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Shovel Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Atlanta, GA

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

When no operating equipment the operator is expected to perform pick and shovel on construction sites to loads, and unloads stone, gravel, dirt, timber, steel reinforcement, heavy mechanical ...

Excavator Operator

Homer, GA

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Additionally, the excavator operator will perform other duties necessary for daily operations throughout the plant, such as greasing, shoveling and safely maintaining work areas by ensuring these ...

Excavator Operator

Homer, GA

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Additionally, the excavator operator will perform other duties necessary for daily operations throughout the plant, such as greasing, shoveling and safely maintaining work areas by ensuring these ...

Excavator Operator

Homer, GA

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Additionally, the excavator operator will perform other duties necessary for daily operations throughout the plant, such as greasing, shoveling and safely maintaining work areas by ensuring these ...

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Shovel Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$4

$31

How much do shovel operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for shovel operator in Georgia is $31.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.35 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shovel operator?

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 does a shovel operator do?

A shovel operator operates heavy machinery such as excavators or backhoes to dig, move, and load materials like soil, gravel, or debris on construction sites. They must understand safety protocols, operate controls precisely, and often require certification or training to handle the equipment effectively.

What is a shovel operator?

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.

What are popular job titles related to Shovel Operator jobs in GA?

For Shovel Operator jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Shovel Operator job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,344 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Georgia Dirt Crew Excavator Operator

Vallencourt Construction Co., Inc.

Brunswick, GA • On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Vallencourt Construction rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Dirt Crew Excavator Operator- caters towards digging ponds, shaping swale and ditching. 

Essential Functions of the position:
Must be able to sit or stand for multiple hours
Must be able to work long hours, weekends and as necessary to complete assignments.
Must be able to work in outdoor environments and be exposed to heat, rain, cold, wind, and
other weather activities
Must be able to walk long distances.
Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
Must be able to perform manual labor including but not limited to raking, shoveling,
chopping, hammering etc.
Must be able to wear required PPE as per safety manual and OSHA regulations.

The responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Ensure company equipment is lawfully operated, cared for, maintained and used effectively.
Inspect all company equipment before each startup for brakes, horn, steering, fluids, back-up
alarm as well as other safety and functional items
Operate all heavy equipment as requested including but not limited to: excavators, dozers,
loaders, brooms, trucks, skid steers, rollers etc.
Assist with traffic control as needed
Work in outdoor environments consisting of, but not limited to, cold, heat, dust, smoke, rain
and other extreme conditions as needed to complete work assigned
Assist laborers with manual labor which can include, but is not limited to raking, shoveling,
hooking up pumps, installing pipe, mixing concrete, carrying materials, throwing sod,
seeding, etc.
Ensure equipment is only operated in a safe manner
Wear all PPE as required per safety manual and OSHA regulations.


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