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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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$13

$26

$41

How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in Wisconsin is $26.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $28.89 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

Excavator Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,917 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Aggregate Loader Operator - Michels Road & Stone, Inc.

Michels Corporation

Lomira, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Michels Road & Stone, Inc. is shaping the future. We provide and place materials for road, airport, mass excavation and shoreline protection projects. Our projects are large; the tolerance for error is tiny. Our leaders, field crews and massive fleet of specialized equipment is focused on excellence. Are you? Our work improves lives. Find out how a career at Michels Road & Stone, Inc. can change yours.

As an Aggregate Loader Operator you may perform any combination of the following duties on construction projects; maneuvering, navigating, and operating equipment. Operators use heavy equipment such as skid loaders, front-end loaders, backhoe, excavator and trucks to move materials throughout the job site.

Why Michels Road & Stone, Inc.?

  • We will never ask you to prioritize speed ahead of safety
  • We are family owned and operated
  • We invest an average of $5,000 per employee on training each year
  • We share experience and insights to develop industry leaders
  • We are a part of the Michels family of companies - one of North America's largest, most diversified energy and infrastructure contractors
  • We offer a comprehensive benefits program, including Health, Dental, Life, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Account, Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance, 401(k) plan, Legal Plan, and Identity Theft and Monitoring Plan. Depending on your position and location you may participate in a different benefit plan.  
     

Why you?

  •  You thrive in fast-paced environments under tight deadlines
  •  You relish new challenges and evolving technology
  •  You enjoy collaborating and communicating with your teammates
  •  You like to know your efforts are noticed and appreciated
  •  You enjoy working independently

What it takes:

  •  0-1 year of crusher operator experience in a pit or quarry or related operator experience required
  •  Mechanical aptitude
  •  A valid driver license for the type(s) of vehicles you may be driving and an acceptable driving record
  • Willingness to work under a union collective bargaining agreement
  •  Travel Required

Apply