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Excavator Owner Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Omaha, NE · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Fishers, IN

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Roto-Rooter

Excavator Operator

Centennial, CO

$85K - $103K/yr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

New

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Excavator Operator

Newark, DE · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Overview Excavator Operator Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain ... Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor ...

Halifax Paving

Be Seen First

Excavator Operator

Ormond Beach, FL · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Halifax Paving, family owned and operated since 1955, has a proven track record of providing high ... We are currently seeking an experienced Backhoe/Excavator Operator with a background in all phases ...

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Excavator Owner Operator information

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How much do excavator owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for excavator owner operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of owner operators make the most money?

In the excavator owner-operator field, those who specialize in high-demand projects such as large-scale construction, infrastructure, or mining tend to earn the most. Additionally, operators with advanced skills, certifications, and modern, well-maintained equipment can command higher rates and increase profitability.

Is there a demand for excavator operators?

There is a strong demand for excavator operators due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and excavation work. Skilled operators with certifications and experience are often sought after in the construction and mining industries, with job opportunities available in various regions.

What is an Excavator Owner Operator job?

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 in the Excavator Owner Operator position, and why are they important?

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 operators make a year?

Excavator owner operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled operators with certifications and a strong work record can earn higher wages, especially when working in high-demand areas or on specialized jobs.

Is owning an excavator profitable?

Owning an excavator as an owner-operator can be profitable if there is consistent demand for excavation services, and the operator manages costs such as maintenance, fuel, and insurance effectively. Profitability depends on factors like project volume, pricing, and operational efficiency, with many operators earning a competitive income in the construction and landscaping industries. Proper skills, certifications, and equipment maintenance are essential for sustained profitability.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for 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.

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What cities are hiring for Excavator Owner Operator jobs? Cities with the most Excavator Owner Operator job openings:
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Excavator Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Owner Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Excavator Operator

Excavator Operator

Roto-Rooter Services Company

Springfield, VA • On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Roto-Rooter rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

150th of 218 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Overview
Excavator Operator/General Laborer
Founded in 1935, Roto-Rooter is North America's largest plumbing, drain cleaning, and water cleanup services provider. Roto-Rooter operates businesses in over 100 company-owned branches, independent contractor territories, and approximately 400 independent franchise operations, serving approximately 90% of the U.S. population and parts of Canada.
If job security, top pay, excellent benefits, and career advancement representing a well-known national brand are what you're looking for, Roto-Rooter is the company for you. We pride ourselves on being a great place to work, providing excellent pay, flexible work schedules and top benefits.
We are growing and have an excellent opportunity for a Skilled Heavy Equipment Operator, especially backhoe and/mini excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements.
Responsibilities
  • Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials on residential and commercial job sites.
  • Load, unload and secure equipment on transport trailers according to guidelines.
  • Follow OSHA and Roto-Rooter safety procedures.
  • Work collaboratively with a crew to efficiently complete excavation work on various projects.
  • Interact with customers as needed, providing excellent customer service and addressing their requirements professionally.
  • Maintain excavation equipment and gather all necessary equipment from the branch and/or rental companies to ensure smooth operations during excavation tasks.
  • Perform excavation work in confined spaces and open trenches, adhering to safety protocols and guidelines.
  • Locate and arrive at job sites promptly, ensuring safe driving and operation of service vehicles between locations.

Requirements
  • Essential requirement: Construction experience in both residential and commercial projects.
  • Mandatory requirement: Possession of a current CDL Class A license for this position.
  • Trenchless water, sewer & gas experience is a plus.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends, as required for the role.
  • Complete jobs within specified timelines.

Benefits
At Roto-Rooter, we believe our most significant investment is in our employees. We prioritize the health and well-being of our team and their families. That's why we offer an extensive employee benefit package including:
  • Medical insurance with a Prescription Drug Card
  • Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Training
  • Life Insurance
  • Matching 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Profit Sharing

Roto-Rooter offers excellent career paths for military veterans and personnel transitioning to civilian professions. Throughout nearly 100 years in business, we've found that military training and structure are an excellent fit for our company.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, military status, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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