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Small Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bolmer Excavation LLC

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Laborer/operator

Newtown, CT · On-site

$800 - $1.2K/wk

Looking for a laborer/ machine operator for a small excavation business specializing in septic system installs. Depending on background and experience could be an equipment operator and expand with ...

Muth Electric, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fargo, ND · On-site

Excavating for electrical installations, installations of underground conduits, run and operate equipment Essential skills and experience : * Previous experience running small excavation equipment ...

NAKON Excavating

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Excavation operator and laborers

Ramsey, MN · On-site

$25 - $42/hr

NAKON Excavating is seeking skilled Excavation Operators and Laborers to work in small teams of 2-3 people. This role involves operating excavators, skidsteers, and loaders and being able to do labor ...

Clarion Home Services Grp.

Excavation Laborer

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking to add Excavation Laborers to our team. If you have the motivation and the right ... Operate small power tools and hand tools (rakes, shovels, brooms) for various construction tasks.

Mr. Rooter

Excavation Crew Member and Labor

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rooter Plumbing expects of the Excavation Crew Member The role of the Excavation Crew Member is to perform general labor as part of a small team to repair and replace sewer and storm lines. The ...

GF Transport

Excavation Laborer

Fortville, IN · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Position Summary The Excavation Laborer supports site development and earthwork operations by ... small tools such as plate compactors, saws, lasers, and hand tools · Help with form setting ...

Horst Group

Excavating Laborer

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Responsibilities and ExpectationsAs a crucial part of Horst Excavation's Self-Perform team, you'll ... Perform on-site labor work as needed; includes operating jackhammer, small rollers, and tamper ...

Thornapple Excavating

Pipe Layer - Excavation

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who is Thornapple Excavating? Over the last 40 years, Thornapple Excavating has expanded to become ... Underground utility installation: 1-5 years Involves the operation of small equipment and tools ...

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Small Excavation information

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$10

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$32

How much do small excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for small excavation in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a small excavation operator?

To thrive as a Small Excavation Operator, you need expertise in operating excavation machinery, understanding site plans, and knowledge of safety regulations, often gained through vocational training or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as mini-excavators, loaders, and utility location devices is essential, along with any required operator licenses. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, precise, and efficient excavation work on construction sites.

What is the difference between Small Excavation vs Trenching Contractor?

AspectSmall ExcavationTrenching Contractor
CredentialsGeneral excavation licenses, OSHA safety trainingSame as small excavation, with specialized trench safety certifications
Work EnvironmentResidential, commercial, and landscaping sitesPrimarily trenching for utilities, drainage, and foundations
Industry UsageConstruction, landscaping, demolitionUtility installation, drainage, and foundation work

Small excavation and trenching contractors share similar credentials and work environments, but trenching contractors focus specifically on digging trenches for utilities and drainage. While small excavation covers broader tasks, trenching is specialized for narrow, deep excavations. Both roles are essential in construction and utility projects, often overlapping but serving distinct purposes.

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

Professionals in small excavation often encounter challenges such as working in tight or restricted spaces, ensuring safety around underground utilities, and managing varying soil conditions. To address these issues, it's important to conduct thorough site surveys, use appropriate equipment designed for compact areas, and follow strict safety protocols. Regular communication with site supervisors and utility companies also helps minimize risks and ensures efficient project completion.

What is small excavation?

Small excavation refers to the process of digging, removing, or moving earth and other materials on a smaller scale, typically for residential, landscaping, or minor construction projects. This work often involves the use of compact machinery like mini-excavators or backhoes to create trenches, foundations, or to clear land. Small excavation is commonly needed for installing utilities, building driveways, or preparing a site for a garden or pool. It requires knowledge of soil types, safety protocols, and sometimes permits, depending on local regulations.

What are small excavation jobs?

Small excavation jobs involve digging, trenching, or moving earth on a limited scale, often for residential projects like landscaping, foundation work, or utility installation. These tasks typically require the use of compact equipment such as mini excavators and may involve site preparation, grading, or debris removal.
More about Small Excavation jobs

What cities are hiring for Small Excavation jobs?

Cities with the most Small Excavation job openings:

What states have the most Small Excavation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Small Excavation jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Small Excavation jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Excavation jobs are:

Small Excavation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Excavation job openings in the United States 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 $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Laborer/operator

Bolmer Excavation LLC

Newtown, CT • On-site

$800 - $1.2K/wk

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

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Job description

Looking for a laborer/ machine operator for a small excavation business specializing in septic system installs. Depending on background and experience could be an equipment operator and expand with business.