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Excavating Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pirc-Tobin

Main Line Excavator Operator/Laborer

Alburnett, IA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

Demonstrate the ability to safely excavate around underground utilities using an excavator, following utility locates, spotter guidance, and company safety procedures. * Have the ability to perform ...

Abode Construction, Inc.

Excavation Foreman

Marion, IA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

The Foreman provides support to the Excavation Director, in addition to leading a crew in guidance and assistance to the other Excavation and heavy equipment operators. Ideally we would prefer our ...

Iowa Trenchless

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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

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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.

Abode Construction, Inc.

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Excavation Pipelayer / Laborer

Marion, IA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

... Excavation and heavy equipment operators. Essential Functions Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. * Reports to shop at ...

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All JobsExcavating JobsExcavating Jobs in Iowa

Excavating information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Iowa is $22.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an excavating job?

Excavating jobs involve the removal of earth, rock, or other materials from a site to create space for construction, landscaping, or mining projects. Workers use heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and backhoes to dig foundations, trenches, or clear land. These jobs require knowledge of equipment operation, safety protocols, and the ability to read site plans. Excavating professionals often work on residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, contributing to the initial phases of building and development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavator operator?

Excavator Operators need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety regulations, and often require a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training or certification. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, hydraulic machinery, and maintenance tools is typically necessary for efficient work. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These skills and qualifications ensure safe excavation, prevent site accidents, and contribute to timely and precise project completion.

What are some common challenges faced by excavating professionals on construction sites?

Excavating professionals often encounter challenges such as unexpected underground utilities, varying soil conditions, and adverse weather that can impact project timelines. Effective communication with project managers, utility companies, and other trades is essential to address these issues promptly and safely. Additionally, strict adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations is crucial, as excavation work carries significant risk. Working collaboratively within a team helps mitigate these challenges and ensures projects proceed efficiently.

What is the difference between Excavating vs Demolition?

AspectExcavatingDemolition
Primary FocusDigging, earthmoving, site preparationBreaking down and removing structures
Skills & CertificationsOperating heavy machinery, safety trainingHeavy equipment operation, safety protocols
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoorConstruction, industrial, sometimes indoor
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsBuilding removal, renovation projects

Excavating involves earthmoving and site preparation, while demolition focuses on tearing down existing structures. Both roles require heavy machinery operation and safety certifications, but they serve different project needs within the construction industry.

Is excavation a good career?

Excavating is a physically demanding job that involves operating heavy machinery and working outdoors, often in challenging conditions. It offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with relevant certifications and skills in equipment operation and safety protocols. The career can lead to advancement into supervisory roles or specialized construction positions.

Is there good money in excavation?

Excavating is generally a well-paying trade, with wages depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled excavators who operate heavy machinery and have safety training tend to earn higher wages, and the job often offers opportunities for overtime and advancement.

What are popular job titles related to Excavating jobs in Iowa?

For Excavating jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Excavating job openings:

Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,334 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Equipment Operator (Excavator - Utility Crew)

Absolute Group

Granger, IA • On-site

$26 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Excavator Operator for underground utility installation. The successful candidate will have experience with main line utility work. Operators are responsible for the safe operation of multiple-sized excavators for underground infrastructure construction projects. Excavator Operators are also responsible for excavating, locating existing utilities, use of trench shoring equipment, handling materials, and equipment care on seasonal projects. Qualified candidates must be able to think critically and use good judgement to detect, minimize, and eliminate hazards on construction projects. This position requires compliance with company safety and OSHA regulations and includes continuous training.
Job Requirements: The ideal candidate will have 3 years of utility excavator operating experience and a valid driver's license. All candidates must have the ability to show up to work on time, possess a strong work ethic, show a willingness to learn, and have a positive attitude.
About the Utility Division
Utility is a Division of Absolute Group that specializes in residential, commercial, and municipal infrastructure construction. The Utility Division provides full site development, including sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer, grading and earthwork. The Utility Division also offers a variety of groundwork services like trucking, commercial footing excavation and backfill, and finish grading.
The Absolute Group Difference
The Absolute Group prides itself in its company core values, and we like to think it's one of the many things that sets us apart from the rest of the field. Our team is Driven, taking on each task with a "can-do" attitude and always putting our People First, whether that's who we're working with day-to-day or the employees that keep our company up and running. We're nothing without our customers, our team, our families, even our competitors, and remembering this is key to keeping us Respectful and Humble in all that we do. We're Determined to be Dependable, to be relied on, and we don't stop until the job is done. And, of course, we're thinkers. It's our Fearless Forward-Thinking that saves us time and money and keeps us up with the times.
Hard Work Pays Off
When you work hard for us, we work hard for you. And that's exactly why we offer our crews the most competitive benefits package the construction industry has to offer. As an Absolute Group employee, you will receive:
  • Competitive pay
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Life insurance coverage
  • Voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, Short-term and Long-term insurance coverage
  • Family-focused environment
  • Opportunities for career development and growth
  • Company-sponsored outings and events

Absolute Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

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