1

Excavator Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Dale, WI · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

The operator is responsible for maintaining and operating equipment between locations. Why work for ... Safely excavate any type of soil without disturbing underground infrastructures/utilities * Always ...

Equipment Operator - Asphalt Paving

Appleton, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR - ASPHALT PAVING APPLETON | WISCONSIN RESPONSIBILITIES Equipment Operators on ... Experience or knowledge in site preparation, excavation, or asphalt paving industry required

Ability to operate other types of heavy equipment a plus (e.g. excavator, front end loader ... Current certification from an accredited crane operator testing organization is a plus * Must have ...

Napkin Operator

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Napkin Operator is responsible for operating machines to produce high quality disposable tabletop products for the Foodservice industry. This position may also assist in the packing of finished ...

Napkin Operator

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$28.59/hr

The Napkin Operator is responsible for operating machines to produce high quality disposable tabletop products for the Foodservice industry. This position may also assist in the packing of finished ...

Placemats Operator

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Placemat Operator converts paper rolls into placemats by setting up jobs and running the press to print product according to customer needs. The Operator maintains the quality of the product and ...

Placemats Operator

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

The Placemat Operator converts paper rolls into placemats by setting up jobs and running the press to print product according to customer needs. The Operator maintains the quality of the product and ...

Machine Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Extrusion Operator Would you like to be part of a company that focuses on quality and customer service, while providing a sustainable product to consumers? Our client is growing and looking to add ...

Operator I

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Operator I Req Id: 12511 Job Location: Green Bay Posting Start Date: 6/3/26 Work Environment: Onsite Job Purpose To operate a simple piece of equipment with repetitive functions. In this position you ...

MACHINE OPERATOR

De Pere, WI · On-site

$19/hr

Machine Operator-Paper Converting Do you enjoy operating machines? Our client in Green Bay is looking for workers to join their team in distributing their clients industrial, safety, and janitorial ...

New

Express Employment is hiring experienced machine operators for our client, a local manufacturing company. This company offers excellent benefits once hired, growth opportunities, paid training, and a ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Excavator Operator information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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.

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.
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:
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.

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Groome Industrial Service Group, a nationwide leader focused on the future, provides specialty maintenance services nationwide for several industries including natural gas-fired power generation, coal-fired power generation, refinery, shipping, manufacturing, aviation, and municipal. Our unique turnkey services help reduce harmful emissions, improve plant performance, and extend the life of valuable industrial equipment and infrastructure. We are a people-centric organization with employees committed to safety, integrity, and accountability. 

About the Position 

Groome Industrial Services Company is seeking an Operator (CDL) to join our team. The operator is responsible for maintaining and operating equipment between locations.

Why work for Groome Industrial Service Group? 

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority 24/7/365!! 
  • Competitive wages - the salary range for this position is $30.00 to $35.00/hour based on experience.
  • Paid time off, comprehensive health benefits coverage after 60 days of full-time employment.
  • 401(k) after the eligibility period with company matching component. 
  • Opportunities for growth and development in your career.
  • Positive and safe work environments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Ensuring that Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and acting safely at all times.
  • Responsible for operating and maintaining all equipment associated with the assigned service The ability to operate and support additional service line equipment is strongly desired.
  • Perform Hazard Recognition Awareness to remove all hazards from the workplace.
  • Responsible for setting up and performing their job.
  • DOT driver complies with all DOT regulations and record-keeping.
  • Inspects company vehicles, equipment, and tools before and after returning to the yard. Reports deficiencies to appropriate management personnel. (pre- and post-trip inspection reports).
  • Promotes the company's business by conducting work assignments professionally and safely.
  • Assists in project planning of jobs, including on-site inspections, writing procedures, specifying equipment and chemicals, etc.
  • Communicate the assigned job's status to division management and customer representatives (before, during, and after the job is completed).
  • Assists in performing field maintenance on company vehicles, equipment, and tools, daily.
  • Responsible for hookup and breakdown of equipment using proper tools and procedures.
  • Inspects equipment, hoses, connection, pumps, and general work area before starting the job. Corrects deficiencies that may cause accidents, injuries, lost productivity, or which are consistent with the work order or customer's requirements.
  • Operates all company equipment when authorized and qualified, following company rules, plant rules, and work orders.
  • Cleans up work area and equipment after work is complete. Assists in maintaining a safe, clean workplace, change room, locker area, and client's facility.
  • Cleans equipment for customers.
  • Spray equipment with pressurized water
  • Remove debris with vacuum operation.
  • Rotation of operating equipment (boom, vacuum, and blaster).
  • May neutralize equipment after removal of debris.
  • Assists in maintaining an organized set of supplies and equipment.  
  • Ensures equipment is placed and returned to its proper storage location.
  • Consistently keeps a clean, well-maintained, and organized work area.
  • Safely excavate any type of soil without disturbing underground infrastructures/utilities
  • Always complies with all safety requirements.
  • Complies with all company policies, and safety practices.  
  • Work productively as a member of the team.
  • Performs all other duties as assigned.

What does it take to work for Groome Industrial Service Group? 

  • Possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record, and acceptable ID.
  • Possess or be able to acquire a CDL Standard Transmission A or B endorsement; hazmat is recommended but not required. 
  • Knowledge of safe vacuum operations.
  • Knowledge of safe hydro-blast operations.
  • Must be able to work overtime, holidays, and weekends (rotating), if required. 
  • Some travel and night work required.  
  • Must have acceptable ID, pass a background check, drug screen, and physical.  
  • High school diploma or GED.  
  • Possession of a TWIC card is a plus but not a requirement.  
  • Must understand verbal and written instructions.  
  • Must be able to read and write.  
  • Must have basic math skills.

Physical Requirements: 

  • Ability to lift, push or pull objects up to 50 lbs. on occasion.
  • Able to withstand 70 psi of back pressure.
  • May reach above shoulder height and below the waist frequently.
  • May stoop, kneel, or bend, on occasion.
  • Move in and around confined, cluttered, and uneven areas.
  • Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects frequently.
  • Work up to a 12-hour shift doing hard physical work in varying temperatures and outside conditions. 

For additional information about our company, visit us atwww.groomeindustrial.com. 

Groome Industrial Service Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. E.O.E./M/F/Disability/Veteran 

#ZR