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Excavator Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Excavator Operator Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY · On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench boxes, manholes, and ...

Jurgensen Companies

Excavator Operator

Walton, KY

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench boxes, manholes, and ...

TIC

Excavator Operator Journeyman - MCKY

Louisville, KY · On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/hr

Requisition ID: 184700 Position Summary Operate one or several types of power construction equipment to excavate, move and/or grade material. Experience Level Intermediate Primary Responsibilities ...

Peak Utility Services Group

Hydrovac Operator

Clay, KY

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to providing world ... Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

Arrow Electric Co LLC

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

This role supports excavation, material handling, site preparation, and installation activities across a variety of project types and sizes. The Equipment Operator works under the direction of ...

Peak Utility Services Group

Hydrovac Operator

Clay, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to providing world ... Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Lexington, KY · 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 ...

Superior Pipeline Services

Hydrovac Operator

Clay, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

Superior Hydrovac is a full-service turn-key hydro excavation company dedicated to providing world ... Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Operator

Eastwood, KY · 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

Eastwood, KY

$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

Lexington, KY · 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

Bellevue, KY · 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 Kentucky

Excavator Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$22

$36

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Kentucky is $22.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $24.86 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.
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Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,255 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Jurgensen Companies

Walton, KY • On-site

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

Eaton Asphalt is seeking a skilled Excavator Operator to support our pipe crew and concrete operations. This role involves precision excavation for underground utilities, trench boxes, manholes, and foundations, as well as general earthwork and grading. The ideal candidate has strong experience operating hydraulic excavators in utility and concrete-heavy environments, with a commitment to safety, accuracy, and team collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Safely operate hydraulic excavators for trenching, utility installation, and site preparation
  • Excavate for storm sewer, sanitary sewer, and water main installations
  • Set trench boxes and shore trenches in accordance with safety standards
  • Dig around existing utilities with precision and care
  • Assist with grading and backfilling activities as part of the dirt crew
  • Coordinate with ground crew and foremen to ensure accurate cuts and slopes
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance

Other Responsibilities:

  • Operating heavy equipment as assigned while maintaining a "crew-first" mindset; this includes performing essential manual labor and ground-support tasks as dictated by project needs. Duties include, but are not limited to, shoveling asphalt, concrete, pipe installation, hand-digging, grade checking, traffic control, and general site restoration.

Field Support Duties:

  • Hand-shoveling and raking of paving materials (asphalt, concrete, stone, or dirt).
  • Assisting with utility installation, including pipe laying and bedding.
  • Manual grease and maintenance of equipment components using power and hand tools.
  • Setting up and moving traffic control devices and safety signage.
  • Perform all other ancillary duties and manual tasks customary to a heavy construction or civil engineering site to ensure project continuity and crew safety.

Physical & Mental Demands:

  • Local travel traditionally
  • Required overtime
  • Seasonal layoffs
  • Extensive physical activity
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb and kneel on uneven terrain for extended periods of time in all weather conditions (heat, rain, cold).
  • Must work outdoors and in all weather conditions/terrain
  • Ability to safely mount and dismount heavy equipment multiple times per shift.
  • Could be asked to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
  • Proven experience as an excavator operator in underground utility and earthwork environments
  • Ability to read and interpret site plans and grade stakes
  • Familiarity with trench safety and OSHA excavation standards
  • Strong teamwork and communication skills
  • Reliable transportation and a strong work ethic

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