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Excavator Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Hoosier Drain Guys

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Losantville, IN · On-site

$23.50 - $35/hr

The Excavator Operator will primarily work on residential construction projects as a solo operator. This role involves operating heavy excavation equipment during day shifts with occasional travel ...

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned ...

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company ...

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company ...

Arbor Homes

Machine Operator

Trafalgar, IN

$16 - $19/hr

About The Role Fisher Contracting & Excavating, a subsidiary of Arbor Homes, is currently looking to hire multiple Operators to work throughout Central Indiana. What's In It For You? Base salary ...

Arbor Homes

Machine Operator

Trafalgar, IN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

About The Role Fisher Contracting & Excavating, a subsidiary of Arbor Homes, is currently looking to hire multiple Operators to work throughout Central Indiana. What's In It For You? • Base salary ...

Tycol Excavating

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Tycol Excavating and Property Services is seeking a skilled and reliable Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Indiana

Excavator Operator information

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$13

$24

$39

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Indiana is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Excavator Operator vs Backhoe Operator?

AspectExcavator OperatorBackhoe Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often preferred, OSHA safety trainingSimilar certifications, often OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, heavy machinery operationConstruction sites, utility work, landscaping
Job DutiesDigging, lifting, demolition with large excavatorsDigging trenches, loading, small-scale excavation
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, infrastructureConstruction, landscaping, utility companies

While both Excavator Operators and Backhoe Operators work in construction and use similar safety certifications, Excavator Operators typically handle larger machinery for heavy-duty tasks, whereas Backhoe Operators focus on smaller-scale digging and loading. The choice depends on project size and equipment used.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

There is generally strong demand for excavator operators due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and urban development. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after in the construction and mining industries, especially in regions with active development projects.

How do I get into operating an excavator?

To become an excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a training program or apprenticeship that covers equipment operation and safety procedures. Many employers require a commercial driver's license (CDL) and certification from a recognized training organization. Gaining hands-on experience and understanding of machinery, safety standards, and environmental considerations are essential steps in entering this field.

What is the highest salary for an Excavator Operator?

The highest salaries for excavator operators can exceed $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as construction or mining. Factors like certifications, location, and the complexity of projects can influence earning potential.

What does an Excavator Operator do?

An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery called excavators to move earth, dig trenches, lift materials, and perform site preparation on construction projects. They control the excavator’s boom, bucket, and other attachments with precision to complete tasks safely and efficiently. Excavator Operators also perform routine equipment maintenance, follow safety protocols, and collaborate with site supervisors and other workers. Their work is crucial in building foundations, roads, pipelines, and other infrastructure.

What Is an Excavator Operator?

As an excavator operator, you control the heavy equipment that moves dirt, sand, and other materials on construction sites. In addition to operating the excavator machine, your job duties are to perform routine maintenance on your excavator and coordinate with your supervisor for major repairs. Since your heavy machinery will move earth, rubble, and debris around the construction sites at your jobs, you need to communicate with the site supervisor and other construction workers to ensure everyone’s safety while you’re operating the excavator.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Excavator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS guidance systems, maintenance software, and various models of excavators is typically required. Attention to detail, spatial awareness, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation on construction sites, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by Excavator Operators on construction sites?

Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating with other heavy equipment to maintain safety and efficiency. Managing unexpected underground obstacles and ensuring accurate digging according to site plans also requires strong attention to detail. Effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is essential to minimize delays and prevent accidents, making teamwork a critical aspect of the role.

What's the going rate for an Excavator Operator?

The average hourly rate for an excavator operator ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in heavy machinery typically earn higher wages, and rates may vary based on union membership or contractor requirements.
More about Excavator Operator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,772 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Hoosier Drain Guys

Losantville, IN • On-site

$23.50 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

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Job description

The Excavator Operator will primarily work on residential construction projects as a solo operator. This role involves operating heavy excavation equipment during day shifts with occasional travel requirements. The operator is responsible for efficiently preparing sites, performing excavation and trenching tasks, and maintaining machinery to ensure safe and effective project completion.

Responsibilities

  • Operate excavation equipment for residential construction projects
  • Prepare job sites prior to excavation tasks
  • Perform excavation and trenching safely and accurately
  • Conduct routine maintenance and inspections of the machinery
  • Follow safety procedures to prevent accidents

Preferred Qualifications

  • 1+ years of experience in heavy equipment operation
  • Proficiency in operating excavators
  • Knowledge of safety procedures in excavation work
  • Ability to assess sites and identify potential issues
  • Strong team communication skills despite typically working solo
  • Problem-solving abilities in field conditions