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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Your role will be to support the project needs, such as digging trench, HDPE pipe fusion, dirt ... Clean up work areas, clean and fuel vehicles, and equipment as necessary * Available to work ...

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Your role will be to support the project needs, such as digging trench, HDPE pipe fusion, dirt ... Clean up work areas, clean and fuel vehicles, and equipment as necessary * Available to work ...

Starting at $18 and up DOE CDB is looking for experienced laborers and equipment operators to join ... Hand digging of potholes along a route. * Become familiar with digging plans ...

Underground Laborer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Perform construction tasks including loading, delivery, digging, and operating equipment * Install underground telecommunications cabling * Operate construction equipment, and maintain work areas

Laborer Telecom Underground

Marion, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Perform construction tasks including loading, delivery, digging, and operating equipment * Install underground telecommunications cabling * Operate construction equipment, and maintain work areas

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding. * Digging ...

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding. * Digging ...

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding. * Digging ...

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Digging Equipment Operator information

What are some common challenges faced by Digging Equipment Operators on construction sites?

Digging Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven job sites, and maintaining equipment performance under demanding circumstances. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure safety and project efficiency. Operators must also stay vigilant about underground utilities and adapt quickly to changes in site plans, making flexibility and attention to detail essential for success in this role.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who operate specialized machinery such as crane or heavy excavator operators, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries like oil and gas or large-scale construction. These roles can earn six-figure salaries, particularly in regions with a high cost of living or complex projects.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators, including digging equipment operators, can earn high wages depending on experience, specialization, and location. The highest-paid operators typically work in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators in industries like oil and gas or construction, with annual salaries reaching over $70,000 to $100,000 or more. Advanced certifications and operating complex machinery can increase earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Digging Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of safety protocols, and experience operating heavy machinery, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as backhoes, excavators, and trenchers, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training, are commonly required. Attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and effective communication enhance performance and safety on the job site. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe, and accurate excavation work, minimizing risks and project delays.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

For a Digging Equipment Operator, high daily pay of around $700 is typically associated with experienced professionals working in construction, excavation, or heavy civil projects, often requiring specialized skills, certifications, and working in demanding environments. Such pay rates are common for unionized or highly skilled operators with extensive experience and often involve overtime or long shifts.

What is the top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand construction or industrial environments.

What is the difference between Digging Equipment Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectDigging Equipment OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL) often required, OSHA safety trainingOSHA safety training, sometimes specific excavator certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, demolition, landscaping
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, mining firms, utility contractorsConstruction firms, excavation services, landscaping companies

Both roles involve operating heavy machinery for digging tasks, often requiring similar certifications and working in construction or excavation environments. The term "Excavator Operator" specifically refers to operating excavators, while "Digging Equipment Operator" can encompass a broader range of machinery. However, in many cases, these titles are used interchangeably, with the primary focus on excavation work.

What are digging equipment operators?

Digging equipment operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery such as excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and other equipment used for digging and earthmoving tasks. They work on construction sites, road projects, utility installations, and other infrastructure projects, ensuring that trenches, foundations, and holes are dug safely and accurately according to project specifications. These operators are trained to handle complex machinery, perform routine maintenance, and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents and equipment damage.
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:
Telecom Construction Equipment Operator- Marion, IA

Telecom Construction Equipment Operator- Marion, IA

Dycom Industries, Inc.

Marion, IA • On-site

$22.25 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Dycom Industries rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Marion, IA
Workplace Type: Field
Employment Type: Hourly
Discover a more connected career
At TelCom Construction, LLC, as an Equipment Operator, you will drive and manage heavy machinery to build and maintain critical phone, internet, and data infrastructure. You will be responsible for preparing job sites, safely digging trenches and aerial installation, and laying the physical conduit required for high-speed fiber optic and broadband networks.
Connecting you to great benefits
  • Weekly Paychecks
  • Paid Time Off, Parental Leave, and Holidays
  • Insurance (including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, disability, life insurance)
  • 401(k) w/ Company Match
  • Stock Purchase Plan
  • Education Reimbursement
  • Legal Insurance
  • Discounts on gym memberships, pet insurance, and much more!

What you'll do
  • Attend new site Job Safety Analysis
  • Safely operate and control assigned equipment
  • Dig pits, trenches or potholes as directed by job plan
  • Responsible for the site set-up and clean-up
  • Load and unload tools, materials and equipment from truck
  • Set up a safety perimeter
  • Perform work in all weather conditions
  • Other duties as assigned

What you'll need
  • To be 18 years of age or older
  • Authorization to work in the United States for this company
  • High School Diploma, GED equivalent, or relevant work experience
  • Valid State driver's license (cannot be Provisional), including an acceptable driving record
  • Experience with drill set up and design processes, is preferred

Physical abilities & exposures
  • Routinely: work alone in remote locations with arms above shoulder level, operate vehicle and heavy machinery, squeeze, fine hand motions, bend, stoop, stand, walk, climb stairs and lift greater than 55 pounds
  • Occasionally: work in confined spaces, use ladder, keyboard and mouse

Why grow your career with us
Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training, supportive environment, and responsive leadership connect you to work with purpose. Our commitment to you extends beyond professional development to a safety-first culture that ensures you can do what you do best, with peace of mind.
Building stronger solutions together
Our company is an equal-opportunity employer - we are committed to providing a work environment where everyone can thrive, grow, and feel connected.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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