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Mini Excavator Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

JARBO

Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operate equipment: dump truck, backhoe, mini-excavator, sewer jet/vac, tanker, trenchers, tampers ... Qualifications - Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL) * High school diploma or equivalent.

JARBO

Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

Louisville, KY

$25 - $35/hr

Operate equipment: dump truck, backhoe, mini-excavator, sewer jet/vac, tanker, trenchers, tampers ... Qualifications - Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL) * High school diploma or equivalent.

JARBO

Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

Louisville, KY · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operate equipment: dump truck, backhoe, mini-excavator, sewer jet/vac, tanker, trenchers, tampers ... Qualifications - Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL) * High school diploma or equivalent.

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Hazard, KY

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Operator

Louisville, KY

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Lebanon, KY · On-site

Operate light construction equipment such as skid steers, mini-excavators, and forklifts, in a safe ... Proven experience operating light construction equipment. * Strong understanding of safety ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Lebanon, KY · On-site

Operate light construction equipment such as skid steers, mini-excavators, and forklifts, in a safe ... Proven experience operating light construction equipment. * Strong understanding of safety ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Locator

Hazard, KY

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II - Drill Locator

Louisville, KY

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

ADB

Travel Laborer II

Hazard, KY

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator, hydro truck, bucket truck) with limited guidance from an experienced operator * Consistently meets ...

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All JobsMini Excavator Operator JobsMini Excavator Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Mini Excavator Operator information

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$36

How much do mini excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator operator in Kentucky is $22.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mini excavator operator?

A Mini Excavator Operator is responsible for operating a small excavator to dig, move, and grade earth on construction sites. They work in various industries, including construction, landscaping, and utilities. Operators must have experience maneuvering the equipment safely, understanding job site plans, and performing basic maintenance. Attention to safety protocols is essential to prevent accidents and damage. Some positions may require certification or specific training depending on the employer and location.

What does a mini excavator operator do?

A typical day for a Mini Excavator Operator involves performing safety checks on equipment, maneuvering the machine in tight workspaces, and completing tasks such as trenching, grading, or digging based on project needs. Operators coordinate closely with site supervisors and other crew members to understand job requirements and adjust to changing site conditions. Daily responsibilities also include monitoring equipment performance and conducting minor maintenance when necessary. This role requires adaptability, as project priorities may shift throughout the day, but it offers a dynamic environment where teamwork and technical skill are valued.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mini excavator operator?

To thrive as a Mini Excavator Operator, you need practical experience in operating heavy equipment, a solid understanding of safety protocols, and typically a valid operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with controls and attachments of mini excavators, as well as routine maintenance procedures, is essential. Attention to detail, communication skills, and a strong sense of responsibility are key soft skills that help operators work effectively within teams and on diverse job sites. These abilities ensure efficient, precise, and safe operation, minimizing risks and maximizing project productivity.

Do you need a license to operate a mini excavator?

In most regions, a mini excavator operator does not require a specific license, but employers often prefer or require certification in equipment operation and safety training. Some areas may have regulations that mandate operator certification or licensing, especially for commercial or heavy equipment use. It is important to check local laws and employer requirements before operating a mini excavator.

What is the hourly rate for a mini excavator operator?

The hourly rate for a mini excavator operator typically ranges from $20 to $35, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Skilled operators with certifications may earn higher wages, especially in areas with high demand for construction and excavation work.

What jobs can I do with a mini excavator?

Mini excavator operators can perform tasks such as trenching, digging foundations, landscaping, utility installation, and small-scale demolition. These machines are suitable for confined spaces and require knowledge of operating controls and safety procedures.

Where do mini excavator operators make the most money?

Mini excavator operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong construction industries, such as areas experiencing infrastructure development or urban expansion. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in commercial or industrial projects can also influence earning potential, regardless of location.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Kentucky?

For Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Mini Excavator Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

Mini Excavator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,255 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

JARBO

Louisville, KY • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

You will install, repair, and rehabilitate municipal water and sewer collection systems with a focus on cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) and trenchless methods. Work includes main and service installs, tapping, valve and hydrant work, sewer cleaning, CCTV inspection, and CIPP lateral/mainline rehab with steam or UV cure and flow bypass management.

Key Responsibilities – Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

  • Install and repair water distribution lines from drawings; utility locates; pavement sawcut; trench, set pipe, fittings, valves, hydrants; backfill, compact, restore; flush lines and collect samples for EPA reporting.
  • Perform main taps and service installs: size selection, hot taps, curb stops, meter wells/meters; shutoffs/turn-ons.
  • Maintain water assets: rotate valves, flush hydrants, repair/replace valves/hydrants, repair main and service breaks, install/test/repair meters; insulate meter pits.
  • Construct and repair sewer collection: lay new services, jet clean lines, dye tests, replace broken sections, raise/seal manholes, set traffic control.
  • Execute CIPP rehab: access prep, bypass pumping, cleaning and CCTV, liner measurement and wet-out, inversion or pull-in, steam/UV cure, cool-down, lateral reinstatement, post-CCTV and QA records.
  • Operate equipment: dump truck, backhoe, mini-excavator, sewer jet/vac, tanker, trenchers, tampers, compressors, jackhammers, cutoff saws, tile cutters, pumps, tapping tools, hand/power tools.
  • Service equipment: grease/oil, replace hydraulic and high-pressure hoses, inspect fluids, coordinate preventive maintenance, clean/repair hand tools.
  • Safety/compliance: confined space entry, atmospheric monitoring, lockout/tagout, excavation safety, traffic control, digital documentation on tablet/laptop.
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications – Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Able to work long or irregular hours; lift 60+ lbs; kneel, crawl, work in confined spaces and all weather.
  • Proficient with light to heavy equipment and jobsite communication devices.
  • Basic computer/tablet use; working knowledge of MS Office or similar.
  • Valid U.S. driver’s license with acceptable record.
  • Comfortable with heat/cold; able to wear required PPE and respiratory protection if needed.

Preferred Qualifications – Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

  • CDL Class B with Tanker and Air Brakes endorsements.
  • CIPP experience: lateral/mainline, resin impregnation, inversion or pull-in-place, steam or UV cure, reinstatement.
  • Sewer/water CCTV experience; familiarity with NASSCO PACP/MACP/LACP.
  • Experience with bypass pumping setups, flow control, and traffic control.
  • OSHA-10/30, Confined Space, First Aid/CPR.
  • Utility locating and plan reading; GIS or CMMS entry in the field.

What We Offer – Field Technician - Jet-Vac/CCTV Operator (CDL)

  • Pay: $25-$35/hr.
  • Employment: full-time, overtime as needed.
  • Travel: Less than 25%.
  • PPE provided, paid training, advancement path to Crew Lead.

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