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Excavator Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Boom Truck Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

$30.04 - $40.17/hr

Operators will operate various pieces of heavy equipment including but not limited to: boom, cranes ... Duties may include breaking up existing road, moving dirt and terrain and excavating areas ...

Operators will operate various pieces of heavy equipment including but not limited to: boom, cranes ... Duties may include breaking up existing road, moving dirt and terrain and excavating areas ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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 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:

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.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Crossland Construction Company

Junction City, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Crossland Construction rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Get to Know Us:
If you are looking for a career in construction then you've come to the right place!
Crossland Construction is a leader in the industry and we are growing-right here in the Midwest-with opportunities for hard working, dedicated men and women to join our team. Crossland works year round and offers top pay, great benefits including health and dental insurance, a 401k retirement plan, paid time off, paid education to allow you to move up, and much more! You would join a team of people with a passion for construction who love to build and who know that their hard work will pay off.
Whether you have several years of experience under your belt or you are new in the industry you can have a career at Crossland!
Crossland Benefits:
  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401 (k) retirement plan with guaranteed match
  • Paid time off
  • Holiday pay
  • Paid education opportunities

Job Qualifications:
We are currently accepting applications for Heavy Equipment Operators for Junction City, KS. Candidates for Heavy Equipment Operator must have at least 3-5 years of experience on bulldozers, loaders, backhoes, excavators, scrapers and graders. Must have own transportation, be highly motivated, and willing to travel. Drug screen, physical and criminal background check are required of successful candidates.
Essential Responsibilities:
Performs any combination of the following duties on construction projects, usually working in a utility capacity and by transferring from one task to another.
Activities included but not limited to:
*Operating heavy equipment including excavators, dozers and backhoes.
*Operate routinely used tools and equipment
*Perform routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment
*Load and unload equipment from vehicles and trailers
*Complete required paperwork, forms and records as required
*Coordinate machine actions with crew members in response to hand or audio signals
*Ability to work without close supervision once directed on task
*Obeys and follows all safety rules on the job site and encourages others to do the same
*Maintains a good relationship with co-workers and works well with others to accomplish a task.
*Must have water, sewer and drain experience
Physical demands of this position include lifting up to 70 pounds occasionally; 40-50 pounds frequently and carrying same along with constant sitting, grasping and reaching, frequent climbing, walking and standing. Must be able to work year-round outdoors and travel as needed.
EOE/M/F/D/V
Equal Opportunity Employer
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.

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