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Excavating Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Key Responsibilities: * Assist with construction, excavation, and utility installation projects. * Operate hand tools and support equipment setup and cleanup. * Help with trenching, site preparation ...

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Excavating information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do excavating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Excavating jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Excavating job openings:
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.

Heavy Equipment Operator, Utility Construction

Push Inc

Wausau, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating assigned equipment used to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water facilities. This position will assist with all aspects of the job requiring operation of both smaller and larger scale heavy equipment along with possible or occasional basic labor duties. Must have field experience digging with heavy equipment preferably around utilities in rural and urban areas, experience reading prints and schematics and the ability to train and mentor other team members.

PUSH, Inc. is a privately owned premier communications and power utility contractor headquartered in Rice Lake, WI. who has been providing telecom infrastructure to connect people globally for 50 years through its dedicated team members who have integrity and continually strive for excellence.

Physical and Environmental Factors:

  • Ability to work outdoors and to work in all types of outdoor weather.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry, and lift as needed.
  • Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet, and limbs in performing skilled movement.
  • Ability to travel and be away from home for extended periods of time.
  • 100% Field.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

  • Field experience with digging operations in rural and urban areas around utilities.
  • Responsible for daily maintenance on construction equipment used.
  • Ability to operate equipment, including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Successfully excavate around existing utilities.
  • Provide training and assistance to co-workers learning to be operators.
  • Perform routine labor (potholing, set-up of equipment, conduit/duct/cable placement, set pedestals) as required.
  • Drive tow vehicle hauling equipment to and around job site.
  • Assist with all aspects of the job including basic labor responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Work Experience: This person should have demonstrated field experience with digging operations around utilities in rural and urban areas. Must have experience operating utility construction equipment including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Industry Knowledge: General knowledge of utility construction procedures, including print reading. In addition, have knowledge of or be familiar with all procedures and associated tools and equipment necessary to install underground utilities in the most effective, safe, and profitable manner.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver’s License, Class A CDL preferred.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screenings.
  • Demonstrated field experience operating backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe around utilities.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Ability to maintain equipment and hand tools.
  • Ability to read, comprehend and carry out instructions.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Abide all company and manufacturer safety procedures and industry safety standards, in addition to attending mandatory safety meetings.

Benefits of Joining the PUSH Team:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability – Industry Leading!
  • Free Teladoc, No-Cost Care Options
  • 401K with Company Match up to 3%
  • Competitive pay, weekly checks
  • Paid PTO and Holidays
  • Bonus Potential
  • Training & Advancement Opportunities
  • Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • In-house CDL Program
  • Unlimited Referral Bonus Program
  • And Much More!

Push, Inc is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEOC/M/F/D/V)