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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

GF Transport

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fortville, IN

$25 - $32/hr

... excavation projects. Our company is owned by a franchisee of a high-growth QSR brand, providing a ... Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator with at least 3+ years of ...

Dorsey Excavating

Earthworks Foreman

Noblesville, IN

$80K - $85K/yr

Practical experience operating and troubleshooting heavy equipment grade control GPS systems ... Dorsey Excavating is a growing, family-owned civil construction company that has been delivering ...

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All JobsExcavator Owner Operator JobsExcavator Owner Operator Jobs in Indiana

Excavator Owner Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in Indiana is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $27.21 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 popular job titles related to Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Indiana?

For Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Indiana are:

Excavator Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,772 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Valenti-Held Contractor/Developer, Inc.

Whitestown, IN

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Trackhoe/Excavator Operator – Earthwork Crews

Location: Whitestown, IN

Job Type: Full-time

Company Overview:

At Valenti-Held, we are a leading player in site development, known for our commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. As an employee-owned company, we believe in the value of investing in our people and providing opportunities for long-term career growth. We’re currently looking to add experienced Trackhoe/Excavator Operators to our Earthwork crews to support a variety of site development projects.

If you have experience operating excavators, dozers, skid steers, tractors, and front-end loaders, we want to talk to you! Join our team and become part of a company that values hard work, expertise, and a safe, productive environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Excavator Operation: Operate trackhoe and excavators to load 40-ton haul trucks, dig ponds, and maintain grade for earthwork projects.
  • Site Development Support: Assist in grading and moving materials, ensuring precise excavation and earthwork as per project specifications.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Ensure the safe operation and proper maintenance of excavators and other equipment.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with other crew members to complete projects on time and according to safety standards.
  • Safety Compliance: Follow all company safety protocols and ensure a safe work environment for yourself and others on the job site.

Qualifications:

  • Experience: Proven experience in site development, specifically operating excavators, dozers, skid steers, tractors, and front-end loaders.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including heavy lifting and working in varying weather conditions.
  • Safety-Oriented: Must adhere to all safety policies and procedures.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to ensure smooth operations and project success.
  • Valid Driver’s License: Reliable transportation to and from job sites is required.
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and physical examination.

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage for you and your family.
  • Dental Insurance: Access to dental care services.
  • Vision Insurance: Coverage for eye care and vision needs.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Flexible savings for medical expenses.
  • Life Insurance: Employer-paid life insurance for added peace of mind.
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan: Secure your future with our 401(k) plan.
  • 401(k) Company Match: We match a portion of your 401(k) contributions to help you save more.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Paid vacation and holidays to support work-life balance.
  • Referral Program: Earn rewards for referring qualified candidates to join our team.
  • Employee-Owned Company: Gain a stake in the company’s success and be part of an employee-owned organization.

Why Join Us?

At Valenti-Held, we are not just another construction company. As an employee-owned company, we offer you the opportunity to share in the company’s success and grow with us. With competitive pay, a robust benefits package, and opportunities for career advancement, we are committed to providing a rewarding environment for our employees.

If you’re an experienced Trackhoe/Excavator Operator looking to take your career to the next level, apply today to join our team!