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Construction Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Liberty

Construction Operator

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Natural gas construction and/or service field experience is preferred. * Must obtain and maintain minimum Operator Qualifications (OQs) and classroom training for position and any other required OQs ...

Liberty Utilities Co.

Construction Operator

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Natural gas construction and/or service field experience is preferred. * Must obtain and maintain minimum Operator Qualifications (OQs) and classroom training for position and any other required OQs ...

Liberty Utilities Co.

Construction Operator

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Natural gas construction and/or service field experience is preferred. * Must obtain and maintain minimum Operator Qualifications (OQs) and classroom training for position and any other required OQs ...

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Operator/Laborer - Great pay $25-$35

Grimes, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction Worker - Equipment Operator - Auger Boring & Tunneling Pay range is what experience you have Panora, IA - Travel will be required. Typically less than 2 weeks ...

Signing bonus

Urgent

Training provided

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Operator/Laborer - Great pay $25-$35

Panora, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction Worker - Equipment Operator - Auger Boring & Tunneling Pay range is what experience you have Panora, IA - Travel will be required. Typically less than 2 weeks ...

Signing bonus

Urgent

Training provided

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Operator/Laborer - Great pay $25-$35

Adel, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction Worker - Equipment Operator - Auger Boring & Tunneling Pay range is what experience you have Panora, IA - Travel will be required. Typically less than 2 weeks ...

Signing bonus

Urgent

Training provided

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Operator/Laborer - Great pay $25-$35

Panora, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction Worker - Equipment Operator - Auger Boring & Tunneling Pay range is what experience you have Panora, IA - Travel will be required. Typically less than 2 weeks ...

Signing bonus

Urgent

Training provided

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Operator/Laborer - Great pay $25-$35

Adel, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction Worker - Equipment Operator - Auger Boring & Tunneling Pay range is what experience you have Panora, IA - Travel will be required. Typically less than 2 weeks ...

Signing bonus

Urgent

Training provided

Midwest Vac Professionals

Be Seen First

Construction Equipment Operator (CDL Preferred)

Adel, IA · On-site

$22/hr

$500 SIGNING BONUS Construction Truck Driver / Operator - Utility Work - Vacuum Truck Willing to TRAIN - FULL benefits. 100% paid health insurance. Midwest Vac Professionals is a locally owned leader ...

Woodruff Construction

Construction Craftsperson

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Signal operators * Additional construction-related tasks, as assigned Benefits: At Woodruff, we attribute our success to the investment and retention of our quality employees. Woodruff values its ...

Woodruff Construction

Construction Craftsperson

Ames, IA · On-site

$18/hr

Signal operators * Additional construction-related tasks, as assigned Benefits: At Woodruff, we attribute our success to the investment and retention of our quality employees. Woodruff values its ...

Story Construction

Construction Worker

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Perform building construction tasks including concrete, general carpentry, and finishes; operating an array of hand tools, power tools, and heavy equipment, with training. * Assist in the layout ...

Story Construction

Construction Worker

Sioux City, IA

$17.75 - $24/hr

Perform building construction tasks including concrete, general carpentry, and finishes; operating an array of hand tools, power tools, and heavy equipment, with training. * Assist in the layout ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction Operator JobsConstruction Operator Jobs in Iowa

Construction Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do construction operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction operator in Iowa is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid operator?

The highest paid construction operators are typically crane operators, heavy equipment operators, and specialized machinery operators, especially those with extensive experience, certifications, and skills in complex equipment. Salaries can vary based on location, industry demand, and level of expertise, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually. Advanced certifications and operating high-demand equipment often lead to higher compensation.

What is the difference between Construction Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectConstruction OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor projectsConstruction sites, outdoor projects
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsConstruction, industrial, and infrastructure projects

Construction Operators and Equipment Operators often share similar credentials and work environments, primarily working outdoors on construction sites. However, Construction Operators typically operate a broader range of heavy machinery and may be involved in more complex tasks related to construction projects, while Equipment Operators focus on specific equipment operation. Both roles are essential in the construction industry and often overlap in job functions and skills.

What is an operator in construction?

A construction operator is a skilled worker responsible for operating heavy machinery and equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes on construction sites. They must have technical knowledge, often hold certifications, and follow safety protocols to ensure efficient and safe project completion.

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

To thrive as a Construction Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, basic construction principles, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and bulldozers, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), are typically required. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team set exceptional operators apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality construction work on site.

What is the highest paid job in construction?

The highest paid jobs in construction are often project managers, construction executives, or specialized roles like heavy equipment operators with extensive experience. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, and management responsibilities, leading to higher salaries compared to other construction roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Construction Operators on job sites, and how can they be addressed?

Construction Operators often encounter challenges such as working with heavy machinery in tight or uneven spaces, adapting to changing weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards on busy job sites. These challenges can be managed by staying up-to-date with safety protocols, participating in regular equipment training, and maintaining strong communication with supervisors and team members. Proactively addressing equipment maintenance and being flexible with schedules can also help Construction Operators perform efficiently and safely.

What are Construction Operators?

Construction Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery and equipment at construction sites. Their responsibilities include controlling machines such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and loaders to move earth, lift materials, and assist with building structures. They must follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance on equipment, and work closely with other construction team members. Construction Operators play a crucial role in ensuring projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Construction operators typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, specialized medical, legal, or technology roles. Some highly experienced or specialized construction managers or project directors may approach this level, especially with significant experience, certifications, and large-scale projects. Most construction roles offer lower base salaries, but earnings can increase with overtime, bonuses, and project size.
What are popular job titles related to Construction Operator jobs in Iowa? For Construction Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Construction Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Construction Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Construction Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Construction Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Construction Operator jobs in IA? For Construction Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Construction Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,395 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Construction Operator

Construction Operator

Liberty

Keokuk, IA • On-site

$19.25 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (AQN), parent company of Liberty, is a diversified international generation, transmission, and distribution utility. AQN is committed to providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective energy and water solutions through our portfolio of utility investments to over one million customer connections, largely in the United States and Canada.

 

At Algonquin, our vision is to be the most trusted utility service provider in North America – a premium regulated utility, known for our customer focus, commitment to sustainability, and strong community partnerships. Our employees are at the heart of that vision. We believe that when people are empowered to learn, grow, and contribute their ideas, we can achieve remarkable results together.

 

We are building a culture that values integrity, inclusivity, and innovation. By joining Algonquin, you’ll be part of a team that is shaping the future of energy and water, while creating long-term value for our customers, communities, employees, and shareholders.

Purpose

Responsible for performing construction and maintenance activities on transmission and distribution systems and facilities as applicable.   Performs such work in accordance with Company, regulatory and safety procedures.

Keokuk, IA

This position has a living requirement of living within 10 miles of a geographic radius of the Keokuk facility and must reside in Iowa.

Accountabilities
  • Assists in the installation and maintenance of natural gas lines, meters and regulators. 
  • Assists in conducting leakage surveys.  Reads maps, locates underground natural gas lines, classifies natural gas leaks, operates combustible natural gas indicators and flame ionization units.
  • Operates and maintains heavy and/or specialized equipment and tools.
  • May assist in welding operations.
  • May assist in the installation and maintenance of cathodic protection systems.
  • Performs activities to ensure responsiveness to natural gas and other emergencies.
  • Completes and maintains accurate records and reports to comply with Company and regulatory requirements.
  • May be required to hold stand-by duty, work shifts, holidays, weekends, emergency call outs, and occasional extensive hours. 
  • Is subject to reporting outside regular work area.
  • Identifies, addresses, and reports safety and encroachment issues to their resolution and completion.
  • Is responsible for the safe operation and inspection of assigned Company vehicles and equipment.
  • Demonstrates support for and adheres to the Company’s values, strategies, policies and procedures and exhibits the core values, Customer Service, Safety and the Company’s Code of Conduct both as an individual contributor, team member and/or leader of others.
  • Must become familiar with the contents of the Safety Manual, live by the spirit of its intent and become involved in creating and maintaining a safe working environment.  Must complete all required safety training.
Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent and
  • Natural gas construction and/or service field experience is preferred.
  • Must obtain and maintain minimum Operator Qualifications (OQs) and classroom training for position and any other required OQs and classroom training or certifications within six months.
  • Requires valid driver’s license in accordance with Company standards. May require CDL, if required see Driver’s Qualification policy.
  • Must obtain and maintain a Competent Person certificate within 6 months.
  • May require welding certification.
  • Requires ability to utilize the Company’s internet/intranet web site and available resources for data entry, reference and/or retrieval tasks.
  • Requires the ability to communicate with internal/external customers to obtain and/or provide explanations and/or information.
  • Works outdoors in all types of weather and may be exposed to extremes of climate and temperatures, high noise levels, rough terrain, and occasional work on ladders, roofs, attics, and under houses as well as confined spaces. 
  • May require overnight travel.
  • May have residence requirement due to call-out response time.
  • Works as an individual contributor and/or as member of a team. Requires occasionally performing activities including, but not limited to, bending, stooping, grasping, reaching, twisting, turning and/or lifting.
  • Requires the acute sense of sight and hearing (corrected or uncorrected) and strong sense of smell.
  • Must be able to lift tools, equipment and materials up to and including 60 pounds.
  • As a Safety-Sensitive position, pre and post-employment screenings, including but not limited to drug testing as outlined by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Pipeline & Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), and motor vehicle record (MVR) background checks are required.

Our purpose is sustaining energy and water for life, and it is demonstrated in everything we do as a business and as an employee team.

As the successful candidate

Our Mission

We provide safe, secure, reliable, cost-effective and sustainable energy and water solutions. Our mission is how we create value as an organization—it is what drives us every day to fulfill our purpose.

Our Vision

We better the lives of our customers and communities. Our vision is what we see as possible. It's where we aspire to be, what we want to achieve and how we'll make an impact. It guides and keeps us on the right path as we work towards fulfilling our purposes.

Our Guiding Principles

  • Customer Centric
  • Integrity
  • Entrepreneurial
  • Teamwork
  • Owner mindset
  • Outcome focused
  • Continuous learning

What we offer

Collaborative environment with a genuine flexible working policy

401k Plan with matching

Share purchase/match plan

Leadership Development Program

Volunteer paid days off

Employee Assistance Program

Achievement fund

Free parking

Variety of Health & Wellness programs

Discount and Perks program

We are focused on building a diverse and inclusive workforce.  If you are excited about this role and are not confident you meet all the qualification requirements, we encourage you to apply to investigate the opportunity further.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value each person's unique background, diversity, experiences, perspectives and talents.

Full participation of all employees in a safe, healthy and respectful environment is key to individual and company success. We are committed to fully utilizing the abilities of all our employees and expect each of our employees to honour this commitment in their daily responsibilities.

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