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Small Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR ยท 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 ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Oxford, MA ยท 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.

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR ยท 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 ...

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Small Excavation information

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$10

$22

$32

How much do small excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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.
More about Small Excavation jobs

What cities are hiring for Small Excavation jobs?

Cities with the most Small Excavation job openings:

What states have the most Small Excavation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Small Excavation jobs include:

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.

Mechanic - Small Engine Repair near Corsicana, TX

Rizonet

Tyler, TX โ€ข On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position Summary

This position is responsible for diagnosing, servicing, and repairing small gas and diesel engines on commercial lawn and turf equipment, including dealership brands such as Ferris. This is a hands-on, shop-based role supporting the dealership's service department, with the goal of keeping equipment reliable for both retail customers and the company's rental fleet.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair small gas and diesel engines on commercial mowers and outdoor power equipment

  • Perform routine maintenance, tune-ups, and warranty repairs on dealership equipment

  • Inspect equipment upon return from rental or service and identify needed repairs

  • Maintain accurate service records, parts usage logs, and repair documentation

  • Coordinate with the service manager to prioritize the repair queue

  • Assist with basic diagnostics and repairs on rental equipment such as skid steers, excavators, and man lifts as needed

Key Skills

  • Small engine diagnostics and repair

  • Hydraulic and basic electrical systems troubleshooting

  • Proficiency with hand and power tools

  • Attention to detail and accurate record keeping

Requirements

2+ years of small engine mechanic experience is preferred. Experience with commercial lawn and turf equipment brands such as Ferris, Scag, or Exmark is a plus. Candidates should have their own basic hand tools. A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Location and Compensation

This is an on-site role based in the North Central Texas region near Corsicana. Compensation is $22.00 - $26.00 per hour, depending on experience. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.