ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Excavator Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Amteck, LLC

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Appleton, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in ... Operate and maintain electrical construction equipment, including but not limited to excavators ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Crush/Wash Operator

Green Bay, WI

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Crush/Wash Operator

Greenville, WI

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Crush/Wash Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Crush/Wash Operator

Green Bay, WI

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Walbec Group

Crush/Wash Operator

Greenville, WI

Crush/wash Operators are responsible for operating several types of construction equipment in a ... excavators Requirements: Operate equipment in a safe and productive manner. Perform routine ...

Northeast Asphalt, Inc.

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating ... This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul ...

Walbec Group

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating ... This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul ...

Walbec Group

Stripping Crew Operator

Green Bay, WI

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating ... This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul ...

Walbec Group

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating ... This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul ...

Walbec Group

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating ... This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul ...

Walbec Group

Stripping Crew Operator

Green Bay, WI

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating ... This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExcavator Operator JobsExcavator Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Excavator Operator information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator operator in Appleton, WI is $25.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $27.88 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.
More about Excavator Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Operator jobs in Appleton, WI?

The most popular types of Excavator Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Operator jobs in Appleton, WI?

For Excavator Operator jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Operator jobs in Appleton, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Excavator Operator job openings:

Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Operator job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,062 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Equipment Operator

ITG Communications

Kaukauna, WI • On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

ITG Communications rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ITG Communications is hiring for an Equipment Operator in Kaukauna, WI
The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various types of heavy construction equipment including excavators, backhoes, skid steers, and loaders in support of underground and aerial utility installation projects. This role requires safe, efficient handling of equipment in compliance with job specifications and safety guidelines.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate heavy equipment to complete excavation, trenching, backfilling, grading, and material movement tasks
  • Load and unload construction materials and equipment at job sites
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and routine maintenance checks
  • Interpret utility locates, construction plans, and dig tickets to ensure safe operation
  • Work closely with field crews and foremen to execute work according to schedule
  • Maintain clean and organized work zones, including staging and spoil areas
  • Identify and avoid existing utilities and other obstructions during excavation
  • Adhere to all safety procedures and ensure equipment is operated within regulatory and company standards
  • Report equipment issues or hazards to supervisors immediately

Key Measures / Key Performance Indicators:
  • Equipment uptime and condition
  • Job productivity and completion timelines
  • Incident and damage-free operation
  • Accuracy in executing excavation per project drawings
  • Compliance with safety protocols and PPE usage

Requirements
Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Experience:
  • 1-3 years of experience operating heavy equipment in utility or construction environments
  • Familiarity with trenching, site prep, and material handling techniques
  • Ability to read job plans, utility locates, and construction blueprints

Exposure:
  • Internal: Works with field teams, supervisors, and construction managers
  • External: May interact with inspectors, subcontractors, or site representatives
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions and active construction sites

Factors critical to success at ITG Communications for this position:
  • Equipment Mastery: Operates machinery efficiently, minimizing wear and avoiding rework
  • Safety First: Prioritizes a culture of safety and situational awareness on every job
  • Supportive Field Role: Contributes to overall crew productivity and timely project execution

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 75 lbs
  • Manual dexterity and visual acuity for controlling and monitoring equipment
  • Exposure to vibration, noise, and environmental conditions typical of construction sites
  • Must maintain a valid driver's license; CDL preferred

Please note:
This is a safety-sensitive position. The employee has responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others. The employee must be able to perform all duties in accordance with safety regulations, company policies, and client requirements. This includes but is not limited to:
  • Following all required safety protocols and procedures
  • Using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Operating vehicles and equipment safely
  • Maintaining valid certifications and licenses as required
  • Participating in mandatory safety training and meetings
  • Reporting unsafe conditions or practices
  • Passing required drug and alcohol screening
  • Maintaining physical capabilities necessary to perform essential job functions safely

Failure to meet these safety requirements may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Additional Comments
ITG is an equal employment opportunity employer. ITG's policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40 and over), disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. ITG also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also ITG's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

What ITG Communications employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply