ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Small Excavation Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Hotwire Communications

Construction Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Install conduit/pathways in the ROW from source to site by trenching, excavating, hand digging etc ... Proficiency using small hand tools and larger power tools * Must have active and clean, non ...

New

Hotwire Communications

Construction Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Install conduit/pathways in the ROW from source to site by trenching, excavating, hand digging etc ... Proficiency using small hand tools and larger power tools * Must have active and clean, non ...

New

City of Durham

Senior Traffic Signal Technician

Durham, NC · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

... and small engines. Inspects conditions of equipment, vehicles, signs, networks, cameras, radio ... Operates light to heavy equipment, to include backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, front-end loaders ...

Delta Oaks Group

Construction Top Hand

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Excavator Operator is preferred. * NWSA TTT-1 is preferred. * Must possess and maintain a valid ... the traditional small business philosophies that are so often neglected in today's business ...

City of Durham, NC

Senior Traffic Signal Technician

NC · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

... small engines. * Inspects conditions of equipment, vehicles, signs, networks, cameras, radio ... Operates light to heavy equipment, to include backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, front-end loaders ...

Town of Wendell, NC

Public Works Specialist I

Wendell, NC · On-site

$42K - $65K/yr

... excavators, knuckle booms, street sweepers, forklifts, air compression-driven equipment, and other ... Employee must have the visual acuity to visually inspect small defects or parts, operate or inspect ...

NCSU

Turf Health Technician I

Raleigh, NC

$36K - $47K/yr

Set up, program, and operate various irrigation controllers . * Assist with new irrigation installations, including manual excavation and operating small equipment. * Maintain and troubleshoot low ...

Town of Wendell

Public Works Specialist I

Wendell, NC · On-site

$42K - $65K/yr

... excavators, knuckle booms, street sweepers, forklifts, air compression-driven equipment, and other ... Employee must have the visual acuity to visually inspect small defects or parts, operate or inspect ...

Delta Oaks Group

Construction Foreman

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$61K - $75K/yr

Excavator Operator. * NWSA TTT-1 is preferred. * Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license ... the traditional small business philosophies that are so often neglected in today's business ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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.

Civil Construction Superintendent

J+M Infrastructure

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$86K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

About J+M Infrastructure
We are a company that is founded on family values. Our mission is to "Serve Others Through the Infrastructure We Build," where we specialize in underground utilities and piping. Our small team is our family, and we invest in their growth and well-being through training, support, and recognition.
Why You Might Love Working Here:
  • Family-Oriented Culture: Jacob, our founder, takes a personal, hands-on approach with every project and team member.
  • Mission-Driven Work: Our mission, "Serve Others through the Infrastructure We Build," isn't just a statement. We aim to "Serve one another humbly in love, for the whole law is fulfilled in keeping this one command. Love your neighbor as yourself." Gal: 5:13.
  • Essential Impact: We lay the solid foundation for all types of construction to provide safer roads, smarter drainage, and modern utilities that keep communities and businesses safe.

How You'll Get To Contribute
As we grow to meet a rising backlog of projects, you'll keep crews aligned, clients reassured, and jobs delivered the right way every time, from first boots on site to the last handshake.
What You'll Get To Do
  • Run efficient and smooth multi-site operations that, above all else, prioritize crew safety
  • Deliver successful $2.5M to $11M projects, including managing blueprints, plans, schedules, production, materials, equipment, and subcontractors
  • Drive high-quality sitework with precise material quantities, surveys, layouts, grading, excavation, demolition, underground pipework, and regulatory compliance
  • Grow skilled, reliable crews of 5-7 by combining mentorship, field tech, and hands-on support with equipment operation and site development
  • Create strong, trusting client partnerships through proactive communication, problem-solving, and follow-up

About You
  • You desire to be a creative contributor to a small, rapidly growing company where things quickly evolve, you get to pitch in and work hands-on, and your input truly matters
  • You either already know and love the Lynchburg, VA area, or you've been longing to get to a place between the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and the James River. Lynchburg is a place where you can spend your weekends hiking, fishing, biking, or just enjoying the views, while still living minutes from grocery stores, restaurants, and a growing downtown. You want the best of both worlds: outdoor living and small-city comfort.
  • You have at least 6 years of experience in site preparation, commercial civil underground utilities, surface infrastructure, land and public space improvements, and/or facility rehabilitation
  • You're OSHA 30 Certified
  • You're CPR/First Aid Certified
  • You have a valid driver's license with a clean driving history

Even Better, But Not Required
  • You're familiar with HCSS, Bluebeam, and/or Dropbox
  • You have a CDL license
  • You have VDOT experience and/or certifications

What's in it for you
Growing Support as We Grow
  • Hit the ground running with all the tools you will need to lead your team effectively, including a company truck, fuel card, material supply credit card, $100 safety boot allowance, company phone, tablet, and laptop
  • Administrative support from office and project management
  • Dental and vision insurance are 80% covered for you and your family.
  • 2 weeks of PTO/Vacation plus 7 paid holidays
  • We'll try to keep you assigned closest to home for optimal work/life balance, but if traveling for work is required, per company policy, a weekly meal per diem is provided, and hotels are taken care of
  • Discretionary end-of-year bonus
*We know how much health coverage also matters. A medical benefit plan is our top priority, and we're working to roll it out within the next 60 days.Get Rewarded for Loyalty and Referrals
  • Earn $2,000 for every successful hire you refer as per company policy (uncapped, just taxed)
  • Stay with us and earn loyalty bonuses along the way:
    • 10 years = $10,000
    • 20 years = $20,000
    • 30 years = $30,000
Build Your Future Together
  • You'll have clear expectations and the chance to lead, grow, and advance your skillset. This role can grow into General Superintendent as we continue to build out our team.
  • Most training happens hands-on in the field, with mentorship and role, process, or technology-specific support to help everyone succeed
  • Team events like holiday parties, baseball games, and fishing trips give you time to connect with your crew off the clock.
FAQs
  • Typical hours: Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm with occasional OT/weekend work as needed
  • Work location: This position is on-site, typically within a 2-hour radius of Lynchburg, VA

We are an equal-opportunity employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other protected status. We are committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our workplace and creating an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and supported. We comply with all applicable laws governing EEO and affirmative action, and we ensure that all employment decisions are made solely based on job-related qualifications and merit.

Apply