1

Solar Excavator Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Robotics Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

The world must build 3 terawatts of new solar capacity every year for the next 25 years to meet ... We're expanding our team of ambitious, curious, and hands-on engineers and operators who want to ...

Field Robotics Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

The world must build 3 terawatts of new solar capacity every year for the next 25 years to meet ... We're expanding our team of ambitious, curious, and hands-on engineers and operators who want to ...

Field Robotics Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

The world must build 3 terawatts of new solar capacity every year for the next 25 years to meet ... We're expanding our team of ambitious, curious, and hands-on engineers and operators who want to ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules ... operating a variety of heavy equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers ...

Qcells is renowned worldwide for its high-performance, superior-quality solar cells and modules ... operating a variety of heavy equipment such as backhoes, trenchers, excavators, skid steers ...

Solar Excavator Operator information

What is a solar excavator operator?

Solar Excavator Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery, specifically excavators, on solar farm construction sites. Their primary role is to dig trenches, move earth, and prepare land for the installation of solar panels and related infrastructure. They must follow safety protocols, read site plans, and coordinate with other construction workers to ensure the project progresses smoothly. Solar Excavator Operators play a key role in the efficient and safe development of solar energy projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar excavator operator?

To thrive as a Solar Excavator Operator, you need proficiency in operating heavy excavation equipment, a solid understanding of site safety, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS-guided machinery, hydraulic systems, and compliance with OSHA safety standards is often required. Attention to detail, communication, and teamwork are key soft skills that help operators work efficiently and safely on solar construction sites. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring accurate site preparation, minimizing risk, and supporting the successful installation of solar infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by solar excavator operators on renewable energy projects?

Solar Excavator Operators often work on large, open sites where weather conditions and terrain can vary significantly, posing challenges for equipment stability and site access. Coordinating with multiple teams—such as surveyors, electricians, and site managers—is crucial to ensure trenches and foundations are excavated accurately and safely. Operators must also remain attentive to underground utilities and follow strict safety protocols to prevent damage and ensure project timelines are met. Staying adaptable and maintaining clear communication with colleagues is key to overcoming these challenges in a dynamic work environment.

What is the difference between Solar Excavator Operator vs Solar Crane Operator?

AspectSolar Excavator OperatorSolar Crane Operator
CertificationsEquipment operation licenses, safety trainingCrane operation licenses, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, renewable energy projectsConstruction sites, large-scale solar farms
Industry UsageSolar farm installation, excavation workSolar panel installation, heavy lifting

Both roles require specialized certifications and work in similar environments within the renewable energy industry. The main difference lies in the equipment operated: Solar Excavator Operators handle excavators for site prep, while Solar Crane Operators manage cranes for installing large solar components. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles in solar project construction.

What job categories do people searching Solar Excavator Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Excavator Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Solar Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Solar Excavator Operator job openings:

Excavator Operator, Commercial Self Perform

Tesla

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$20.32 - $59.52/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Tesla rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 685 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 45 rated automakers


Job description

What to Expect

As an Excavator Operator, you will be expected to contribute on job sites in Northern California and Southern California, The SouthWest US, and Pacific NorthWest US. This is a travel-based position for which nearly all work will occur on the road. Job durations will range from 1 to 4 weeks and will be undertaken by a cross functional team of 2 to 3 members handling all trades required to get the work done, together. The crew will remain consistent throughout the job and from job to job allowing for team cohesion and improvement as a group. This team will be expected to push the limits of construction technology and techniques, and as such will have direct feedback contact with design engineers, project managers, and business developers related to the program. A well-qualified applicant will have experience in many aspects of civil and underground utility installation. The role will be asked to work alongside and participate in various trades as well as train new employees and educate other members of the organization about the complexities of construction implementation.

Equipment Operators are responsible for manipulating heavy equipment. Usual duties for this role include performing maintenance checks, implementing safety measures, handling inventories, and removing debris. Essential skills include attention to safety, communication, stamina, accuracy, teamwork, and time management.In-between concrete projects, the candidate will be trained to support Powerpack and solar panel installations.

What You'll Do
  • Operate excavators and other heavy equipment to perform tasks such as digging, grading, and material handling
  • Ensure proper maintenance and safety checks of equipment before and after use
  • Follow site plans and instructions to execute precise excavation work
  • Adhere to Tesla's safety protocols and industry standards during all operations
  • Communicate effectively with team members to coordinate tasks and resolve issues
  • Support other construction activities as needed to meet project goals

What You'll Bring
  • Minimum 7+ years as an equipment operator, carpentry and concrete finishing experience is a plus
  • Validdriver's license required, flexibility to work on weekends and/or overtime along with overnight stay to support Tesla's critical mission
  • Proven experience as an Excavator Operator or in a similar heavy equipment role
  • Valid certification or license for operating heavy machinery (as required by local regulations)
  • Strong understanding of construction site safety practices and procedures
  • Ability to read and interpret site plans and technical details
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail

Compensation and Benefits Benefits

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

  • Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction
  • Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
  • Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
  • Company Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSA
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
  • Company paid Basic Life, AD&D
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid Holidays
  • Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
  • Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
  • Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs
  • Tesla Babies program
  • Commuter benefits
  • Employee discounts and perks program
Expected Compensation $20.32 - $59.52/hour + cash and stock awards + benefits

Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.


What Tesla employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom