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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Hydrovac Excavator Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$30.14 - $43.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hydrovac Excavator Operator Fiore & Sons, Inc. is an employee-owned civil construction company with over 70 years of experience serving Colorado and the surrounding states. As an industry leader ...

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Excavation Laborer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will work directly with equipment operators and site leads to perform ground ... Company Description CJM Excavating is a locally owned business that specializes in residential and ...

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Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL)

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation, is a publicly owned and operated ... Must be able to operate Backhoe and Mini Excavator. * Ability to drive on a stop and start basis ...

Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL)

Commerce City, CO · On-site

$20 - $27.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation, is a publicly owned and operated ... Must be able to operate Backhoe and Mini Excavator. * Ability to drive on a stop and start basis ...

Backhoe and Mini Excavator Operator (CDL)

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation, is a publicly owned and operated ... Must be able to operate Backhoe and Mini Excavator. * Ability to drive on a stop and start basis ...

Surface Land Representative

Wheat Ridge, CO · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Coordinate with property owners, operators, utility representatives, and field personnel to ... Support excavation and construction planning efforts by identifying access and utility-related ...

Potholer/Laborer

Denver, CO

$17 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Q3 Contracting (Q3C), a division of Primoris Services Corporation , is a publicly owned ... Experience operating vacuum trucks or hydro-excavation equipment. * OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 ...

DEN HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Denver, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Competitive wages * 100% Employee Owned and Operated * Career growth potential * Comprehensive ... Operates light and heavy equipment including skid steers, forklifts, dozer, excavators, backhoes

Construction Laborer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Straight Line Construction is a family owned and operated business, founded in Pueblo, CO in the ... On the Job Training - Learn to operate skid loaders, hydraulic drive heads, mini-excavators and ...

Equipment Operator, Schmidt

Fountain, CO

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

The Operator will operate heavy equipment, specifically Excavator and Dozer. Pay: Starting at $27 ... We are a unique, 100-year-old family-owned company that transforms our recycled products into ...

Equipment Operator, Schmidt

Fountain, CO · On-site

$27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

The Operator will operate heavy equipment, specifically Excavator and Dozer. Pay: Starting at $27 ... We are a unique, 100-year-old family-owned company that transforms our recycled products into ...

Hydrovac / CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Paid time off Job Summary HDD Cactus is a small family-owned business out of Ignacio, CO in the ... We specialize in directional drilling, telecom, traffic control, aerial installation, excavation ...

Hydrovac CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO · On-site

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Vacation 401(k) Paid time off Job Summary HDD Cactus is a small family-owned business out of ... We specialize in directional drilling, telecom, traffic control, aerial installation, excavation ...

Job Summary HDD Cactus is a small family-owned business out of Ignacio, CO in the Southwest part of ... We specialize in directional drilling, telecom, traffic control, aerial installation, excavation ...

Job Summary HDD Cactus is a small family-owned business out of Ignacio, CO in the Southwest part of ... We specialize in directional drilling, telecom, traffic control, aerial installation, excavation ...

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Excavator Owner Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in Colorado is $27.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do excavator owner operators earn?

Excavator owner operators typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, with annual incomes ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 depending on experience, location, and workload. Earnings can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and the ability to operate larger or more complex equipment.

What is an excavator owner operator?

An Excavator Owner Operator is a skilled professional who owns and operates their own excavator for various construction, demolition, or earthmoving projects. They are responsible for transporting, maintaining, and using their equipment efficiently to complete tasks such as digging trenches, clearing land, and moving heavy materials. Unlike company-employed operators, owner-operators manage their own business, secure contracts, and handle expenses like fuel, repairs, and insurance. This role requires expertise in equipment operation, strong business acumen, and adherence to safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an excavator owner operator?

Excavator Owner Operators require strong mechanical aptitude, equipment operation skills, and a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) or heavy equipment operator certification. They must be proficient in using hydraulic excavators, GPS grade control systems, and routine maintenance tools. Excellent problem-solving, time management, and communication skills help operators coordinate with crew members and manage jobsite demands effectively. These competencies are vital for operating safely, maximizing equipment lifespan, and delivering quality results on construction and excavation projects.

Where do excavator owner operators make the most money?

Excavator owner operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with high construction activity, such as urban areas with ongoing infrastructure projects. States or provinces with strong construction industries and higher cost of living often offer better pay, especially for those with specialized skills and certifications. Income can also vary based on experience, equipment size, and the complexity of projects undertaken.

Is owning an excavator profitable?

Owning an excavator as an owner-operator can be profitable if there is consistent demand for excavation services, proper maintenance, and efficient scheduling. Profitability depends on factors such as equipment costs, project rates, and operational expenses, making it essential to manage costs and secure reliable contracts. Successful operators often have relevant skills, certifications, and a good understanding of the local construction market.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an excavator owner operator?

As an Excavator Owner Operator, your daily responsibilities generally include transporting your equipment to and from job sites, performing inspections and routine maintenance, and operating the excavator to perform digging, grading, trenching, or demolition tasks as required. You will often need to read site plans or instructions, work closely with site supervisors and other contractors, and ensure all work meets safety and project specifications. Efficient time management is important as you'll often manage your own schedule and billing. The role is hands-on and physically demanding, with a strong focus on precision, safety, and coordination with other professionals to keep projects on track.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Colorado are:
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,211 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Hydrovac Excavator Operator

Fiore & Sons Inc

Denver, CO • On-site

$30.14 - $43.61/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

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Fiore & Sons rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Hydrovac Excavator Operator

Fiore & Sons, Inc. is an employee-owned civil construction company with over 70 years of experience serving Colorado and the surrounding states. As an industry leader known for innovation, environmental stewardship, and a people-first culture, we believe in sharing success with our team. We offer stability, career growth, and exceptional benefits, including 100% employer-paid health and dental premiums. At Fiore, every team member is valued, respected, and empowered to make an impact. Build your future with Fiore!

The Hydrovac Excavator Operator is responsible for operating specialized hydrovac equipment to perform non-destructive excavation on civil construction, utility, and pipeline projects. This role entails utilizing high-pressure water and a vacuum system to safely expose underground utilities, clear debris, and complete excavation tasks without damaging surrounding infrastructure. The operator must adhere to all company and regulatory safety protocols, work efficiently within a team, and maintain equipment in excellent working order.

Compensation: $30.14 to $43.61 per hour

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate hydrovac trucks and equipment for non-destructive excavation to expose utilities, pipelines, and other underground assets.
  • Perform hydro excavation around sensitive infrastructure using pressurized water and vacuum systems.
  • Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs on hydrovac equipment, ensuring it is in optimal working condition.
  • Prepare sites for excavation and clean-up after job completion, ensuring all materials and tools are properly stored or disposed of.
  • Follow all company, OSHA, and DOT safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures and hazard assessments.
  • Complete daily pre- and post-operation inspections and report issues to Supervisor.
  • Maintain accurate logs of work completed, including soil disposal tickets, utility locates, and excavation permits. Report any incidents, equipment malfunctions, or other safety concerns to supervisors immediately.
  • Work closely with on-site Foremen to ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
  • Use and understand all safety requirements of excavations and trenches.
  • Convey information to and receive information from supervisors and co-workers effectively.
  • Remain actively aware of surroundings near the equipment to maintain safe operation and distances from potential hazards such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.
  • Coordinate machine functions with crew members in response to hand and audio signals.
  • Potential to receive training with GPS Rover and base for as-built shots on found utilities.
  • Checking primary email on a regular basis for any communication from the company, as this is the company's primary mode of communication.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

    Qualifications:

    • Proven skill in successfully, safely, and efficiently operating hydrovac excavation equipment with mechanical knowledge for equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
    • Possess CDL-B license with tanker endorsement.
    • Extremely self-motivated with the ability to take the lead on assignments as well as follow instructions and work within parameters of excellency established by leadership.
    • Good safety history, including driving record, and a willingness to engage and contribute to ongoing safe work practices, such as daily equipment inspections and reporting incidents, as well as strong knowledge of excavation, trenching and shoring safety standards.
    • Ability to successfully pass job-related physical and applicable skills or abilities assessments as required.
    • Top-notch communication skills with the ability to effectively, respectfully, and positively interact with supervisors, team members, and subcontractors.
    • Dependability and reliability with a good attendance record and the willingness and ability to adapt to scheduling needs as required to accommodate company and project needs, including the ability to work on locations throughout the greater Denver metro area.
    • Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
    • Consistent access to a reliable personal email account.

    Physical Demands:

    • Ability to push/pull/manipulate hand tools up to 54 ft./lbs.
    • Ability to push/pull, open/close engine housing hatches up to 25-46 ft./lbs.
    • Ability to lift/load/carry up to 55 lbs.
    • Ability to climb into and out of equipment
    • Ability to reach above head and 6-inches with fine gross motor skill.
    • Ability to operate various sized fire extinguishers, in training or emergency situations.
    • Ability to dig/shovel various soils while performing daily duties.

    Work Environment:

    Outside work exposed to variant weather conditions (hot, cold, rain, snow) and muddy ground conditions.

    We Offer an Outstanding Benefit Package:

    • Health
      • 100% Employee and 80% Dependent Premium paid
      • Platinum Plus grade plan w/$0 Deductible and Low Out of Pocket Max
    • Dental – 100% Employee and Family Level Premium paid
    • Employer paid Short Term Disability
    • Employer paid Long Term Disability
    • Voluntary Vision Plan paired with Hearing Care - optional
    • Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, and Limited Medical Gap Plans - optional
    • Identity Protection and Pet Insurance - optional
    • FSA Account - optional
    • HSA Account - with HDHP
    • Paid Holidays, Vacation, & Wellness Time Off
    • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match contributions.
    • $25,000.00 Employer paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance – with additional voluntary options

    To Apply

    Equal Opportunity Employer

    Fiore & Sons is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and prohibits discrimination of any kind. All employment decisions at Fiore & Sons are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race or ethnicity, color, religion or belief, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by the law. Applicants that require reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should contact Human Resources at 303-429-8893.


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