ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Construction Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Excavator Operator - Great pay $25-$35

Grimes, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction - Main Line Excavator Operator - to support Auger Boring & Tunneling crew Pay will match level of relevant experience Panora, IA - Travel will be required.

Iowa Trenchless

Be Seen First

Experienced Construction Excavator Operator - Great pay $25-$35

Grimes, IA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

$1000 SIGNING BONUS Utility Construction - Main Line Excavator Operator - to support Auger Boring & Tunneling crew Pay will match level of relevant experience Panora, IA - Travel will be required.

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 ...

next page

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 Aug 5, 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 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 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 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 is a construction operator?

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 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, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,395 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

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

Iowa Trenchless

Adel, IA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

$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. 1 week on average. Company pays 100% of all travel.

About Us:
Iowa Trenchless is a leading underground construction contractor specializing in auger-boring, tunneling, and pipe-jacking. We're growing and looking for experienced trenchless construction professionals to join our team. If you have a strong work ethic, experience with trenchless equipment, and a passion for underground infrastructure projects, we want to hear from you!

Positions Available:

  • Trenchless Construction Technician
  • Auger-Boring Operator
  • Tunneling Equipment Operator
  • Pipe Jacking Specialist
  • Equipment Maintenance Technician

What You’ll Do:

  • Excavation
  • Operate and maintain auger-boring, tunneling, and pipe-jacking equipment.
  • Perform underground utility installations using trenchless construction methods.
  • Work with a team to safely and efficiently complete tunneling projects.
  • Troubleshoot and repair trenchless equipment as needed.
  • Ensure job site safety and compliance with all industry standards.

What You Bring:

✅ Experience with trenchless construction equipment (auger boring, pipe jacking, microtunneling, etc.).
✅ Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot equipment.
✅ Hardworking, dependable, and team-oriented attitude.
✅ Ability to lead or follow instructions in a fast-paced environment.
✅ Willingness to travel for projects when needed.

What We Offer:

  • Competitive wages + Bonuses & Profit Sharing
  • 100% Paid Health Insurance + Dental & Vision Options
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Paid Training & Continued Education
  • PPE, Work Clothing & Boot Allowance
  • Paid Holidays & PTO
  • Relocation Assistance to Panora, IA

This is your opportunity to work on some of the most exciting and challenging trenchless projects in the industry. Join Iowa Trenchless and be part of a team that values safety, craftsmanship, and innovation.

Company Description

Iowa Trenchless is a premier underground construction contractor seeking individuals with a great attitude. We offer you competitive wages, Paid Holidays, PTO, per diem, 401K with company match. We pay 100% of our employee's healthcare, and offer dental, vision and disability insurance. We also provide profit sharing, good yearly bonuses, continued education, safety training and apparel (PPE), and work clothing. A valid drivers license is required; construction experience and a CDL is preferred. Training available for qualified candidates.