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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Central Specialties, Inc.

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Excavator Operator Central Specialties, Inc. is a third generation, family owned, general road ... Family owned and operated * Best equipment and technology * Building the best roads start to finish ...

Central Specialties

Excavator Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Family owned and operated * Best equipment and technology * Building the best roads start to finish ... We promote from within An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery ...

Bituminous Roadways

Excavator Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22.75 - $30/hr

Excavator Operator The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an ... Family owned and operated * Paid Training * Advancement opportunities - we aim to promote within

Central Specialties

Dozer Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

Family owned and operated * Best equipment and technology * Building the best roads start to finish ... and excavation projects. Your primary responsibility will be to operate heavy machinery ...

Central Specialties, Inc.

Dozer Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$27 - $46/hr

Family owned and operated * Best equipment and technology * Building the best roads start to finish ... and excavation projects. Your primary responsibility will be to operate heavy machinery ...

Central Specialties

Scraper Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

Family owned and operated * Best equipment and technology * Building the best roads start to finish ... These machines are used to excavate, load, and transport earth, rock, and other materials on ...

Central Specialties, Inc.

Scraper Operator

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$27 - $46/hr

Family owned and operated * Best equipment and technology * Building the best roads start to finish ... These machines are used to excavate, load, and transport earth, rock, and other materials on ...

Fehn Companies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Albertville, MN · On-site

$45.61/hr

Application Instructions Fehn Companies is a family owned and operated, gravel and excavation company established over 50 years ago. Fehn's office is located in Albertville, Minnesota and they ...

Fehn Companies, Inc.

General Application

Albertville, MN · On-site

$17/hr

Application Instructions Fehn Companies is a family-owned and operated gravel and excavation company with over 50 years of experience, Fehn Companies is headquartered in Albertville, Minnesota, and ...

C S McCrossan, Inc.

Operator

Saint Michael, MN · On-site

$39.30 - $48.96/hr

McCrossan, a family-owned enterprise with affiliated companies in highway/heavy civil general ... Duties may include breaking up existing road, moving dirt and terrain and excavating areas ...

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All JobsExcavator Owner Operator JobsExcavator Owner Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Excavator Owner Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in Minnesota is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $28.03 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 popular job titles related to Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Excavator Owner Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
Excavator Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,288 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Excavator Operator

Central Specialties, Inc.

Alexandria, MN • On-site

$21.75 - $28.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Excavator Operator

Central Specialties, Inc. is a third generation, family owned, general road contracting company serving Minnesota and the Dakotas. We take pride in the reputation we have built for providing responsive customer service, on the job safety, efficient and high-quality products and services. Our skilled workforce of 425+ employees is dedicated to quality and excellence. It's the pride our employees take in their work that keeps CSI at the top of the industry.

What sets us apart!

  • Family owned and operated
  • Best equipment and technology
  • Building the best roads start to finish

Benefits of joining our team!

  • Traveling throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Iowa
  • Winters off
  • Working outdoors
  • Company paid training opportunities
  • We promote from within

An Excavator Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery, specifically excavators, to perform various excavation and earthmoving tasks. This role involves ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the excavator, inspecting and maintaining equipment, and adhering to project specifications and safety regulations.

Requirements:

  • Must be able to travel throughout Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Iowa
  • Regular, consistent attendance and regular overtime at all assigned job sites.
  • Valid Driver's License, preferably Class A.
  • Acceptable motor vehicle record.
  • Previous heavy equipment operating experience.
  • Strong mechanical skills.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
  • Physical strength and endurance to perform all principal duties and responsibilities

Responsibilities:

  • Maneuver the excavator safely and accurately to avoid damage to property, underground utilities, or other equipment.
  • While operating equipment, maintain clear and effective communication with the site supervisor, team members, and ground personnel using verbal and non-verbal hand signals.
  • Prioritize safety at all times, following company and industry safety guidelines and protocols.
  • Perform routine maintenance on the excavator, such as greasing, checking fluid levels, and cleaning the equipment.
  • Operate excavators to dig trenches, and other excavations following project blueprints and instructions.
  • Adhere to proper trenching and excavation techniques to prevent cave-ins and ensure safe working conditions.
  • Performs other tasks as needed.

Benefits:

  • Group Health Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • 401 (k) Company Match
  • 401(k) Company Discretionary Contribution
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Employee Sick and Safe Time (Part-time and seasonal employees)
  • Per Diem
  • Electronic Direct Deposit

Central Specialties is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

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