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Shovel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Shovel Operator I

Green Valley, AZ

$24 - $32/hr

Responsible for not jacking boom and operating shovel without slack in hoist ropes. * Responsible for knowing equipment maintenance and practices that reduce component damage and wear. * Responsible ...

Freeport McMoRan

Shovel Operator I

Green Valley, AZ

$24 - $32/hr

Responsible for not jacking boom and operating shovel without slack in hoist ropes. * Responsible for knowing equipment maintenance and practices that reduce component damage and wear. * Responsible ...

Freeport McMoRan

Shovel Operator I

Green Valley, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Responsible for not jacking boom and operating shovel without slack in hoist ropes. Responsible for knowing equipment maintenance and practices that reduce component damage and wear. Responsible for ...

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Shovel Operator I

Green Valley, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Responsible for not jacking boom and operating shovel without slack in hoist ropes. * Responsible for knowing equipment maintenance and practices that reduce component damage and wear. * Responsible ...

Victory Paving

Asphalt Shovel Man Laborer

Temecula, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Work closely with the paving machine operator and crew to maintain a consistent mat * Shovel asphalt, clean edges, and perform finish work * Follow management direction and communicate effectively ...

Careers at Teichert

Hot Plant/Crusher Operator

Winton, CA

$31.65 - $37.98/hr

Laborer - includes shoveling, operating equipment, washing, and maintaining the cleanliness of the plant site. * Miscellaneous - includes other various tasks your supervisor may ask of you pertaining ...

Teichert

Hot Plant/Crusher Operator

Winton, CA · On-site

$31.65 - $37.98/hr

Laborer - includes shoveling, operating equipment, washing, and maintaining the cleanliness of the plant site. * Miscellaneous - includes other various tasks your supervisor may ask of you pertaining ...

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Shovel Operator information

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$5

$33

How much do shovel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for shovel operator in the United States is $33.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.17 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $250 an hour?

Shovel operators typically do not earn $250 an hour; such high wages are usually associated with specialized roles like construction managers, project engineers, or highly experienced tradespeople in niche industries. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and significant experience, and may involve working in high-demand environments or on large-scale projects.

How much do shovel operators make?

Shovel operators typically earn an average hourly wage between $18 and $30, depending on experience, location, and the industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy equipment often earn higher wages, especially in construction, mining, or industrial settings.

What does a typical workday look like for a Shovel Operator?

A typical workday for a Shovel Operator involves operating and maintaining large shovels to excavate, move, and load materials such as soil, gravel, or minerals onto trucks or conveyors. Operators usually start their shift with equipment safety checks and may work closely with site supervisors, truck drivers, and other heavy equipment operators to coordinate tasks. Depending on the project, the environment can vary from outdoor construction sites to mining operations, often requiring long hours and adherence to strict safety protocols. Teamwork, clear communication, and adaptability to changing site conditions are part of the daily routine, making this role both challenging and rewarding for those who enjoy hands-on work.

What is the role of a shovel operator?

A shovel operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as excavators or backhoes to move, lift, and load materials like soil, gravel, or debris on construction sites. They must follow safety protocols, often hold relevant certifications, and have good coordination and understanding of equipment controls.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Shovel operators working in specialized construction, mining, or heavy equipment roles can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with overtime, high-demand projects, or specialized skills. These positions often require certifications, experience, and working in challenging environments such as large-scale infrastructure or excavation projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Shovel Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Shovel Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, attention to safety, and experience with heavy equipment operation, often backed by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant work experience. Familiarity with operating various types of shovels (hydraulic, electric, or cable), as well as knowledge of safety regulations and, in some regions, equipment-specific certifications, is vital. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills are important for working efficiently in dynamic, team-driven environments like construction sites or mines. These abilities ensure the operator can maintain productivity, minimize accidents, and contribute to the overall success of the project.

What is a Shovel Operator job?

A Shovel Operator is responsible for operating heavy-duty excavating equipment, such as power shovels or hydraulic excavators, to move earth, rock, or other materials in construction, mining, or industrial settings. They follow safety protocols, perform routine equipment maintenance, and work closely with other site personnel to complete excavation tasks efficiently. This role requires skill in maneuvering machinery, attention to detail, and adherence to safety regulations to ensure smooth operations.

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Shovel Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Shovel Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,134 per year, or $33.2 per hour.
Shovel Operator I

Shovel Operator I

Freeport McMoRan

Green Valley, AZ

$24 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 32 rated mining

Job description

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you'll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career. Apply Today! 

Where You Will Work 

Sierrita operations is located just 20 miles from Tucson - Arizona's second-largest city. Its cutting-edge mine training facility, with state-of-the-art labs, classrooms and advanced simulators, equips our people with the skills, expertise and knowledge to excel. Whether you choose to live in Green Valley, Sahuarita or Tucson, you will enjoy spectacular sunsets and mild winters as well as numerous local attractions. Tucson is home to the Pima Air and Space Museum, University of Arizona and Sonora Desert Museum. Other notable community staples are several schools, hospitals, restaurants, parks, shopping centers and more. Visit sahuaritaaz.gov and tucsonaz.gov to learn more. 

What You Will Do
  • Responsible for creating and maintaining proper grade on benches and drop cuts and maintaining proper slopes when digging finals.
  • Responsible for the safe operation and management of shovel loading area.
  • Responsible for the knowledge and safe performance of the following procedures:  start-up and shut-down, mounting and dismounting, Lock-Out Tag-Out Try-Out (LOTOTO), emergency, run-a-way, handling power cable, setting and releasing brakes, horn signals, high wall safety, moving and set-up, loading dispatch, grade control, tooth metrics, dipper trips, and working with auxiliary equipment.
  • Responsible for knowing equipment components such as:  bucket, hoist cables, boom suspension cables, hoist drum/gear case, swing motor/gear case, circle gear, power cable, dipper trip system, crowd belts, and saddle blocks/sticks, tracks
  • Responsible for performing the following tasks:  maintaining a clean loading area, controlling tails, creating good set-ups, digging sequence for loading on both sides, digging sequence for loading on single side, moving when swing arc exceeds ninety degrees, dipper fill factor, deep bank penetration without stalling, establishing and maintaining grade, and moving cable towers.
  • Responsible for not jacking boom and operating shovel without slack in hoist ropes.
  • Responsible for knowing equipment maintenance and practices that reduce component damage and wear.
  • Responsible for knowing shovel control system/gauges and online GPS (CAES) system.
  • Operates mobile equipment.
  • Communicates through computer dispatching system or two-way radio.
  • Performs pre-shift inspection of equipment.
  • May perform minor maintenance & operations support activities.
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Six (6) months of mobile equipment operating experience
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (this includes Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP Exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude. The selected candidate shall demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills while also passing a written assessment where required. This exam is based on skills/abilities and/or academic knowledge, as well as safety.
Preferred Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Qualified Shovel Operator with 6 months of experience

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$24.00 - $32.00/hour. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role. 

  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits 
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance 
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match 
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave 
  • Tuition assistance 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle 
  • Internal progression opportunities 
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package! 

What We Require 

  • Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam. 
  • Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing. 
  • Employees may be required to work a non-standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365-day operation. 
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws.
     

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised that Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com. 

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