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Small Excavation Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

East Coast Civil Group

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Grading Construction Foreman

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

... medium to small sized construction teams, typically ranging from 5 to 15 members. Reporting ... clearing, excavation, cut/fill, rough and fine grading; reading plans, elevations, and grading ...

Urgent

East Coast Civil Group

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Grading Construction Foreman

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

... medium to small sized construction teams, typically ranging from 5 to 15 members. Reporting ... clearing, excavation, cut/fill, rough and fine grading; reading plans, elevations, and grading ...

Urgent

City of Durham

Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO)

Durham, NC · On-site

$53K - $78K/yr

Backhoe, Track-hoe, Skid-Steer, Excavator, Rubber Tire Loader, Front-end Loader and/or tractor with ... and small engines. Inspects conditions of equipment, vehicles, signs, networks, cameras, radio ...

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All JobsSmall Excavation JobsSmall Excavation Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Small Excavation information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$22

$31

How much do small excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for small excavation in Raleigh, NC is $22.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $26.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Raleigh, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Small Excavation jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Excavation jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Small Excavation jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Small Excavation job openings:

Small Excavation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Excavation job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,269 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Grading Construction Foreman

East Coast Civil Group

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Urgent

$80K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

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Job description

The Grading Construction Foreman plays a critical role in overseeing grading operations on medium to small sized construction teams, typically ranging from 5 to 15 members. Reporting directly to the Site Superintendent, the foreman ensures that commercial and industrial projects meet safety, quality, and compliance standards while coordinating resources and managing equipment. This role involves frequent travel between job sites and requires adept use of project management software and digital communication tools to track progress and maintain clear team coordination.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee daily grading operations on commercial and industrial construction sites
  • Supervise and coordinate crews of up to 15 workers
  • Enforce safety protocols and compliance with industry regulations
  • Ensure quality assurance throughout all phases of grading work
  • Manage materials and equipment logistics to optimize workflow
  • Monitor project progress using project management software and mobile apps
  • Report regularly to the Site Superintendent on site status and issues
  • Travel frequently between multiple job sites as required

Preferred Qualifications

  • 5+ years experience in construction supervision
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver’s License


Typical DAY to DAY responsibilities include supervising operators and laborers; coordinating clearing, excavation, cut/fill, rough and fine grading; reading plans, elevations, and grading specifications; setting and verifying grades; coordinating equipment such as dozers, excavators, loaders, graders, and compactors; ensuring proper compaction and drainage; tracking daily production; coordinating with superintendents and project managers; enforcing safety requirements; and keeping projects on schedule.