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Trainee Excavator Operator Mining Jobs in Reston, VA

All JobsExcavator Operator Mining JobsTrainee Excavator Operator Mining JobsTrainee Excavator Operator Mining Jobs in Reston, VA

Trainee Excavator Operator Mining information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do trainee excavator operator mining jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee excavator operator mining in Reston, VA is $27.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $29.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee excavator operator in mining, and why are they important?

To excel as a Trainee Excavator Operator in mining, you need a basic understanding of heavy machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with mining safety protocols, pre-start checks, and sometimes completion of a nationally recognized ticket or certification (such as an RIIMPO320F) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and communication skills help you follow instructions precisely and ensure a safe, efficient worksite. These skills and qualities are crucial to maintain safety standards, minimize operational risks, and contribute to successful mining operations.

How long is trainee excavator operator mining training?

Trainee excavator operator mining training typically lasts between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the program and the level of certification required. The training includes classroom instruction, hands-on operation, and safety procedures, often culminating in a certification or license to operate heavy machinery. Additional on-the-job experience may be required for full qualification.

What types of training and support can a new trainee excavator operator expect during their initial months in a mining operation?

As a new Trainee Excavator Operator in mining, you’ll typically go through a structured onboarding process that combines classroom instruction, safety training, and supervised hands-on experience with heavy equipment. You’ll work closely with experienced operators and trainers who will guide you through standard operating procedures, equipment maintenance basics, and essential safety protocols. The work environment emphasizes teamwork and safety, so you can expect regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and mentorship throughout your training period. This supportive structure is designed to help you build confidence and competence before operating independently.

What does a trainee excavator operator do in mining?

A Trainee Excavator Operator in mining is responsible for learning how to safely and efficiently operate heavy machinery, specifically excavators, to move earth, rock, and other materials at mining sites. Their duties often include assisting with site preparation, following instructions from experienced operators or supervisors, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Trainees typically undergo on-the-job training and may also participate in classroom-based learning to understand the equipment and safety procedures. As they gain experience, they take on more responsibility and may eventually operate excavators independently.

What is the difference between Trainee Excavator Operator Mining vs Trainee Loader Operator Mining?

AspectTrainee Excavator Operator MiningTrainee Loader Operator Mining
Required CertificationsHigh-Risk Work License, Excavator TicketHigh-Risk Work License, Loader Ticket
Work EnvironmentOpen-pit mines, construction sitesOpen-pit mines, construction sites
Industry UsageCommonly used for digging, trenching, and material handlingUsed for loading, moving materials, and stockpiling

Both roles require similar certifications and work in open-pit mining environments. The main difference lies in the equipment operated: excavator operators focus on digging and trenching, while loader operators handle loading and moving materials. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right training and career path in mining operations.

What are popular job titles related to Trainee Excavator Operator Mining jobs in Reston, VA? For Trainee Excavator Operator Mining jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Excavator Operator Mining jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Excavator Operator Mining jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Trainee Excavator Operator Mining jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Trainee Excavator Operator Mining job openings:
Trainee Excavator Operator Mining jobs near you

Land Surveyor (Independence Excavating)

DiGeronimo Companies

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Land Surveyor

Independence Excavating is looking to hire a full time Land Surveyor that will be responsible for preparing and reviewing data for field crews. The Surveyor will be preparing and approving cut sheets and as-builts on construction projects.

Who is IX?

From breaking ground to the finished project, our team has been laying the groundwork for excellence on heavy civil construction and demolition projects for over 70 years. We combine innovations of industry with decades of successfully completed projects, proving we are a value-added partner from the ground up! Over six decades, Independence Excavating has established a team of construction professionals that sets us apart from other contractors. To learn more, visit our website: https://www.indexc.com/

What do we believe in?

PEOPLE:

Provide a safe, family-oriented environment. Commitment to integrity. Protect our most valuable assets.

PERFORMANCE:

Always deliver the highest quality. Find solutions. Provide value to our partners.

COMMUNITY:

Positively impact the communities we serve. Give back. Leave the world a better place than we found it.

A typical day looks like:

  • Producing and verifying cut sheets
  • Overseeing and coordinating the initial layout at the job site and provides continuous monitoring of the same
  • Providing work control lines and elevations that are required for accurate measurement and correct installation of material by crafts, i.e.,
  • Providing checking of as-built conditions that require the use of surveying techniques
  • Providing topographic and cross-section surveys as required for planning and payment quantities
  • Supervising Surveying Technician and Surveying Trainee personnel
  • Regularly making important decisions on interpreting drawings and specifications and applying them to the physical layout at the job site.

Do you have what it takes?

  • Minimum HS Diploma. Additional training and/or related certificate preferred
  • Minimum five years of previous related experience
  • Comfort level with Trimble GPS equipment, Trimble machine control, Trimble total station setup, ect.
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Ability to build surfaces for GPS equipment
  • Utilize and have a thorough understanding of surveying practices and equipment use
  • Must have good math skills
  • Must be able to verbally communicate instructions and plans well with all internal and external contacts
  • Must be able to effectively communicate rationale behind decisions made
  • Work must be performed carefully and with great accuracy
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • This is a field and office position- willingness to work outside and in all weather conditions
  • Local travel to job sites required
  • Occasional overtime may be necessary during peak times

Why IX?

  • Weekly Competitive Pay!
  • Excellent Benefits:
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
    • FSA & HSA
    • Life Insurance + Optional Family Life Insurance
    • Short-term and Long-term Disability
    • Wellness Incentive Program
  • Paid Holidays and PTO
  • 401(k) + Company match
  • Paid corporate training program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Stability and a variety of different roles that provide a path to career advancement
  • Family-owned and operated since 1956

Independence Excavating, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value workplace diversity and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.