trucks with trailers to transport supplies, materials, equipment, and/or tools, or tow equipment to work sites over Federal, state, and county roads and city streets in all traffic conditions and from job sites.
  • Large commercial rubber tire and track type equipment with brush cutting attachments and side-trimming machines, in the clearing and cutting of heavy brush along transmission lines rights-of-way, in substations, communication sites and pole yards.
  • Routine maintenance on equipment and vehicles used in accordance with clearly described parameters. Work involves making simple adjustments to equipment used, removing, replacing, adjusting, and or cleaning defective parts of components.
  • Portable saws, hand saws or machetes in the felling and trimming of trees and brush along transmission line rights-of-way, in substations, communication sites and pole yards. Uses post hole diggers and post drivers for installing gates and fences.
  • Loads, unloads, and or carries materials, supplies, or equipment. Apply herbicide for brush and tree control to transmission line rights-of-way in accordance with clearly described parameters and landowner's permission.
  • Complete all required administrative duties. Follows safety procedures for safe operation of equipment.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
  • This employer participates in the e-Verify program.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Suitable for Federal employment, as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary/trial period. Employees serving on a probationary or trial period may be terminated at any time during the probationary or trial period for performance, conduct, or business-related reasons in the interest of Federal service.
  • Security clearance and associated requirements - Non-Sensitive/Low Risk.
  • The incumbent is required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • The incumbent is subject to the random drug and alcohol testing program established by the Department of Energy.
  • The position requires a pre-appointment and annual physical exam at Federal expense.
  • The incumbent of this position is subject to inclement weather conditions such as hightemperatures, rain, sleet, snow, and extreme cold.
  • This position may require regular and recurring overtime. Overtime may be required on short notice to include nights, holidays, and weekends in support of related mission requirements.
  • This position requires the ability to operate a government vehicle. The incumbent must be able to obtain and maintain Defensive Drivers certification and have a valid state driver's license. Defensive Driver's Training will be completed upon employment.
  • The incumbent must possess upon entry into the position and continue to maintain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate vehicles of more than 26,000 pounds GVWR upon entry into the position. The license must NOT have the following restriction codes: L, Z, E, O.

Qualifications
In order to qualify for this position, your resume must provide sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, and abilities, to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are being considered. Your resume is the key means we have for evaluating your skills, knowledge, and abilities, as they relate to this position. Therefore, we encourage you to submit a thorough resume that directly relates to this position.
Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations (X-118C).Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below. This job has a screen-out factors which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on this screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible.
The screen-out element for this position is: Ability to do the work of an Equipment Operator (Intermediate Trainee), such as clearing and maintaining high voltage transmission rights-of-way (up to 161kV), independently without more than normal supervision.
Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone.
"Experience" refers to paid and unpaid experience. Examples of qualifying unpaid experience may include: volunteer work done through National Service programs (such as Peace Corps and AmeriCorps); as well as work for other community-based philanthropic and social organizations. Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills; and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Limit your resume to no more than two (2) pages. If more than two pages are submitted, only the first two pages will be reviewed to determine your eligibility and qualifications.
Physical Demands:
Work assignments typically require moderately heavy physical effort to reach, bend, turn, and move arms, feet, and legs. Duties require the trainee to maneuver into and out of specific locations while dismantling and assembling utility related equipment to handle different sets of controls; to operate large wheeled and track type equipment and attachments; walking across rugged terrain; and loading and unloading tools and related equipment, often lifting and handling items weighing up to 100 pounds. Considerable strain is caused by the constant, vibration, jerking and jolting of the equipment during operation over rough terrain or surfaces. Due to the location of some of the controls, operators are required to work in awkward or strained positions. There are occasions when the incumbent is required to sit and stand for long periods of time.
Working Conditions:
Work is performed in remote, outdoor field locations with exposure to all types of weather conditions (wind, rain, dust, hot sun, cold weather). Employee is exposed to unpleasant noise levels, vibrations, dust, dirt, and fumes from the motor and exhaust. Work is performed in rights-of-way where the employee is exposed to danger from an atmosphere of high voltage electricity and must apply a wide range of safety precautions. Position may require accredited nationally recognized certification for fixed and swing boom cranes, aerial man-lifts, and/or material handling equipment. If so, training will be provided at government expense. Travel to and lodging at remote locations is frequently required. Travel is by motor vehicle, aircraft, or other means of transportation.
Education
For this position, education cannot be substituted for experience.
Additional information
  • This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional similar vacancies across DOE.
  • For general information on government-wide Telework polices visit: www.telework.gov.
  • Applicants may request Reasonable Accommodation (RA) when applying or competing for a job due to a medical condition or to exercise religious beliefs. If you need reasonable accommodation in the application or selection process, please contact the Agency Contact listed on this vacancy announcement.
  • The selectee for this position may be eligible to receive a recruitment or relocation incentive. You will need to sign an employment agreement to be eligible for this incentive.
  • Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized.
  • This position may be eligible for creditable service towards annual leave. Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. DOE may offer newly-appointed Federal employee's credit for their job-related non-federal experience or active duty uniformed military service. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.