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Excavating Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Insight Global

Construction Laborer

Lafayette, WI · On-site

$35/hr

This role will assist heavy equipment operators and field crews with earthwork, excavation, grading, drainage, utility installation, and roadway construction activities. Experience with dirt work ...

New

Distro

Crew Lead & Equipment Operator

Seymour, WI · On-site

Based in Seymour, Wisconsin, Our Company is a respected leader in utility construction, telecommunications, excavation, and infrastructure services throughout the Midwest. At the company, we know our ...

Distro

Crew Lead & Equipment Operator

Seymour, WI · On-site

Based in Seymour, Wisconsin, Our Company is a respected leader in utility construction, telecommunications, excavation, and infrastructure services throughout the Midwest. At the company, we know our ...

Distro

Crew Lead & Equipment Operator

Seymour, WI · On-site

Based in Seymour, Wisconsin, Our Company is a respected leader in utility construction, telecommunications, excavation, and infrastructure services throughout the Midwest. At the company, we know our ...

Aerotek

Hardscape Foreman

Blue Mounds, WI

$72K - $93K/yr

Operate mini excavators and other heavy equipment, including skid steers and front-end loaders, to support excavation and material handling. * Prepare project sites through excavation, grading, and ...

TD&I Cable

Underground Drill Operator

Roberts, WI

$23 - $30/hr

The Drill Operator must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching, shoring, and excavating around live underground utilities. This role works closely ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Hixton, WI · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects. Key Responsibilities Operate equipment such as directional bore machines ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects. Key Responsibilities Operate equipment such as directional bore machines ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects. Key Responsibilities * Operate equipment such as directional bore machines ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Hixton, WI · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects. Key Responsibilities * Operate equipment such as directional bore machines ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsExcavating JobsExcavating Jobs in Wisconsin

Excavating information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavating in Wisconsin is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $27.16 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 Wisconsin? For Excavating jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavating jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Excavating jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Excavating jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Excavating job openings:
Excavating jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavating job openings in Wisconsin 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 $49,791 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Underground Systems Inc

Eau Claire, WI • On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description:

Equipment Operator:

Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility equipment (ex. horizontal directional drill, vibratory plow, excavators, skid steer).

Must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices – benching, shoring, and excavating around live underground utilities.

Works closely with the Foreman on identifying potential hazards in excavation and conducts job site analysis. Often fills in for the Foreman when the Foreman is required to be off site.

Responsibilities:

  • Ensure maintenance/safe operation of the assigned equipment
  • Works closely with Foreman and crew
  • Ability to identify underground utilities and the underground utility locate markings
  • Understands and can interpret safe excavations practices on assigned projects
  • Upon qualifying for a DOT Medical Card, assist and operate combinations of commercial vehicles and trailers over 10,000 LBS
  • Additionally, if operating commercial vehicle and trailer combinations over 26,000 LBS, drivers are required to have and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with a tanker endorsement, per FMCSA/DOT guidelines
Requirements:

Requirements:

  • Proven experience as a utility construction Equipment Operator
  • In-depth knowledge of construction procedures, equipment, OSHA, and FMCSA/DOT guidelines
  • Translate and troubleshoot design prints, locate tickets, and permits
  • Excellent organizational and leadership skills
  • Ability to communicate and report effectively, problem solving abilities
  • Good physical condition and stamina