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Solar Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Solar Gaines

Excavator /Equipment Operator

Ridgely, MD · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Equipment Operator We are looking for a full-time equipment operator to dig trenches for electrical ... Why Choose Solar Gaines? * Competitive pay - $25/hr - $40/hr * Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Solar Gaines

Excavator /Equipment Operator

Ridgely, MD · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Equipment Operator We are looking for a full-time equipment operator to dig trenches for electrical ... Why Choose Solar Gaines? * Competitive pay - $25/hr - $40/hr * Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Solargaines

Excavator /Equipment Operator

Ridgely, MD · On-site

Why Choose Solar Gaines? * Competitive pay - $25/hr - $40/hr * Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance ... Operate equipment (excavator, backhoe, and other heavy equipment) * Keep equipment and site clean ...

Wilks

Heavy Equipment Operator - Cisco, TX

Cisco, TX · On-site

Our team specializes in large-scale clearing, grading, excavation, and civil site development that ... Whether it's a solar farm, battery storage facility, or commercial site, we're built to move earth ...

AEMP USA LLC

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Solar Pile Driving

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Renewable Energy - Utility Scale Solar Projects OUT OF STATE TRAVEL REQUIRED Payscale based on experience and position hired for - heavy equipment operators, skid steer, tele handler, excavator and ...

AEMP USA LLC

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator - Solar Pile Driving

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Renewable Energy - Utility Scale Solar Projects OUT OF STATE TRAVEL REQUIRED Payscale based on experience and position hired for - heavy equipment operators, skid steer, tele handler, excavator and ...

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Solar Excavator Operator information

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How much do solar excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for solar excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

More about Solar Excavator Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Solar Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Solar Excavator Operator job openings:

What states have the most Solar Excavator Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Solar Excavator Operator jobs include:

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

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

Solar Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Knobelsdorff Enterprises

Bloomington, IL • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Working at Knobelsdorff
Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.
Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core values. Starting your career with Knobelsdorff means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work.
If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you.
Job Description
This role supports our Energy Division by preparing our solar fields and staging our Electrical crews. You'll be responsible for operating machinery that directly impacts our project outcome. Success in this role means upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in doing things the right way and thrives in a fast-moving environment, this position is built for you.
What You'll Do
You'll be part of a team that gets things done, works with purpose, and takes pride in the results. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include:
  • Operate heavy equipment and assist with trenching, grading, or material movement
  • Load and unload tools, equipment, and materials from trailers and trucks
  • Support civil work activities including conduit installation and backfilling
  • Assist with photovoltaic construction tasks when not operating machinery
  • Maintain safe operation of equipment in line with job site standards
  • Coordinate with team leads and field personnel for daily work plans
  • Travel and work outdoors in various environmental conditions
  • Follow KE policies, procedures, and safety expectations
  • Support additional duties as needed by project teams
Qualifications
What You Bring
You're someone who shows up ready to work hard, learn fast, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring:
  • Previous experience operating equipment
  • Experience with civil or solar construction preferred
  • Class A CDL preferred
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
  • Willingness to travel extensively (up to 100%), including overnights
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check
  • Valid driver's license with safe driving record
Additional Information
Pay Range
We believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.
Pay Range$25-$35per hour plus per diem, travel incentive opportunities, and overtime eligibility
Prevailing wage may apply depending on project location.
Total Rewards Statement
As a full-time employee at Knobelsdorff, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future.
  • 100% employer-paid health and dental coverage for employees
  • HSA contributions to support your medical expenses
  • Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
  • 401(k) with competitive company match
  • Performance-based incentives
  • Paid weekly with competitive wages
  • PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement
  • Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage
We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.
  • Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, and sit for long periods of time.
  • Must be capable of working in inclement conditions to include extreme hot and cold temperatures.
  • Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 75 lbs.
  • Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources via email at HR@KEway.com
Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)
Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:
  • EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters.
If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we'll work with you.

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