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Sewer Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Technician for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavation Laborer

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Technician for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

Excavation Laborer

Catonsville, MD · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Technician for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial ...

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Sewer Excavation information

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$13

$21

$31

How much do sewer excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewer excavation in the United States is $21.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is sewer excavation a good career?

Sewer excavation is a skilled trade involving digging and installing underground sewer systems, often requiring knowledge of safety protocols and equipment operation. It offers steady employment opportunities, physical work, and potential for advancement with experience and certifications. The job environment can be physically demanding and may involve working in confined or outdoor spaces.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewer excavation worker?

To thrive as a Sewer Excavation Worker, you need a solid understanding of construction safety, excavation techniques, and experience with heavy machinery, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as backhoes, trenchers, and pipe-laying equipment, along with OSHA safety certifications, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate excavation work that prevents costly errors and maintains public safety.

What is the difference between Sewer Excavation vs Sewer Pipe Layer?

AspectSewer ExcavationSewer Pipe Layer
Primary RoleExcavates trenches and prepares sites for sewer installationLays and installs sewer pipes within excavated trenches
CertificationsOSHA safety training, excavation permitsOSHA safety training, pipe installation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor, often in confined spacesWithin trenches, outdoor, close to excavation sites
Industry UsagePart of excavation and site prep teamsPart of pipe installation crews

While Sewer Excavation involves digging trenches and preparing sites, Sewer Pipe Layer focuses on installing and connecting sewer pipes within those trenches. Both roles often work together on sewer projects but have distinct responsibilities and skill sets.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in sewer excavation, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in sewer excavation often face challenges such as working in confined spaces, encountering unexpected underground utilities, and managing safety hazards like water infiltration or soil instability. These issues can be addressed through thorough site assessment, use of advanced detection equipment, adherence to safety protocols, and clear communication with team members and utility companies. Ongoing training and teamwork are essential for quickly resolving problems and ensuring a safe, efficient excavation process.

What is sewer excavation?

Sewer excavation is the process of digging trenches or holes to access underground sewer lines for repair, replacement, or installation. This work is often required when sewer pipes are damaged, clogged, or need to be upgraded. Sewer excavation involves specialized equipment and strict safety measures to protect workers and prevent property damage. It is typically performed by trained professionals who understand local regulations and proper excavation techniques.
More about Sewer Excavation jobs
What cities are hiring for Sewer Excavation jobs? Cities with the most Sewer Excavation job openings:
What states have the most Sewer Excavation jobs? States with the most job openings for Sewer Excavation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sewer Excavation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,248 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

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Re-posted 3 days ago


Roto-Rooter rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

180th of 278 rated repair and maintenance companies


Job description

Overview
Excavation Technician/Laborer
Roto-Rooter, America's premier provider of plumbing and drain cleaning company is the name that homeowners and businesses turn to for select quality services. We are proud of our 90-year history of success, but it's our future that has us so excited!
We have an excellent opportunity for an Excavation Technician for sewer & water services repairs/replacements. The primary role of the Excavation Technician is to perform residential and commercial excavations that resolve plumbing issues resulting from compromised or broken plumbing lines.
Responsibilities
  • Prioritize safety by strictly adhering to OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety protocols
  • Interact with customers as needed
  • Perform excavation tasks followed by pipe repairs or new pipe installations as an Excavation Technician
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials
  • Work in confined spaces and open trenches
  • Locates and arrives at job sites in a timely manner; safely drives and operates service vehicle between job sites

Requirements
  • Hands-on experience in excavation projects for both residential and commercial construction settings is required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license. Depending on the vehicle driven, a Commercial driver's license may be required.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in navigating excavation environments, including confined spaces and trench operations, with efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines
  • Current CDL or ability to obtain within 90 days if necessary for the vehicle driven
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience a plus
  • Be willing to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, to meet the demands of the position.

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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