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Solar Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PSG Energy Services

Solar Project Manager

Newark, NJ · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Direct and coordinate subcontractors, electricians, equipment operators, testing contractors, and ... Understand fall protection, excavation safety, equipment operation, electrical safety, and PPE ...

PSG Energy Services

Solar Project Manager

Harrison, NJ

$95K - $105K/yr

Direct and coordinate subcontractors, electricians, equipment operators, testing contractors, and ... Understand fall protection, excavation safety, equipment operation, electrical safety, and PPE ...

PSG Energy Services

Solar Project Manager

Irvington, NJ · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Direct and coordinate subcontractors, electricians, equipment operators, testing contractors, and ... Understand fall protection, excavation safety, equipment operation, electrical safety, and PPE ...

PSG Energy Services

Solar Project Manager

Kearny, NJ

$95K - $105K/yr

Direct and coordinate subcontractors, electricians, equipment operators, testing contractors, and ... Understand fall protection, excavation safety, equipment operation, electrical safety, and PPE ...

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Solar Excavator Operator information

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$13

$26

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How much do solar excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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.

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What cities are hiring for Solar Excavator Operator jobs?

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What states have the most Solar Excavator Operator jobs?

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Solar Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% 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.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Solar Pile Driving

San Antonio, TX • On-site

AEMP USA LLC
Transportation Equipment Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about AEMP USA LLCexternal

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

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 solar pile dirver.

Solar Pile Driving Operators -

Operators are required to have 3 years verifiable experience operating heavy construction equipment. Must have forklift operators certification and a minimum of OSHA 10. Solar pile driving operators must have a demonstrated ability to install pile per construction documentation within specified tolerances.

Duties include -

  • Operate heavy equipment in compliance with the company's operating safety policies and procedures.
  • Provide recommendations for maintaining and improving environmental performance.
  • Load and unload equipment and materials from vehicles and trailers.
  • Ensure company equipment, material, and the work site are maintained, kept clean, and stored in a safe manner. Collect and dispose of scrap, excess materials, and refuse.
  • Complete required paperwork, reporting, and other documentation.
  • Complete required paperwork, reporting, and other documentation. Daily walk around to inspect equipment prior to use.
  • Assist, when necessary, with setting up lasers and string line.
  • Assisting with placement of pile onto the field with compact track loader prior to installation.
  • Remediation of pile for tolerances.
  • Hand and foot coordination: You must coordinate movements of your hands and feet in order to guide very large machinery in tight places.
  • Operation Monitoring: You'll have to read gauges, dials, and other indicators, and adjust them as necessary.
  • Interpersonal skills and teamwork: You must be able to coordinate your actions with those of other workers on busy construction sites.
  • Troubleshooting: Anyone operating heavy equipment should be able to detect and fix operating problems.
  • Critical thinking: Your job will require that you identify the strengths and weaknesses of solutions to problems in order to choose the one that is most likely to be successful and cost-effective.


All work is performed outdoors and workers are subject to extreme weather conditions. Must be able to work in extreme conditions - summer heat and winter cold weather.

Must be able to lift 50 lbs.

Ability to stand and work on your feet for your shift.

Must be able to walk extensively throughout the day on the job site.

Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions and hot and cold weather.

Must have reliable transportation. Employees are responsible for their own transportation to the project site.

Must speak and write English proficiently.

Must have a HS diploma.

OSHA 10 Required.

Extensive travel is required for extended periods.

Weekly travel per diem and travel time paid.'
'
Employment Length:

  • Varies

This Job Is:

  • A job for which military experienced candidates are encouraged to apply
  • A good job for someone just entering the workforce or returning to the workforce with limited experience and education
  • Open to applicants who do not have a college diploma

Company Description

XCEL provides subcontractor services for the utility scale solar industry from engineering support for foundation design, foundation installation, pile driving, DTH drilling, mechanical construction of solar trackers and fixed tilt racking, to full electrical services licensed in 14 states. Our senior management team has completed over 3GW of utility scale projects across the USA.