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Roto Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Excavator Operator

Newark, DE · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Excavator Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Excavator Operator

Newark, DE

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Excavator Operator

Bristol, PA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Roto mill Operator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Operation of a roto-millmaintenance of the mill and support equipment * Reliable and able to work long hours in adverse conditions. * Travel is required with short notice. What You'll Need: * Must ...

Roto mill Operator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Operation of a roto-millmaintenance of the mill and support equipment * Reliable and able to work long hours in adverse conditions. * Travel is required with short notice. What You'll Need: * Must ...

Roto 2

Perrysville, OH · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Shift Differential for 2nd and 3rd Shifts: $1.00 Job Role: (ROTO) Machine Operator ($21.00 ... Machine start-up, operating, and shut-down procedures * Basic machine troubleshooting as needed

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Roto Operator information

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$12

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How much do roto operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for roto operator in the United States is $19.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Roto Operators?

Roto Operators, also known as rotoscope artists, are professionals in the visual effects industry who specialize in creating mattes or masks for elements in a live-action plate. Their main job is to trace over live-action footage, frame by frame, to isolate objects or characters so that effects like compositing, background replacement, or color correction can be applied. Roto Operators use specialized software to ensure precise outlines, which is critical for seamless visual effects. This role requires a keen eye for detail, patience, and proficiency with digital tools. Roto work is often the foundation for many visual effects shots in film and television.

What is the difference between Roto Operator vs Compositor?

AspectRoto OperatorCompositor
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of rotoscoping, software skills (e.g., After Effects, Nuke)Advanced compositing skills, often with similar software
Work EnvironmentVFX studios, post-production housesVFX studios, film and TV post-production
Industry UsagePrimarily in visual effects for film, TV, commercialsIn visual effects, integrating multiple elements into scenes

While both Roto Operators and Compositors work in visual effects, Roto Operators focus on creating masks and isolating elements through rotoscoping, often with similar software skills. Compositors handle integrating these elements into final scenes, requiring broader compositing expertise. Roto Operators typically perform a specialized task within the compositing pipeline, making their roles complementary but distinct.

What are the typical challenges a Roto Operator faces when integrating their work with other visual effects departments?

Roto Operators often encounter challenges when ensuring their mattes align seamlessly with the needs of compositors and other VFX artists. Precise coordination is required to match motion, lighting, and edge detail, especially when working with complex scenes or fast-moving subjects. Effective communication with team members and a strong understanding of the overall VFX pipeline are essential to troubleshoot issues and maintain workflow efficiency. Adapting to feedback and managing tight deadlines are also common aspects of the role.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who operate specialized or heavy machinery such as crane operators, bulldozer operators, or excavator operators with extensive experience and certifications. Crane operators, in particular, tend to earn the highest wages among equipment operators due to the skill and safety requirements involved. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Roto Operator, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Roto Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with manufacturing or machine operation experience. Familiarity with rotogravure printing presses, quality control tools, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and time management skills help ensure smooth production and minimal downtime. These competencies are vital for maintaining product quality, meeting production targets, and ensuring workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.
More about Roto Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Roto Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 38% Physical, and 62% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $39,702 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Excavator Operator

$75K - $95K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 217 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview
Excavator Operator
Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.
If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.
We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements.
The average yearly pay range for this position is between $75,000-$95,000.
Responsibilities
  • 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 sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.

Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.

Benefits
At Roto-Rooter, we believe our most significant investment is in our employees. We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:
  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout nearly 100 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are an excellent fit for our company.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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