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Excavating Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench boxes, manholes, and foundations, as well as general earthwork and grading. The ideal candidate has strong experience ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench boxes, manholes, and foundations, as well as general earthwork and grading. The ideal candidate has strong experience ...

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Excavating information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Kentucky is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.37 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Excavating jobs in Kentucky?

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

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

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Excavating jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Excavating job openings:

Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, and 95% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,844 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Traveling Heavy Civil Project Manager (Independence Excavating)

Independence Excavating

Louisville, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Independence Excavating rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Traveling Heavy Civil Project Manager (Independence Excavating)
Independence Excavating is looking for an accomplished and ambitious Project Manager to join our growing team. As a Project Manager, you will manage all aspects of the assigned project, including budgets, schedules, submittals, RFI's, contracts, purchase orders as well as being comfortable and professional with owner interaction. This position will report to the Senior Project Manager.
Who is IX?
From breaking ground to the finished project, our team has been laying the groundwork for excellence on heavy civil construction and demolition projects for over 70 years. We combine innovations of industry with decades of successfully completed projects, proving we are a value-added partner from the ground up! Over six decades, Independence Excavating has established a team of construction professionals that sets us apart from other contractors. To learn more, visit our website: https://www.indexc.com/
What do we believe in?
PEOPLE:
Provide a safe, family-oriented environment. Commitment to integrity. Protect our most valuable assets.
PERFORMANCE:
Always deliver the highest quality. Find solutions. Provide value to our partners.
COMMUNITY:
Positively impact the communities we serve. Give back. Leave the world a better place than we found it.
A typical day looks like:
  • Preparing, reviewing, and returning submittals for items to be manufactured or provided
  • Working with Superintendent/Operation Manager to determine equipment & crew needs
  • Assembling job cost codes for projects and regularly update
  • Coordinating subcontractors and material deliveries on major items
  • Reviewing and approving subcontractor/supplier estimates & invoices
  • Negotiating, closing, and coordinating all Extra Work Orders and COR's for changes in project scope
  • Monitoring production, resource utilization and overall job cost versus estimated cost to maintain profit margin on projects
  • Preparing monthly job cost/profit projections

Do you have what it takes?
  • High School Diploma or equivalent is required and Associates or Bachelor's degree in related field is preferred
  • At least 5 years' experience working primarily in the management of large commercial construction projects
  • Must have strong organizational skills in order to handle the variety of tasks assigned
  • Must develop positive working relationships with owners and project engineers as well as local government offices
  • Demonstrated ability to manage people, budget, schedule, and quality of work at multiple construction sites
  • Must be competent to perform complete and accurate project take-offs and estimates
  • Must be willing and able to travel up to 100%

Why IX?
  • Weekly Competitive Pay!
  • Excellent Benefits:
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
    • FSA & HSA
    • Life Insurance + Optional Family Life Insurance
    • Short-term and Long-term Disability
    • Wellness Incentive Program
  • Paid Holidays and PTO
  • 401(k) + Company match
  • Paid corporate training program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Stability and a variety of different roles that provide a path to career advancement
  • Family-owned and operated since 1956

Independence Excavating, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value workplace diversity and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.

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