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Excavator Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Pirc-Tobin

Main Line Excavator Operator/Laborer

Alburnett, IA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.50/hr

... excavator, following utility locates, spotter guidance, and company safety procedures. When not operating equipment, individuals must be willing to perform physical labor work wherever needed.

Alter Trading Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for safely operating and maintaining a variety of equipment -- including material handlers (excavators), stationary shears, and other heavy ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · 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 ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · 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 ...

Landmarc Environmental Systems

Operator

Bettendorf, IA · 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 ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Iowa

Excavator Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$39

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Iowa is $24.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $26.88 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.

Are excavator operators in high demand?

Excavator operators are in high demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and the need for skilled heavy equipment operators. Employment opportunities are often strong in regions with active development and require certifications such as OSHA safety training and equipment operation licenses.

Is there a demand for excavator jobs?

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

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 top pay for an Excavator Operator?

The top pay for an excavator operator can reach up to $30 to $40 per hour or more, depending on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the projects. Skilled operators with specialized training and those working in high-demand areas tend to earn higher wages.

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.

How much do excavator operators make?

In Michigan, excavator operators typically earn an average hourly wage of around $20 to $30, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $62,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the projects they work on.

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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Iowa? For Excavator Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in IA? For Excavator Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,103 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Equipment Operator (Excavator - Utility Crew)

Absolute Group

Granger, IA • On-site

$26 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Excavator Operator for underground utility installation. The successful candidate will have experience with main line utility work. Operators are responsible for the safe operation of multiple-sized excavators for underground infrastructure construction projects. Excavator Operators are also responsible for excavating, locating existing utilities, use of trench shoring equipment, handling materials, and equipment care on seasonal projects. Qualified candidates must be able to think critically and use good judgement to detect, minimize, and eliminate hazards on construction projects. This position requires compliance with company safety and OSHA regulations and includes continuous training.
Job Requirements: The ideal candidate will have 3 years of utility excavator operating experience and a valid driver's license. All candidates must have the ability to show up to work on time, possess a strong work ethic, show a willingness to learn, and have a positive attitude.
About the Utility Division
Utility is a Division of Absolute Group that specializes in residential, commercial, and municipal infrastructure construction. The Utility Division provides full site development, including sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer, grading and earthwork. The Utility Division also offers a variety of groundwork services like trucking, commercial footing excavation and backfill, and finish grading.
The Absolute Group Difference
The Absolute Group prides itself in its company core values, and we like to think it's one of the many things that sets us apart from the rest of the field. Our team is Driven, taking on each task with a "can-do" attitude and always putting our People First, whether that's who we're working with day-to-day or the employees that keep our company up and running. We're nothing without our customers, our team, our families, even our competitors, and remembering this is key to keeping us Respectful and Humble in all that we do. We're Determined to be Dependable, to be relied on, and we don't stop until the job is done. And, of course, we're thinkers. It's our Fearless Forward-Thinking that saves us time and money and keeps us up with the times.
Hard Work Pays Off
When you work hard for us, we work hard for you. And that's exactly why we offer our crews the most competitive benefits package the construction industry has to offer. As an Absolute Group employee, you will receive:
  • Competitive pay
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid time off
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and Life insurance coverage
  • Voluntary Accident, Critical Illness, Short-term and Long-term insurance coverage
  • Family-focused environment
  • Opportunities for career development and growth
  • Company-sponsored outings and events

Absolute Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

Apply