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Small Excavation Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Mr. Rooter

Excavation Crew Member and Labor

Gladstone, OR · On-site

$24 - $33/hr

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 ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Company Description Subcom Excavation & Utilities LLC is a small business in Washington County, OR. We are agile, fast-paced and professional with lots of room for growth. Our work criteria includes ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Company Description Subcom Excavation & Utilities LLC is a small business in Washington County, OR. We are agile, fast-paced and professional with lots of room for growth. Our work criteria includes ...

Kerr Contractors

Excavation General Laborers

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Experience safely using gas and diesel-powered small machines such as pumps, generators, light plants, compactors, tampers, saws, brush cutters, blowers, etc. * A minimum of 2 years experience ...

Bigfoot Staffing

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Bend, OR

$25 - $33/hr

This is a great opportunity to join a small, team-oriented company looking for a dependable ... Familiarity with skid steers, mini excavators, generators, trailers, or compact construction ...

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Small Excavation information

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 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 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 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 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 basic site preparation and safety procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Small Excavation jobs in Oregon?

For Small Excavation jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

The top searched job categories for Small Excavation jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Small Excavation jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Small Excavation job openings:

Small Excavation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Excavation job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Construction Foreman

WESTERN CONSTRUCTION LLC

Oregon City, OR • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Western Construction LLC is currently looking for an experienced Foreman. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership & organizational skills. Must have a good driving record and be insurable and be able to pass government and K-12 (school district) background check.

Duties to include:

  • Managing crews to perform all project related tasks per code & efficiently.
  • Look out for & protect the health & condition of all employees & equipment under their supervision.
  • Coordinate with the Project Manager on daily supplies & performance.
  • Will be expected to build & design strategies and will hold full control and responsibility for completing the project on time & budget.

Must have experience in the following:

  • Installation of all underground utilities
  • Mass Excavation
  • Grading
  • Building proper fills
  • Current OSHA rules & regulations
  • Ability to operate multiple types of heavy equipment

You will be provided with all equipment, tools, personnel & contacts to properly perform your tasks.

Position includes-

  • Company Truck
  • Work Phone
  • Competitive Base Pay, Prevailing Wage Rates, with Bonus Potential
  • Full Authority of Field Personnel
  • Other Company Perks

This is an old school company mindset. We pride ourselves on being an answer to people's problems, not being another problem.

Company Description

We are a small Excavation Company looking for a dedicated heavy equipment operator to join our family. We do anything from private custom homes to subdivisions, small commercial and public work prevailing wage projects. We work in both Oregon and Washington with possibilities for out of state work as well.