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Excavator Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Rapido Talent

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Excavator Operator (CDL Required) $45-$55/Hour | Southeast Wisconsin | Commercial Site Development & Asphalt Construction If you're an experienced Excavator Operator , you already know... Not every ...

Rapido Talent

Excavator Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Excavator Operator (CDL Required) $45-$55/Hour | Southeast Wisconsin | Commercial Site Development & Asphalt Construction If you're an experienced Excavator Operator , you already know... Not every ...

Spahn, Inc.

Be Seen First

Excavator/Bobcat Operator CDL A REQUIRED

Waunakee, WI · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

We are a small business operating in the Dane County and surrounding areas since 1952. We are looking for a new, hard-working, and motivated employee to operate our excavators, bobcats, and move ...

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Wausau, WI · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility ... Must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching ...

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Rhinelander, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility ... Must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching ...

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Eau Claire, WI · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility ... Must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching ...

TD&I Cable

Underground Drill Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

The Drill Operator must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching, shoring, and excavating around live underground utilities. This role works closely ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Hixton, WI · On-site

$21 - $27/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support ... Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required Experience in ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20.50 - $26.25/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support ... Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required Experience in ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Janesville, WI · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support ... Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required * Experience in ...

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Hixton, WI · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support ... Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required * Experience in ...

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All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

Excavator Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Wisconsin is $26.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $28.89 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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Wisconsin? The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Excavator Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Excavator Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in WI? For Excavator Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,917 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Rapido Talent

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator (CDL Required) $45–$55/Hour | Southeast Wisconsin | Commercial Site Development & Asphalt Construction

If you're an experienced Excavator Operator, you already know...

Not every contractor invests in its people.

Not every crew works together.

And not every company gives you the opportunity to build a long-term career.

We're partnering with one of Southeast Wisconsin's premier commercial paving and site construction contractors to hire an experienced Excavator Operator with a CDL.

This isn't an entry-level role.

We're looking for someone who knows their machine, takes pride in quality work, and wants to be part of a crew that values safety, accountability, and craftsmanship.

What You'll Be Doing

Operate excavators on commercial paving, grading, utility, excavation, and site development projects throughout Southeast Wisconsin.

From site prep and trenching to material handling and finish work, you'll play a key role in delivering quality projects while working alongside experienced operators and field leaders.

We're Looking For Someone Who Has

CDL Required

Commercial excavator experience

Asphalt, utility, grading, or site development experience

Strong work ethic

Dependable attendance

Safety-first mindset

Pride in producing quality work

Why Experienced Operators Make the Move

$45–$55/hour

Medical, Dental & Vision

PTO & Paid Holidays

Modern, Well-Maintained Equipment

Technology that keeps projects organized

Stable, Year-After-Year Commercial Work

Strong Safety Culture

You're Probably a Great Fit If You...
  • Enjoy running equipment—not sitting on the sidelines
  • Take pride in your work and your machine
  • Show up ready to contribute every day
  • Want to work with experienced crews that have each other's backs
  • Are looking for a long-term opportunity with room to grow
Schedule

• Approximately 55-hour work weeks

• Some Saturdays during paving season

• Local commercial projects throughout Southeast Wisconsin

Hiring Requirements

• Valid CDL

• Criminal background check

• Drug screen (including THC due to CDL regulations)

• Acceptable driving record

• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.

Confidential Search

We're representing the employer throughout the hiring process.

If your background is a fit, we'll share complete company details before any interview is scheduled.

Ready to Build Something Better?

If you're an experienced Excavator Operator looking for a company that values skilled operators, dependable people, and quality craftsmanship, we'd love to have a confidential conversation.