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Digging Equipment Operator Jobs in Naperville, IL

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company ... Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup. * Work ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description: CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company ... Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup. * Work ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company ... Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup. * Work ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description: CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company ... Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup. * Work ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Job Type Full-time Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour ... Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup. * Work ...

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Job Type Full-time Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour ... Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup. * Work ...

Perform other duties as assigned which could include, but are not limited to, wall construction and finishing, digging, cleaning, operating tools and equipment, moving items, and picking up parts

... marking layout lines, digging post holes, setting posts, mixing and pouring concrete, and ... Experience operating compact heavy equipment like skid steers, bobcats, hydraulic augers, and mini ...

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Digging Equipment Operator information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do digging equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging equipment operator in Naperville, IL is $24.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $27.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a digging equipment operator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a digging equipment operator?

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 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 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 cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Digging Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Digging Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Digging Equipment Operator job openings in Naperville, IL 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 $51,447 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Apprentice Operator I

Hulcher Services Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description

CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I


$26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response

Full-Time |Travel Up to 50% | 24/7 Emergency Response Operations


Turn Your CDL Into a Career


Hulcher Services is looking for motivated individuals with a Class A CDL who are ready to build a career operating specialized heavy equipment used in railroad derailment response and recovery.

This isn't a typical driving job. You'll receive hands-on training while working alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely recover derailed railcars and locomotives using cranes, hydraulic equipment, and other specialized machinery.

If you enjoy challenging work, operating equipment, traveling, and being part of a team that responds when others can't, this is an opportunity unlike any other.


Compensation & Benefits

  • $26.84 - $28.52 Per Hour
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Weekly Pay
  • Company paid benefits 
  • Paid Training
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Full-Time, Year-Round Employment

About Hulcher Services


Hulcher Services is a nationwide leader in railroad derailment response, engineering, track maintenance, environmental services, and disaster recovery. With more than 500 employees operating from over 25 divisions throughout the United States and Mexico, we respond to critical incidents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel.


What You'll Do


As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.


Responsibilities include:

  • Transport specialized heavy equipment using tractor-trailers and escort vehicles.
  • Assist with railroad derailment recovery operations.
  • Learn to operate heavy recovery equipment under the guidance of experienced operators.
  • Handle heavy steel chains, wire rope, rigging equipment, lifting blocks, and recovery tools.
  • Climb on and beneath railcars and locomotives during recovery operations.
  • Perform equipment setup, maintenance, cleaning, and inspections.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, and welding equipment.
  • Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup.
  • Work safely around heavy equipment, active railroads, bridges, waterways, and industrial environments.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and operational standards.



Requirements

What We're Looking For


We're looking for dependable individuals who enjoy hands-on work and are ready to build a long-term career in heavy equipment and railroad operations.

  • Valid Class A CDL with no restrictions
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel up to 50%
  • Willingness to work in a 24/7 emergency response environment
  • Ability to pass required background screenings and pre-employment requirements
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and 50 pounds frequently
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Comfortable working at heights exceeding 25 feet and around water when required

Experience in any of the following is a plus:

  • Heavy Equipment Operation
  • Construction
  • Truck Driving
  • Rigging
  • Railroad
  • Crane Operations
  • Welding
  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Oil & Gas
  • Utilities
  • Military
  • Agriculture
  • Work Schedule

This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means flexibility is essential.

  • Standard work schedule Monday through Friday
  • 24/7 on-call rotation for emergency derailment response
  • Travel required throughout the assigned territory
  • Overtime available during emergency response operations

Why Join Hulcher Services?


Few careers offer the opportunity to operate specialized heavy equipment while helping restore critical railroad infrastructure across North America.

At Hulcher Services, you'll receive hands-on training, work alongside experienced professionals, earn excellent company paid benefits, and build a career in a unique industry where your skills make an immediate impact.

If you're looking for more than just another CDL driving job and want a career with challenge, stability, and advancement opportunities, apply today and become part of the Hulcher Services team.