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Digging Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

CDB Utility

Underground Crew Members

Algona, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Hand digging of potholes along a route. * Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities and limitations, and with efficient and safe digging procedures in a given application. * Observe ...

CDB Utility

Underground Crew Members

Davenport, IA · On-site

$14 - $18.25/hr

Hand digging of potholes along a route. * Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities and limitations, and with efficient and safe digging procedures in a given application. * Observe ...

Skilled Trades Services

Construction Laborer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

Will also be doing underground work, digging ditches, digging trenches, laying pipe, laying concrete, installing screw pipe, shoveling rock, MANUEL LABOR WORK . This is a 6 month plus project but for ...

Phoenix Global

Hot Pit Loader Operator

Wilton, IA · On-site

$25/hr

Safely operate loaders during slag pit digging, quenching, and maintenance activities * Perform pre-shift equipment inspections and conduct a 360 degree walk-around visual inspection of the hot pit ...

Dycom Industries, Inc.

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

Abode Construction, Inc.

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Marion, IA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Works with and assists the line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting material, tools, equipment, and any related work with a backhoe, road grater or front-end loader. * Performs routine ...

Robert Half

Cable Technician

Ames, IA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Work closely with construction and maintenance crews to communicate marked areas and promote safe digging practices. * Perform field assignments outdoors across varying site and weather conditions ...

Union Pacific

Track Laborer - Regional - Onawa, IA

Onawa, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

This may involve digging holes and trenches. * Executing various track maintenance tasks, repairs, and installations, which may involve operating heavy equipment. * Maintaining the track beds by ...

ForceSource

Pipe Layer

Carlisle, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Strong digging skills with experience in trench excavation. * Familiarity with concrete forming processes is a plus. Join our team as a Pipelayer and contribute to essential infrastructure projects ...

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All JobsDigging JobsDigging Jobs in Iowa

Digging information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$16

$22

How much do digging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for digging in Iowa is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a digging?

A Digging job involves using tools or machinery to excavate soil, sand, or other materials for construction, landscaping, utility installation, or archaeological purposes. Workers may operate hand tools like shovels or use heavy equipment such as excavators. Physical strength and endurance are often required, as well as knowledge of safety protocols. Digging jobs can be found in industries like construction, agriculture, and mining.

What does a digging do?

A typical day in a Digging role involves preparing worksites, operating manual and powered digging equipment, and ensuring trenches or holes meet specified dimensions and safety standards. Team members often collaborate closely with supervisors, utility locators, and other crew members to coordinate tasks and avoid hazards such as underground cables or pipelines. The work may be physically demanding and could take place outdoors in various weather conditions. Attention to safety protocols and clear communication with the team are important aspects throughout the workday.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the digging position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Digging position, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and experience with manual and mechanical earth-moving techniques, often gained through on-the-job training or vocational courses. Familiarity with excavation tools such as shovels, trenchers, backhoes, and safety gear is typically required, along with knowledge of workplace safety standards like OSHA regulations. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and a commitment to following instructions help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure safe and efficient digging operations, prevent accidents, and support larger construction or utility projects.

What jobs require digging?

Jobs that require digging include construction laborers, landscapers, miners, utility workers installing underground cables or pipes, and archaeological excavators. These roles often involve using tools like shovels, backhoes, or trenchers and may require safety training and physical stamina.

What job categories do people searching Digging jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Digging jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Digging jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Digging job openings:

Digging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Digging job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,438 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Underground Crew Members

Algona, IA • On-site

CDB Utility
See more jobs at CDB Utilityexternal

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description



CDB is looking for experienced laborers and equipment operators to join our crews in the underground utility construction industry.   Work is 100% outside, exposed to all elements. This project is projected to last a year.


Some of the experience we are looking for includes:

  • Ability to operate power machinery, such as power shovels, horizontal directional drills, mini-excavators, hydro-vac or backhoes.  Hand digging of potholes along a route.
  • Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities and limitations, and with efficient and safe digging procedures in a given application.  
  • Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines to ensure work is performed to specifications. 
  • Operate machinery to perform activities such as backfilling excavations, vibrating or breaking rock or concrete, or directional drill boring. 
  • Receive written or oral instructions regarding material movement or excavation. 
  • Move materials over short distances, such as around a construction site, or to and from shop yard. 
  • Conduct daily maintenance inspections on vehicles and equipment. 
  • Other duties as assigned. 


Must have:

  • Valid driver's license.  Preference will be given to those with a Class A CDL.
  • 2+ years of experience operating equipment in a construction environment.