ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Excavator Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Wildcat Companies

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices * Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure

Wildcat Companies

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices * Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure

Sherwood Companies

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices * Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure

Sherwood Companies

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices * Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure

Wildcat Construction Co., Inc.

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices * Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure

Sherwood Companies

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices * Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure

Wildcat Construction Co., Inc.

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

... operating practicesPerform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructureUse attachments such as breakers, buckets, compactors, or thumbs to complete various ...

Sherwood Construction Co., Inc.

Excavator Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

... operating practicesPerform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructureUse attachments such as breakers, buckets, compactors, or thumbs to complete various ...

Amerine Utilities Construction, Inc

Be Seen First

Equipment Operator

Great Bend, KS · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment used in underground utility and telecommunications construction, including trenching, excavation, conduit installation, and ...

State Tractor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Shawnee, KS

$30/hr

State Tractor Trucking is seeking an experienced Excavator Heavy Equipment Operator Hours Monday - Friday - Day shift Starting pay $30 an hour (depending on experience) Overtime available Details ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Kansas

Excavator Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$12

$23

$37

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Kansas is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs

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

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Kansas are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

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

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

Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Kansas 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 $48,523 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Wildcat Companies

Wichita, KS • On-site

$20.25 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Wildcat has the ability to self-perform many types of civil construction including earthwork and site prep, concrete and asphalt paving, civil and structural concrete, rock excavation, piling and sheet piling, sub-grade stabilization, and water/waste-water treatment facilities. We also have a tremendous amount of experience with all underground utilities including sanitary sewer, water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution.
The Sherwood Companies have a proven track record of completing a variety of projects from General Construction, to Construction Management and Design Build Projects for both public and private owners. A brief summary of the types of projects include, urban expressways, bridges, underground utilities, dam construction, asphalt/concrete paving and water/wastewater treatment plants.
JOB DESCRIPTION
The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth, applying concrete, asphalt or other materials to road beds or equipment used for tamping gravel, dirt or other materials. The incumbent will need to operate in a safe and efficient manner following all personal protective equipment (PPE) and process requirements. Travel may be required.
BENEFITS
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Accident and Cancer Insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • 401(k) with match
  • Yearly boot reimbursement
  • Referral bonus program

ACTIVITIES/TASKS/SCOPE
  • Keep work area clean, orderly and safe
  • Operate excavators safely and efficiently to perform excavation, trenching, grading, loading, and backfilling activities
  • Dig trenches and foundations according to project plans, grade stakes, and site specifications
  • Load trucks with soil, rock, debris, and other materials while maintaining safe operating practices
  • Perform precise excavation work around utilities, structures, and underground infrastructure
  • Use attachments such as breakers, buckets, compactors, or thumbs to complete various construction tasks
  • Inspect equipment daily and perform routine maintenance including checking fluids, grease points, tracks, and hydraulic systems
  • Maintain awareness of surroundings and follow all site safety procedures, traffic controls, and hand signals
  • Read and interpret blueprints, utility markings, and excavation plans to ensure accurate work
  • Communicate effectively with ground crews, foremen, and other operators to coordinate job site activities
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of safety hazards
  • Monitor excavation conditions and identify potential safety concerns such as unstable ground or underground conflicts
  • Work in varying weather and site conditions while meeting productivity and quality expectations
  • Assist with other construction and labor duties as needed
  • Follow company policies, OSHA regulations, and all applicable safety standards at all times

INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR COMPETENCIES
  • Work Standards
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Initiating Action
  • Adaptability
  • Contributing to Team Success
  • Managing Work (Time Management)
  • Communication

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
  • High School or Degree or GED required
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • 2-3 years of experience of heavy equipment operation in heavy highway or farm experience preferred

CERTIFICATION/OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Mechanical knowledge of machines and tools
  • Mathematics
  • Operation monitoring
  • Control precision
  • Depth perception
  • Manual dexterity
  • Reaction time
  • Coordination

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, walk, climb ladders, reach, grasp, push/pull, twist, and lift heavy objects (50 lbs.)
  • Safe negotiation of uneven terrain in various weather conditions
  • Ability to handle a large volume of work and perform multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to effectively verbally communicate, see close and at distances, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Work is performed in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to outdoor elements.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply