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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Laborer | Carpenter

Hobart, IN

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

As a family-owned and operated company, we take building personally. POSITION SUMMARY Whether you ... excavation, site logistics, and general construction activities. • Read and follow plans ...

Laborer | Carpenter

Hobart, IN

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

As a family-owned and operated company, we take building personally. POSITION SUMMARY Whether you ... excavation, site logistics, and general construction activities. • Read and follow plans ...

Showing results 21-40

Excavator Owner Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

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 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:
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.

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 hours ago


Job description

Earthwork Foreman – Lead Regional Civil and Heavy Construction for Dorsey Excavating


Job Overview:

  • Company: Dorsey Excavating
  • Salary/Pay Rate: $80,000 - $85,000 per year plus incentive opportunities.
  • Company - Provided Truck (Includes Fuel Card Plus & Vehicle Related Expenses)
  • Location: Noblesville, Indiana (Travel required)
  • Job/Employment Type: Full Time
  • Project Scope: Residential and Commercial Civil Earthwork
  • Mandatory Licences & Certifications: None Required


The Opportunity:

You will serve as a vital field leader, driving the successful execution of regional civil earthwork and site development projects. This role gives you the autonomy to direct operations and troubleshoot technical issues independently on-site.


You will join a growing, family-owned business that values your individual contribution, knows your name, and provides a clear path for long-term career advancement.


How You Will Make an Impact:

  • Direct daily field operations and coordinate critical excavation, grading, and site preparation tasks.
  • Supervise and mentor an on-site field crew of 3-5 professionals to ensure high-quality project delivery.
  • Interpret complex blueprints, grading plans, and layout stakes to guide daily heavy equipment operations.
  • Troubleshoot on-site GPS systems and resolve technical or mechanical issues independently to prevent delays.
  • Coordinate directly with project superintendents and other trades to manage daily schedules and timelines.
  • Monitor safety protocols and conduct daily hazard assessments to maintain complete OSHA compliance.


Required Qualifications & Experience:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience specifically serving as an Earthwork Foreman or heavy civil field lead.
  • Proven ability to operate heavy equipment and successfully manage field crews of 3-5 employees.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, grading plans, and layout staking.
  • Practical experience operating and troubleshooting heavy equipment grade control GPS systems.


Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Valid OSHA 30 certification.
  • Prior experience managing both residential and commercial earthwork operations.


Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive salary between $80,000 and $85,000 based on experience.
  • Production based incentive opportunities
  • 401(k) retirement savings program with a 3% employer contribution.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) available.
  • Weekly pay cycle 
  • Paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
  • Company-provided safety equipment and specialized manufacturer training.
  • Company- provided truck.
  • Access to company events and career advancement opportunities.


About Us:

Dorsey Excavating is a growing, family-owned civil construction company that has been delivering quality work for 35 years.

We pride ourselves on creating a supportive workplace where you are never just a number, aiming to be the last company you ever want to work for.


Dorsey Excavating is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.