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Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Kalispell, MT

LHC

Excavator Operator - Mainline

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: LHC, Inc. Location: Flathead Valley, Montana Pay Range: $26 ... Safety isn't just a priority-it's in our DNA. We're proud to empower our team with top-notch ...

L H C Inc

Excavator Operator - Mainline

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: LHC, Inc. Location: Flathead Valley, Montana Pay Range: $26 ... Safety isn't just a priority--it's in our DNA. We're proud to empower our team with top-notch ...

LHC Group

Excavator Operator - Mainline

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: LHC, Inc. Location: Flathead Valley, Montana Pay Range: $26 ... Safety isn't just a priority-it's in our DNA. We're proud to empower our team with top-notch ...

LHC

Excavator Operator - Mainline

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: LHC, Inc. Location: Flathead Valley, Montana Pay Range: $26 ... Safety isn't just a priority--it's in our DNA. We're proud to empower our team with top-notch ...

LHC

Excavator Operator - Mainline

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Mainline Excavator Operator Company: LHC, Inc. Location: Flathead Valley, Montana Pay Range: $26 ... Safety isn't just a priority-it's in our DNA. We're proud to empower our team with top-notch ...

Amteck, LLC

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in ... Operate and maintain electrical construction equipment, including but not limited to excavators ...

US Navy

Naval Flight Officer and Pilot

Lakeside, MT

Plan, brief, fly, and debrief missions in jets, helicopters, turboprops, and other tactical aircraft to conduct strike, air superiority, anti submarine warfare, maritime patrol, electronic warfare ...

SAV Eyehear

Project Manager

Kalispell, MT · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Skilled at problem-solving and capable of adjusting on the fly * Show enthusiasm for each project ... Previous project management experience in AV or construction-related field * High school diploma or ...

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All JobsFly In Fly Out Excavator Operator JobsFly In Fly Out Excavator Operator Jobs in Kalispell, MT

Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator information

See Kalispell, MT salary details

$13

$25

$41

How much do fly in fly out excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for fly in fly out excavator operator in Kalispell, MT is $25.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a fly in fly out excavator operator?

A Fly In Fly Out (FIFO) Excavator Operator is a heavy equipment operator who typically works on remote mining or construction sites that are not close to major towns or cities. Instead of relocating, these workers are flown to the worksite for a set period (such as a week or two), then flown back home for a break. Their main responsibility is to operate excavators to move earth, rock, or other materials as part of site development, mining, or construction projects. The FIFO arrangement allows companies to access skilled labor for projects in isolated locations, while providing workers with blocks of time off between shifts. This role often requires flexibility, physical fitness, and the ability to work long hours in challenging environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fly in fly out excavator operator?

To thrive as a Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator, you need experience operating heavy machinery, a valid excavator ticket, and often a high-risk work license or relevant certifications. Familiarity with GPS machine guidance systems, safety protocols, and routine equipment maintenance is typically required. Strong communication, adaptability to remote environments, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, safety, and effective collaboration in demanding and isolated job sites.

What are the typical work schedules and living arrangements like for fly in fly out excavator operators?

FIFO Excavator Operators usually work on a rostered schedule, such as two weeks on site followed by one week off, though this can vary by employer and project location. While on site, operators commonly stay in company-provided accommodation, often referred to as 'camps,' which offer meals, laundry, and recreational facilities. The work environment is highly collaborative, with close interaction among other machine operators, supervisors, and maintenance teams. Adapting to the remote lifestyle and extended periods away from home are common challenges, but many operators value the competitive pay and extended time off between shifts.

What is the difference between Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator vs Mobile Plant Operator?

AspectFly In Fly Out Excavator OperatorMobile Plant Operator
CertificationsExcavator license, HR or MC licenseHR license, machinery operation certification
Work EnvironmentRemote sites, construction, miningConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure
Employer & IndustryMining companies, civil constructionMining, construction, infrastructure projects

Both roles often require similar certifications and work in remote or construction environments. The main difference is that Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operators specialize in operating excavators specifically, often working on remote projects, while Mobile Plant Operators may operate a variety of machinery. Both are essential in mining and construction industries, with overlapping skills but different equipment focus.

What are popular job titles related to Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Kalispell, MT?

For Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Kalispell, MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Kalispell, MT look for?

The top searched job categories for Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs in Kalispell, MT are:

What cities near Kalispell, MT are hiring for Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities near Kalispell, MT with the most Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator job openings:

Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fly In Fly Out Excavator Operator job openings in Kalispell, MT as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,975 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Experienced Excavator Operator

Schellinger Construction

Columbia Falls, MT • On-site

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Summary

Reporting to the Project Superintendent, the Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an excavator for road construction activities.

Key Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Excavator Operator include, but are not limited to:

  • Ability to effectively communicate to ground personnel, truck drivers, and supervisors.
  • Perform mainline digging and pipe installation for road construction.
  • Be capable of loading trucks with an excavator in a high production environment.
  • Work with the on-site mechanic or Shop Foreman to resolve any equipment breakdown issues.
  • Perform basic daily maintenance on equipment operated as needed.
  • Operate assigned equipment safely and efficiently.

Safety & Compliance

  • Comply with company safety policies, EEO policies, and standard company procedures.
  • Wear appropriate protective equipment: steel-toed boots, hard hats, eye protection, and ear protection.

Administration

  • Ability to fill out timecard and equipment inspections daily either manually or electronically.

Requirements/Experience

  • Minimum 8 years experience.
  • Must be willing and able to travel to jobsites within northwestern and central Montana. Possession of a camper or RV is recommended.
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D. preferred
  • Have a current driver’s license
  • Knowledge and understanding of pipe installation.
  • Minimum of 2 years experience operating an excavator.
  • Willing to work overtime, as required.
  • The work schedule is weather dependent, so flexibility is required.
  • Work is performed in an outdoor setting, which could include inclement weather, heat and cold, and exposure to dust.
  • Must comply with the company’s drug and alcohol testing requirements.
  • The successful applicant will be required to join or be a member of the Operating Engineers Union.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.