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Excavator Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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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Operate excavators, dozers, skid steers, loaders, and other site equipment * Perform grading ... years of operating experience in commercial sitework * GPS experience is a plus * Strong ...

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Operate excavators, dozers, skid steers, loaders, and other site equipment * Perform grading ... years of operating experience in commercial sitework * GPS experience is a plus * Strong ...

We are a growing excavation company specializing in grading and utility site preparation for Quick ... Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator with at least 3+ years of ...

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Assisting heavy equipment operators with various tasks on excavation sites. * Performing manual labor such as digging, trenching, and backfilling. * Loading and unloading materials and equipment.

Equipment Operator

Evansville, IN

$18.25 - $25/hr

The Underground Operator plays a vital role in supporting underground utility crews by assisting with excavation, utility installation and repair, site preparation, and maintaining a safe and ...

Operator

Zionsville, IN · On-site

$17 - $30/hr

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... Operate Excavator, maintaining proper awareness of one's surroundings. * Ensure a sound ...

Operator Who We Are Landmarc Environmental Systems, LLC (Landmarc) was conceived by a few ... Operate Excavator, maintaining proper awareness of one's surroundings. * Ensure a sound ...

Showing results 21-40

Excavator Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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.

How much do they pay an excavator operator?

Excavator operators typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment or in high-demand areas may earn higher wages.

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.

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.

How do you get a job as an excavator operator?

To become an excavator operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification in operating heavy machinery. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions and obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) can also improve job prospects.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of 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:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in IN?

For Excavator Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Indiana 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 $51,772 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Experienced Excavation Operator / Pipelayer

Zoom Drain

Westfield, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Let's Talk.
About the Job:
Technicians at Zoom Drain, Sewer, & Septic approach demanding work with a steady hand. As representatives of Zoom on the front lines, our Technicians understand the importance of customer service and are rewarded for going the extra mile. The potential to earn a significant income and enjoy a generous benefits package, along with our superior training, makes Zoom one of the most progressive companies in the plumbing business. We're looking for qualified Technicians now to join our team!
Career Advancement:
At Zoom we take great care in cultivating the careers of our employees. We offer advanced training and room for growth because we recognize that career advancement is a large part of job satisfaction. For those who meet these requirements, a challenging environment with plenty of opportunity awaits.
Zoom maintains a healthy corporate culture that values the contributions of our employees. Technical prowess and superior customer service are our hallmarks. We go out of our way to ensure that we're responsive to our customer's needs and our employees are rewarded accordingly.
As a fast-growing industry leader, our customers are assured that Zoom's service is unparalleled. Our Technicians are some of the most highly trained individuals in the business, and that continues with on-the-job training as your career progresses. Zoom's name stands apart as a caring employer that provides sound opportunities to advance within the company.
At Zoom you'll have the opportunity to get ahead. We are all about training and that's what makes the difference between this being just a job and this being a career. There are many opportunities for a person who is honest, motivated and seeks a challenge.
Requirements:
Experience repairing underground drains and sewers using conventional excavation methods or experience using trenchless pipe replacement equipment is required for this Install technician level position. Additional experience including unclogging drains with electric snakes and/or high velocity water jets as well as using a sewer camera to inspect drain lines would be desirable.
Desired Skills:
  • Experience in excavation including pipe installation, pipe bursting, and pipe relining
  • Maintaining a clean, organized, and safe jobsite
  • Proper operation of excavation equipment such as a backhoe
  • Willingness to "get in the trenches" and expose lines by hand
  • Utilization of basic tools as well as sewer cleaning equipment, such as a sewer jet or Picote
  • Ability to track and report job costs relevant to specific excavations
  • Professional demeanor when onsite to ensure customer comfort and satisfaction

Wages & Benefits:
We offer superior benefits that are unmatched in our industry, including:
  • Bonus Opportunities
  • Career Advancement
  • Medical Benefits
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Sick Days
  • Paid Holidays
  • Retirement Plan
  • Company Gatherings
  • Company Mobile Phone & Tablet
  • Company Supplied Uniforms
  • Best Service Trucks
  • Recognition & Rewards
  • Positive Team Atmosphere
About the Company:
Zoom Drain, Sewer, & Septic is a third-generation family plumbing business. We are best known for our fast service times and our focused customer solutions. We have first class facilities, a state of the art training center, and all the tools & techniques to help our employees advance their careers.
Don't miss this opportunity to join our team!
*Each location is independently owned and operated