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Small Excavation Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

City of Durham

Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO)

Durham, NC

$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 ...

Blythe Construction Inc

Back Hoe Operator

Raleigh, NC

$41K - $54K/yr

Load and unloading of small equipment. * Utility locates. * Read grade stakes. * Cut grade. * Excavation for structures and footings. * Fine grade slopes and contours suitable for sod. * Other duties ...

Blythe Construction Inc

Back Hoe Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Load and unloading of small equipment. * Utility locates. * Read grade stakes. * Cut grade. * Excavation for structures and footings. * Fine grade slopes and contours suitable for sod. * Other duties ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Small Excavation Operator, and why are they important?

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.

Can you make money with a small excavator?

Small excavation work can be profitable for operators who have the necessary skills, equipment, and access to clients. Earnings depend on factors such as project size, hourly rates, and local demand, with experienced operators often earning a competitive income. Proper licensing, safety training, and efficient operation can enhance profitability in this field.

What's the hourly rate for a mini excavator?

For a small excavation job, the hourly rate for operating a mini excavator typically ranges from $50 to $150, depending on factors such as location, project complexity, and operator experience. Rates may also include equipment rental costs and any necessary permits or certifications.

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 is the 2 4 5 rule in excavation?

The 2-4-5 rule in excavation refers to safety guidelines that specify minimum distances from utility lines: 2 feet from gas lines, 4 feet from electric lines, and 5 feet from water or sewer lines. Small excavation jobs require careful planning and often involve locating underground utilities before digging to prevent accidents and ensure safety.

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.
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.

Crew Chief / Assistant Foreman

J+M Infrastructure

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

J and M Infrastructure, LLC is a Civil-Site and Utilities Contractor that excels in Civil Construction and Site Development Contracting with an emphasis on Utilities and Excavation.  We assist with new construction projects by performing demolition, clearing, excavation, asphalt paving, concrete work, water mains, sewer and storm drainage throughout central and southwest Virginia.
We are focused on building a team of dynamic, motivated individuals who are more than just employees but valued and respected team players.  People are our priority! 
We are experiencing incredible growth and are seeking experienced Crew Chiefs or Assistant Foremen to join our team. 
Our ideal candidate has experience installing water mains - ductile and PVC, gravity sewer, storm drainage, conduits and duct banks, or experience with fine grading stone for concrete or asphalt.  This candidate must be highly motivated, possess a strong work ethic, maintain a positive, can-do attitude, and takes pride in completing projects safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.   
WORK EXPERIENCE:  4-10 years
EDUCATION MINIMUM: GED or High School Diploma preferred
REQUIRED SKILLS:
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Read survey and lay out stakes
  • Safely and effectively operate a variety of heavy equipment, including bulldozers, trackhoes, backhoes, loaders, skid steers, and rollers.

PREFERRED SKILLS: 
  • CDL preferred
  • Calculate, shoot, and set grade elevations
  • Calculate volume / cubic yards of material and tonnage for stone
  • Read plans and blueprints
  • Supervise and lead small crew

RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Maintain a safe job site, ensuring compliance with all safety regulations and protecting the safety of crew members at all times.

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