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Shovel Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Mission, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. Essential Job ...

Excavator Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. Essential Job ...

Daily tasks may include power washing, brooming, and shoveling, as well as operating equipment such as skid steers, wheel loaders, and semi-trucks. * Candidates must be comfortable working at heights ...

Excavator Operator

Humble, TX · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. Essential Job ...

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Wichita Falls, TX · On-site

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. This job ...

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Dallas, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. This job ...

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Amarillo, TX · On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. This job ...

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Honey Grove, TX · On-site

$20.25 - $27/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. This job ...

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.75/hr

Backhoe Operator Operates backhoe (hydraulic shovel attached to tractor or train) which digs holes and trenches and removes and transports earth, gravel and other such materials. This job ...

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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.

More about Shovel Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Shovel Operator jobs? Cities with the most Shovel Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shovel Operator jobs? The most popular types of Shovel Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Shovel Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Shovel Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Shovel Operator jobs? For Shovel Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.
Carlin - Drill & Shovel Technician

Carlin - Drill & Shovel Technician

Barrick Gold Corporation

Carlin, NV • On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Barrick Gold rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 32 rated mining


Job description


Position Description:
Would you like to have a career with a collaborative, diverse, and dynamic mining company? We have an opportunity for you!
Our people division is growing, and we are looking for a Drill & Shovel Technician in our Carlin Surface Maintenance department.
At Nevada Gold Mines, our vision is to be the world's most valued gold mining business by finding, developing, and operating the best assets with the best people. We are committed to a safe work environment sending every person home safe and healthy every day and leaving a sustainable legacy on our host communities.
Responsibilities and Qualifications:
  • Perform advanced troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures on hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical systems of large mining equipment
  • Proficient in troubleshooting and repairing hydraulic systems, electrical controls, and structural/mechanical assemblies.
  • Conduct preventative and predictive maintenance.
  • Support and mentor lower-level technicians in repair procedures, safety practices, and proper use of service documentation.
  • Maintain accurate work orders in SAP including parts requests, labor entry, and task notes.
  • Interpret and utilize OEM manuals, electrical schematics, hydraulic diagrams, and technical bulletins to guide repairs and adjustments.
  • Operate service equipment such as forklifts, aerial lifts, overhead cranes, and lube/fuel trucks safely and in compliance with site policies.
  • Collaborate effectively with planning, operations, and warehouse teams to ensure jobs are completed on schedule with minimal rework or delay.
  • Uphold a strong culture of safety by participating in FLRAs, pre-task meetings, and field-level audits; promote safe work practices among the team.
  • Assist with implementation of maintenance strategies and continuous improvement efforts related to shovel and drill availability.

The above duties and responsibilities are representative of the nature and level of work assigned and are not necessarily all-inclusive.
Thank you for your application, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
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About Us
Our mission is to be the world's most valued gold and copper mining business. We are committed to partnering with our host countries and communities to transform their natural resources into tangible benefits and mutual prosperity.
Barrick is a leading global mining, exploration and development company. With one of the largest portfolios of world-class and life-long gold and copper assets in the industry - including six of the world's Tier One gold mines - Barrick's operations an projects span 18 countries and five continents. Barrick is also the largest gold producer in the United States. We create real, long-term value for all stakeholders through responsible mining, strong partnerships, and a disciplined approach to growth. Barrick shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "B" and on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "ABX".
About the Team
Nevada Gold Mines (NGM) is a joint venture between Barrick (61.5%) and Newmont (38.5%) that combined our significant assets across Nevada in 2019 to create the single largest gold-producing complex in the world. NGM produces approximately 3.5 million ounces of gold a year. The massive mining operation comprises eight mines along with their associated infrastructure and processing facilities and hosts three of Barrick's Tier One assets: Carlin, Cortez, and Turquoise Ridge. At NGM, our mission is to be the world's most valued gold mining business by finding, developing, and owning the best assets, with the best people, to deliver sustainable returns for our owners and partners.

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