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Excavator Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Sunrise Telecom

Underground Operator 1

Oshkosh, 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

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $28/hr

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

City of Wausau

Equipment Operator

Wausau, WI · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

From road construction and excavation to snow removal and emergency response, you'll operate a ... Safely operating a variety of heavy construction equipment used in roadway, utility, and ...

Walbec Group

Dragline Operator

Waukesha, WI

The Dragline Operator is responsible for maneuvering the dragline excavator, gathering materials with the bucket and emptying them in the dump area. Role and Responsibilities: * Operate equipment in ...

Walbec Group

Dragline Operator

Milwaukee, WI

The Dragline Operator is responsible for maneuvering the dragline excavator, gathering materials with the bucket and emptying them in the dump area. Role and Responsibilities: * Operate equipment in ...

Walbec Group

Dragline Operator

Wausau, WI

The Dragline Operator is responsible for maneuvering the dragline excavator, gathering materials with the bucket and emptying them in the dump area. Role and Responsibilities: * Operate equipment in ...

Walbec Group

Dragline Operator

Waukesha, WI · On-site

The Dragline Operator is responsible for maneuvering the dragline excavator, gathering materials with the bucket and emptying them in the dump area. Role and Responsibilities: * Operate equipment in ...

Alter Trading Corp

Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

The Equipment Operator is responsible for learning all aspects of the material handler (excavator) operation, end loader and other equipment to safely move material throughout our yard including ...

Alter Trading

Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

The Equipment Operator is responsible for learning all aspects of the material handler (excavator) operation, end loader and other equipment to safely move material throughout our yard including ...

City of Wausau, WI

Equipment Operator

Wausau, WI · On-site

$50K - $67K/yr

From road construction and excavation to snow removal and emergency response, you'll operate a ... Safely operating a variety of heavy construction equipment used in roadway, utility, and ...

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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 8, 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.

Underground Operator 1

Sunrise Telecom

Oshkosh, WI • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Sunrise Telecom rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 97 rated telecommunications companies

Job description

Position Summary

The Underground Operator I is responsible for safely operating heavy equipment to install, maintain, and repair underground telecommunications infrastructure. This includes trenching, boring, excavating, and placing conduit and fiber systems to support network construction projects.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate equipment such as directional bore machines, mini excavators, backhoes, trenchers, and other underground construction equipment
  • Perform safe excavation for fiber, conduit, and utility installations
  • Read and interpret utility locates, site drawings, and construction plans
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including OSHA and company policies
  • Maintain awareness of existing underground utilities and avoid service disruptions
  • Assist with placing conduit, handholes, vaults, and pedestals
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Communicate effectively with crew members, supervisors, and project managers
  • Complete required paperwork and job documentation accurately
  • Travel to various job sites as required

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Prior experience operating underground construction equipment required
  • Experience in telecommunications or utility construction preferred
  • Ability to read construction prints and utility markings
  • Valid driver’s license (CDL preferred, if applicable)
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks

Required Skills

  • Strong safety awareness and attention to detail
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Knowledge of underground utility safety practices
  • Basic mechanical knowledge of equipment

Working Conditions

  • Outdoor construction environment
  • Exposure to weather, noise, and construction-related hazards
  • May require overtime, weekends, and travel


What Sunrise Telecom employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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