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Small Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mesa Contracting LLC

Excavation Grade Checker

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$32.33 - $40.41/hr

We pay our Excavation Grade Checkers a competitive wage of $32.33 - $40.41 an hour , depending on ... Experience safely using gas and diesel-powered small machines * Experience safely using pneumatic ...

MTScapes, Inc.

Irrigation Technician

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Ability to safely operate tools, machinery, and small excavation equipment * Working knowledge of horticulture, soil, and plant health * Sharp attention to detail and a problem-solving mindset

New

Mr. Rooter

Excavation Crew Supervisor

Spokane, WA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

You will be asked to repair plumbing systems, installation and maintenance services for residential, small business and commercial customers. * Experience in excavation/installing sewer lines

BEAR EXCAVATION LLC

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oxford, MA · On-site

$30 - $90/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator -- Bear Excavation, LLC Job Type: Full-Time Pay: Mostly prevailing wage ... Small business with 40+ years of experience in the construction industry.

AR Utilities & Excavation

Non CDL Driver

Marion, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Construction / Utilities / Excavation. We are a growing construction company seeking a dependable, motivated Runner / Logistics & Small Equipment Driver to support our field crews and daily ...

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Small Excavation information

See salary details

$10

$22

$32

How much do small excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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.
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What states have the most Small Excavation jobs?

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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 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Excavation Grade Checker

Mesa Contracting LLC

Sherwood, OR • On-site

$32.33 - $40.41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Measure and set grade stakes for construction projects.

  • Perform land grading, structure excavations, and utility trench excavations.

  • Use a rotating laser, grade rod, and GPS equipment to ensure proper site setups and establish benchmarks and elevations.

Job description

Mesa Contracting, LLC in Sherwood, OR is calling all detail-oriented pros to apply to join our amazing team as a full-time Excavation Grade Checker!WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN OUR TEAMWe are an established company that values our employees' contributions. We pay our Excavation Grade Checkers a competitive wage of $32.33 - $40.41 an hour, depending on experience. Our team also enjoys great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, a 401(k) plan, a flexible spending account (FSA), a dependent care account, and paid time off (PTO). Plus, we make it easy to apply with our initial quick mobile-optimized application. If we have your attention, please continue reading!ABOUT MESA CONTRACTING, LLCMesa Contracting is the number one contractor for all civil construction needs. With over 35 years of extensive technical experience, we complete our work safely, on time, and on budget. Our reputation for excellence in delivery, commitment to safety, and strict compliance to standards has earned the trust and respect of contractors, municipalities, and consultants across the region. Our approach to each project and client is always based upon honesty, integrity, and producing the highest quality product available.Our employees are professionally trained in an array of topics and carry their certifications with pride. In addition, we offer career growth opportunities, generous benefits, and a team-oriented environment. We wouldn't have the success we do without our employee's dedicated efforts, and we strive to show our appreciation in whatever ways we can. If you want to join a successful and cohesive team, look no further!ARE YOU A GOOD FIT?Ask yourself: Are you adaptable and able to work well under pressure? Can you prioritize multiple tasks effectively? Is being dependable, professional, and a team player at the heart of all you do? Are you passionate about quality control? If so, please consider applying for this Excavation Grade Checker position today!YOUR LIFE AS AN EXCAVATION GRADE CHECKERThis full-time position works Monday-Friday from 7 am–3:30 pm.As an Excavation Grade Checker, you are responsible for measuring and setting grade stakes for construction projects. Most of your time is spent performing land grading, structure excavations, and utility trench excavations. Using a rotating laser, a grade rod, and GPS equipment, you ensure proper site setups. You also establish benchmarks and elevations. With your knowledge of the construction site, you safely guide trucks and heavy equipment onto embankments or slopes. You enjoy the variety in each workday and find fulfillment in playing a vital role in the successful completion of projects!WHAT WE NEED FROM YOUExperience reading and understanding grade stakesExperience safely using gas and diesel-powered small machinesExperience safely using pneumatic powered impact toolsExperience with hand gradingIf you can meet these requirements and perform this construction job as described above, we would be happy to have you as part of our team!Location: 97140
Job Posted by ApplicantPro