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Mini Excavator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Royal Turf Inc

Landscape Field Manager

Cedar Falls, IA

$25 - $35/hr

Skid steer, mini-excavator, mini-skid steer, etc. -Knowledge of all maintenance procedures on all equipment -Ability to read landscape plans and drawings. -Leadership capability and demeanor to ...

CDB Utility

Underground Crew Members

Algona, IA · On-site

Ability to operatepower machinery, such as power shovels,horizontal directional drills, mini-excavators, hydro-vac or backhoes. Hand digging of potholes along a route. * Become familiar with digging ...

CDB Utility

Underground Crew Members

Davenport, IA · On-site

Ability to operatepower machinery, such as power shovels,horizontal directional drills, mini-excavators, hydro-vac or backhoes. Hand digging of potholes along a route. * Become familiar with digging ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Des Moines, IA

$29 - $40/hr

Proficient in using mini-excavators, trenchers, and concrete forming tools. * Working knowledge of NEC , electrical conduit installation, and wiring practices. * Must possess or be able to obtain the ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Des Moines, IA

$29 - $40/hr

Proficient in using mini-excavators, trenchers, and concrete forming tools. * Working knowledge of NEC , electrical conduit installation, and wiring practices. * Must possess or be able to obtain the ...

Concordia Group

Civil Crew Foreman

Des Moines, IA

Proficient in using mini-excavators, trenchers, and concrete forming tools. * Working knowledge of NEC , electrical conduit installation, and wiring practices. * Must possess or be able to obtain the ...

TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.

Mechanic

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Service pick-up trucks, semis, plows, drills, mud suckers, aerial equipment's, mini excavators, skid steers, trailers, water truck systems, etc. (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, Bobcat) * Performs regular ...

TD&I Cable

Mechanic

Des Moines, IA

$25 - $40/hr

Service pick-up trucks, semis, plows, drills, mud suckers, aerial equipment's, mini excavators, skid steers, trailers, water truck systems, etc. (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, Bobcat) * Performs regular ...

TD&I Cable Maintenance LLC

Mechanic

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Service pick-up trucks, semis, plows, drills, mud suckers, aerial equipment's, mini excavators, skid steers, trailers, water truck systems, etc. (Vermeer, Ditch Witch, Bobcat) * Performs regular ...

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Mini Excavator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$39

How much do mini excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for mini excavator in Iowa is $24.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $26.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much can I make with a mini excavator?

Mini excavator operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and job complexity. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or landscaping can earn higher wages, especially for specialized or long-term projects.

What is a Mini Excavator job?

A Mini Excavator job involves operating a compact excavator to dig, move, and grade earth on construction or landscaping sites. Operators use the machine to perform tasks like trenching, backfilling, and site preparation in confined or small areas. This role requires knowledge of safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and efficient machine handling. Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience or certification in heavy equipment operation.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Mini Excavator Operator?

A Mini Excavator Operator’s daily tasks typically include inspecting and maintaining their equipment, reading site plans, precisely digging, trenching, and backfilling as required by the job. Operators often work closely with supervisors, site managers, and other equipment operators to ensure each phase of a project is completed on schedule and within safety guidelines. In addition to hands-on operating duties, they may assist with site preparation, material moving, and routine documentation of work completed. This role offers variety each day and requires good communication and teamwork on busy worksites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Mini Excavator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mini Excavator Operator, you need hands-on experience operating compact excavating equipment, strong mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of safety protocols, proficiency with controls specific to mini excavators, and, in some cases, possession of relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training are typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and clear communication help operators succeed on job sites and coordinate with team members effectively. These skills ensure safe, precise excavation work and smooth collaboration within construction or landscaping projects.

Is owning a mini excavator profitable?

Mini excavator operators can generate profit by providing excavation services for small-scale projects, landscaping, or construction work. Profitability depends on factors such as equipment costs, maintenance, job demand, and efficient scheduling. Proper skills and certifications can also improve job opportunities and income potential.

What's the average hourly rate for a mini excavator?

The average hourly rate for a mini excavator operator typically ranges from $20 to $40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Operators with specialized skills or certifications may command higher rates, especially for commercial or large-scale projects.

What jobs can I do with a mini excavator?

Mini excavators are used in various construction and landscaping jobs, including trenching, digging foundations, utility installation, grading, and small-scale demolition. They are suitable for projects in confined spaces and require operator certification and safety training. These machines are valuable for residential, commercial, and infrastructure work.
What are popular job titles related to Mini Excavator jobs in Iowa? For Mini Excavator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mini Excavator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Mini Excavator jobs in Iowa are:
Mini Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mini Excavator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,103 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator, Utility Construction

Push Inc

Iowa City, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating assigned equipment used to install fiber-optic cable, copper cable, coaxial cable, single and three phase power cable and possibly sewer or water facilities. This position will assist with all aspects of the job requiring operation of both smaller and larger scale heavy equipment along with possible or occasional basic labor duties. Must have field experience digging with heavy equipment preferably around utilities in rural and urban areas, experience reading prints and schematics and the ability to train and mentor other team members.

PUSH, Inc. is a privately owned premier communications and power utility contractor headquartered in Rice Lake, WI. who has been providing telecom infrastructure to connect people globally for 50 years through its dedicated team members who have integrity and continually strive for excellence.

Physical and Environmental Factors:

  • Ability to work outdoors and to work in all types of outdoor weather.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, carry, and lift as needed.
  • Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet, and limbs in performing skilled movement.
  • Ability to travel and be away from home for extended periods of time.
  • 100% Field.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

  • Field experience with digging operations in rural and urban areas around utilities.
  • Responsible for daily maintenance on construction equipment used.
  • Ability to operate equipment, including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Successfully excavate around existing utilities.
  • Provide training and assistance to co-workers learning to be operators.
  • Perform routine labor (potholing, set-up of equipment, conduit/duct/cable placement, set pedestals) as required.
  • Drive tow vehicle hauling equipment to and around job site.
  • Assist with all aspects of the job including basic labor responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience:

  • Work Experience: This person should have demonstrated field experience with digging operations around utilities in rural and urban areas. Must have experience operating utility construction equipment including but not limited to backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe.
  • Industry Knowledge: General knowledge of utility construction procedures, including print reading. In addition, have knowledge of or be familiar with all procedures and associated tools and equipment necessary to install underground utilities in the most effective, safe, and profitable manner.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver’s License, Class A CDL preferred.
  • Must be able to pass pre-employment screenings.
  • Demonstrated field experience operating backhoe, mini excavator, cable plow, or track hoe around utilities.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Ability to maintain equipment and hand tools.
  • Ability to read, comprehend and carry out instructions.
  • Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Abide all company and manufacturer safety procedures and industry safety standards, in addition to attending mandatory safety meetings.

Benefits of Joining the PUSH Team:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability – Industry Leading!
  • Free Teladoc, No-Cost Care Options
  • 401K with Company Match up to 3%
  • Competitive pay, weekly checks
  • Paid PTO and Holidays
  • Bonus Potential
  • Training & Advancement Opportunities
  • Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • In-house CDL Program
  • Unlimited Referral Bonus Program
  • And Much More!

Push, Inc is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEOC/M/F/D/V)