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Excavator Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.

Hydrovac Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Must possess excavation knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and cables, operating a high-pressure ...

TD&I Cable Maintenance LLC

Hydrovac Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Must possess excavation knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and cables, operating a high-pressure ...

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 ...

ITG Communications

Equipment Operator

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

ITG Communications is hiring for an Equipment Operator in Kaukauna, WI The Equipment Operator is ... Operate heavy equipment to complete excavation, trenching, backfilling, grading, and material ...

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 ...

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 ...

TD&I Cable

Underground Equipment Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$26 - $29/hr

The Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility equipment (ex ... They must possess excavation knowledge on OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices - benching ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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 Sep 3, 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.

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 Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,917 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.

Roberts, WI • On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Description:

The Hydrovac Operator is proficient in the operations of removing debris from a specific location and maintaining the Hydrovac unit to ensure the system operates at maximum capacity. Must possess excavation knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices – performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and cables, operating a high-pressure wand, and prepping and dismantling the unit and grounding per job site.

Requirements:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Operate hydro vacuum excavation equipment to safely expose underground utilities

· Ensure maintenance/safe operation of the assigned equipment.

· Accurately perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections and report deficiencies daily

· Understand and enforce the project’s detailed scope of work to maintain strict compliance with contract documents, project schedules, policies, and procedures.

· Ability to work in varying dimensions, such as squatting and crawling for possible extended periods of time.

· Ability to work in various weather conditions.

· Ensure pre- and post-vehicle inspection.

· Maintain and protect all equipment in excellent condition

· Communicate effectively with crew members and clients.

· Willing to travel throughout TD&I’s territory as needed.

· Perform any other tasks assigned to support and improve overall team operations

Minimum Skills & Experience Required:

· Requires High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent reading, writing, and reasoning skills)

· 2-5 years of experience operating vacuum trucks (or similar equipment)

· Additional experience related to manual labor.

· A valid CDL Class A Commercial Driver’s License (Tanker endorsement required or willing to obtain)

· Ability to lift 50 pounds.

· In-depth knowledge of construction procedures, equipment, OSHA, and FMCSA/DOT guidelines

· Excellent organizational and leadership skills

· Ability to communicate and report effectively, problem-solving abilities.

· Good physical condition and stamina

Preferred Skills & Experience:

· Tanker endorsement helpful but will be provided to the right candidate