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Union Excavator Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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General Labor

Fairport, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

  • PTO

Experience in carpentry, concrete work, demolition, and excavation are essential, though we may be ... After completing four years of college, four years in the local bricklayers union apprenticeship ...

Union Excavator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$25

$41

How much do union excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for union excavator in Rochester, NY is $25.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a union excavator?

To thrive as a Union Excavator, you need proficiency in operating heavy equipment, understanding excavation techniques, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with union apprenticeship training. Familiarity with construction site safety protocols, GPS machine control systems, and the ability to maintain and inspect equipment are important technical aspects. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate with crew members and adapt to changing job site conditions. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and accurate excavation work, which is critical for the success of construction projects.

What challenges do union excavators face on construction sites and how are they addressed?

Union Excavators often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, operating heavy machinery in tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating with multiple trades on busy job sites. Safety is a top priority, so regular training and adherence to strict safety protocols help mitigate risks. Effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is crucial to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and safely. Union support and ongoing professional development also provide resources for overcoming on-the-job challenges.

What is a union excavator?

Union Excavators are skilled heavy equipment operators who are members of a labor union, such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE). They are responsible for operating excavators and similar machinery on construction sites to dig trenches, foundations, and perform site grading. Being part of a union provides these workers with negotiated wages, benefits, job protections, and access to training programs, ensuring a higher standard of safety and professional development. Union Excavators often work on large-scale public infrastructure and private construction projects.

What is the difference between Union Excavator vs Non-Union Excavator?

AspectUnion ExcavatorNon-Union Excavator
CredentialsTypically requires union certifications and training programsMay require similar certifications but less standardized
Work EnvironmentWorks on unionized job sites with collective bargaining agreementsWorks on non-union sites, often with more flexible policies
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large construction firms and projects with union contractsMore prevalent in smaller companies or private projects
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for benefits, wages, and job securityCompared for flexibility, pay rates, and work conditions

Union excavators are part of organized labor, often enjoying higher wages and benefits due to collective bargaining. Non-union excavators may have more flexibility in work hours and pay but might lack the same level of job security and benefits. The choice depends on individual preferences and project requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Union Excavator jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Union Excavator jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Union Excavator jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Union Excavator jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Union Excavator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Union Excavator job openings:

Infographic showing various Union Excavator job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,682 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

General Labor

Quinzi Construction

Fairport, NY • On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 18 days ago

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Job description

We need a Construction Laborer to join our crew. You need to know how to use various hand and power tools and operate large machinery. Experience in carpentry, concrete work, demolition, and excavation are essential, though we may be willing to train candidates who demonstrate they are hard-working, reliable, and can learn quickly. 

Construction Laborer Duties and Responsibilities

  • Help build commercial and residential structures
  • Perform light carpentry work
  • Construct building frames and scaffolding
  • Maintain a clean and safe job site
  • Work with little supervision and as part of a team to complete construction projects

Construction Laborer Requirements and Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED certificate
  • Valid driver's license (CDL is a plus)
  • Significant construction experience
  • Knowledge of carpentry, concrete, demolition, and excavation work
  • Able to use hand and power tools
  • Communication and teamwork skills
  • Physical stamina and manual dexterity

Company Description

Our company was built on the idea that hard work pays off. After completing four years of college, four years in the local bricklayers union apprenticeship program, and four years in corporate America, Peter Quinzi founded our company. Today, our team provides a full range of services, including new construction services & building rehabilitation.