ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trainee Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTrainee Excavator Operator Jobs

Trainee Excavator Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do trainee excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee 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 does a Trainee Excavator Operator do?

A Trainee Excavator Operator learns how to safely and efficiently operate excavators and other heavy machinery on construction sites. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with digging, lifting, and moving earth or materials, under the guidance of experienced operators. Trainees receive on-the-job training to develop their skills, understand safety procedures, and perform basic maintenance on equipment. This role is an entry-level position that prepares individuals for more advanced operator roles.

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

AspectTrainee Excavator OperatorExcavator Operator
CertificationsBasic training, learner's permitFull operating license or certification
Work ExperienceEntry-level, supervised trainingExperienced, independent operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites under supervisionConstruction, landscaping, mining sites
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with excavation tasks, learn operation skillsOperate excavator independently, complete projects

The main difference between a Trainee Excavator Operator and an Excavator Operator is experience and certification level. Trainees are in training, working under supervision, while excavator operators are fully qualified and independently handle excavation tasks. Both roles are essential in construction projects, with trainees gaining skills to advance to full operator status.

What are some typical challenges a Trainee Excavator Operator might face during their initial months on the job?

As a Trainee Excavator Operator, you may encounter challenges such as mastering the precise operation of heavy machinery in variable site conditions and developing strong spatial awareness for safe digging. Adapting to different types of excavators and learning site safety protocols are also common hurdles. Teamwork is essential, as you'll often coordinate with site supervisors, ground workers, and other equipment operators. With time and guidance from experienced colleagues, these challenges become valuable learning experiences that build your confidence and skill set.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Excavator Operator, you need a basic understanding of construction site safety, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with excavator controls, GPS machine guidance systems, and holding or working towards relevant certifications such as a CPCS or NPORS card are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are critical to ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation of heavy machinery on construction sites.
More about Trainee Excavator Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Excavator Operator jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Excavator Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Excavator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Excavator Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Excavator Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Excavator Operator jobs are:
Trainee Excavator Operator jobs near you
Heavy Equipment Operator/Driller Trainee (Construction)

Heavy Equipment Operator/Driller Trainee (Construction)

Maine Drilling & Blasting Inc

Scranton, PA

$22/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Maine Drilling & Blasting rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Do you have experience operating heavy construction equipment such as backhoe, skid steer, excavators, or loaders? Do you want to learn the drilling and blasting industry with a stable, growing, majority employee-owned company? If you answered YES to these questions, then we want to meet you!

Come work with the best! At Maine Drilling & Blasting we work with the unity of family and the determination of business owners. We provide a unique and generous array of benefits including two retirement plans, an Employer-contributed Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and company matched 401(k). In addition to health, dental, vision, life, and disability benefits, we also offer training and development opportunities. The sky is the limit, come rock your career at MD&B!

DRILLER TRAINEE-CONSTRUCTION

Ability to perform job specific instruction provided by Superintendents, Blasting Supervisor or Drill Operators. Individuals must be safety-minded and able to work well in varying weather environments. Out of town travel and overtime may be required.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform daily maintenance activities required for safe, efficient operation of assigned equipment
  • Adhere to Company Safety Policies and Procedures
  • Ability to learn drill patterns and terminology then execute drill pattern and layout as established by the Blaster Foreman
  • Inventory accessories, understand cost of accessories, maintenance drill accessories
  • Communicate problems and terrain conditions to the Blaster/Foreman
  • Understand the Field Accounting system and accurately complete and submit timely paperwork: drill reports, hole sheets, and a signed timecard
  • Physical agility
  • Coordinate supplies with Blaster
  • Carry all tools and supplies

  • Participate in meetings as needed: Foreman's, Safety, Job Specific, and Daily Heads-Up

  • Complete Driller I training within designated period
  • Ability to work unsupervised while maintaining a sense of urgency

  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Equipment operating experience is helpful (earth moving construction equipment, farm equipment, timber harvesting equipment, etc.)
  • Valid Driver's License with own transportation
  • Experience as construction laborer
  • Must hold a high level of common sense relative to equipment and machinery operation
  • Mechanical aptitude based on past experience around equipment, motors, hydraulic, electrical systems, desired
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen
  • Must successfully complete a background screening for ATF

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to perform essential functions of the position
  • Ability to lift 50 – 100 lbs., 30 – 40% of the time
  • Work on uneven and loose surfaces in varying weather conditions
  • Stooping and bending 30-40% of the time
  • Physical agility

Starting Pay: $20.00-$22.00 per hour plus $150/week travel allowance. Pay increase incentives as you train and hit target deliverables!

Skeptical about advancement opportunities? Check out these videos:

  • Dante (CST) talks about what it’s like to work at MD&B: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrSWPW4Qbgo
  • Dan (CEO) talks about career advancement opportunities: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvloIft9KPY

Does this sound like you? If it does, then go ahead and hit that APPLY button because we cannot wait to meet you!

What Maine Drilling & Blasting employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom