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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Hydrovac / CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO ยท On-site

$22 - $35/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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Landscaper/Maintenance Worker

Parker, CO ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Excavator * Tractor * Log splitter * Chainsaw * Mower * Backpack blower * Weed sprayer * Snow ... We are proud to be a family owned and operated business for over 48 years. We sell the quality ...

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Landscaper/Maintenance Worker

Parker, CO ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Excavator * Tractor * Log splitter * Chainsaw * Mower * Backpack blower * Weed sprayer * Snow ... We are proud to be a family owned and operated business for over 48 years. We sell the quality ...

Foreman

Centennial, CO ยท On-site

$24 - $32/hr

We've been family owned and operated since the early 1980s , proudly serving homeowners and ... Operate equipment such as skid loaders, mini-excavators, hydraulic torque heads, and more.

All Demo, a Saturn Five company, is a trusted Denver-based demolition and excavation contractor ... Act as the primary, turnkey liaison for GCs, owners, and municipal engineers from contract award to ...

... owners, utility companies, municipalities, and government agencies. We have proudly served ... Safely operating high pressure wands and flexible vacuum hose for excavation needs. * Assisting ...

... owned and operated construction contracting company that provides both specific and turnkey ... This position requires performing non-destructive excavation using high-pressure water and vacuum ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO ยท On-site

$35.36/hr

Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ... Cooperates with property owner, customer, and emergency personnel when blocking streets or ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO ยท On-site

$35.36/hr

Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ... Cooperates with property owner, customer, and emergency personnel when blocking streets or ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO ยท On-site

$35.36/hr

Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ... Cooperates with property owner, customer, and emergency personnel when blocking streets or ...

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO ยท On-site

$35.36/hr

Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ... Cooperates with property owner, customer, and emergency personnel when blocking streets or ...

Equipment Operator

Boulder, CO ยท On-site

$35.36/hr

Operates heavy machinery such as boom trimmers or mowers, excavators, tub grinder, feller-buncher ... Cooperates with property owner, customer, and emergency personnel when blocking streets or ...

Construction Laborer

Centennial, CO ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Learn to run equipment like skid steers, mini excavators, and hydraulic drive heads * Complete the ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

Showing results 41-60

Excavator Owner Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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.

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 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 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.

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 additional certifications, specialized skills, and the ability to handle larger or more complex equipment.

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 steady work. Successful operators often combine technical skills with business management to maximize earnings.

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, and the complexity of projects undertaken.

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 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,211 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Hydrovac / CDL Driver

HDD CACTUS

Ignacio, CO โ€ข On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description


Job Summary
HDD Cactus is a small family-owned business out of Ignacio, CO in the Southwest part of the state bordering with New Mexico. We specialize in directional drilling, telecom, traffic control, aerial installation, excavation and water pipeline construction.  We are seeking an experienced and professional Hydrovac / CDL Driver to join our team. In this role, you will transport a variety of goods and materials from one location to another. You will plan the most efficient route, ensure adherence to delivery schedules, and perform routine vehicle inspections and preventative maintenance. The ideal candidate has experience driving trucks and makes safety a number one priority.

Responsibilities 
  • Operate and drive heavy haul trucks and hydrovac vehicles safely and efficiently.
  • Operate Mini Excavator and Hydro Excavator, as needed
  • Uses a hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation and removal of debris in construction projects
  • Load and unload materials, ensuring proper securing for transport.
  • Navigate routes effectively to ensure timely deliveries.
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and company policies during operations.
  • Perform routine maintenance checks on equipment and report any issues.
  • Collaborate with team members.
Qualifications
  • Valid CDL license with a clean driving record
  • Must pass CDOT drug/alcohol test
  • Experience in truck driving, particularly with tractor-trailers
  • Proficiency in operating manual transmission vehicles
  • Familiarity with various trailer types, including flatbed and tanker
  • Ability to load and unload cargo safely and efficiently