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Remote Excavator Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Remote Excavator Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$22

$36

How much do remote excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote 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 remote excavator operator?

A Remote Excavator Operator controls heavy excavation equipment from a distance using wireless technology, cameras, and sensors. This role is often used in hazardous or hard-to-reach environments such as mining, demolition, or disaster recovery. Operators maintain precision and safety while maneuvering equipment remotely, reducing risks associated with on-site operations. Strong technical skills and experience with excavator controls are essential for this position.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a remote excavator operator?

To thrive as a Remote Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, attention to safety protocols, and prior experience with excavation work, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with remote operation control systems, GPS-based technologies, and sometimes certification from recognized vocational or operator training programs is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain focused and proactive while working independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient, and precise excavation work, even when working offsite or in distributed teams.

What are the unique challenges faced by remote excavator operators compared to traditional on-site operators?

Remote Excavator Operators often encounter challenges such as limited physical visibility of the job site, requiring a high reliance on camera feeds, sensors, and real-time data to operate machinery accurately. Communication with on-site teams is crucial, as operators must coordinate closely with ground personnel to ensure safety and correct execution of tasks. Another unique aspect is maintaining focus over long periods while monitoring screens and adjusting for any lag in remote controls. Adapting quickly to new technologies and staying updated with remote operation systems can also be essential for long-term career growth in this evolving field.

Where do remote excavator operators make the most money?

Remote excavator operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong construction and infrastructure development, often in areas with higher living costs. Factors such as experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects also influence earning potential, regardless of location.

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

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Remote Excavator Operator jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Remote Excavator Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Excavator Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,255 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Woodworking Machine Operator Supervisor (Woodworking Machine Operator Foreman)

Bureau of Prisons/Federal Prison System

Ashland, KY • On-site, Remote

$37.08 - $43.23/hr

Full-time

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


Job description

Summary
Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position is located in the UNICOR Furniture Factory at a federal correctional facility. UNICOR is a government corporation which employs inmates in manufacturing and producing a variety of goods and services for sale to other government agencies. A primary purpose of this position is to train and supervise inmates in the manufacturing of plastic laminate and wood furniture and other products of various styles and designs.
Along with all other correctional institution employees, incumbent is charged with responsibility for maintaining security of the institution. The staff correctional responsibilities precede all others required by this position and is performed on a regular and recurring basis.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
Career Transition Programs (CTAP): This program applies to Federal and/or DOJ employees who meet the definition of surplus or displaced from a position in the competitive service. To receive selection priority for this position, you must:
  1. Meet CTAP eligibility criteria;
  2. Be rated well-qualified for the position, scoring at least half of the total possible points for the vacancy KSAs or competencies; and
  3. Submit the appropriate documentation to support your CTAP eligibility:
    • A copy of the agency notice (i.e., separation notice or agency RIF letter),
    • Most recent performance appraisal, and
    • Most recent SF-50 showing current/former position, grade, promotion potential, and duty location.
    • See USAJOBS' Career Transition Programs for more information.

EEO Statement/Policy: The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. More information can be found here: U.S Department of Justice - Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
Key Requirements:
  • U.S. Citizenship is Required.
  • See Special Conditions of Employment Section.

Qualifications
To be considered for the position, you must meet the following qualification requirements.
Applicants must have had sufficient training and experience to show their ability to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifications will be determined by comparing your application to the responses to the Applicant Assessment Questions against the guidelines found in the Job Qualification System for Trades and Labor Occupations, WS-4601 Series.
To qualify for this position, you MUST meet the Barely Acceptable level on both screen-out elements (Ability to supervise) and (Aptitude for work with prisoners); receive at least one half of the total possible points; AND you must furnish detailed information on your resume to support your assessment responses to demonstrate that you clearly possess the experience and skills to successfully perform the duties of this position. Failure to specifically identify skills in this field may result in your score being lowered or in being found ineligible for this vacancy.
**Your eligibility for consideration will be based on your responses to the questions in the application.**
Additional information
In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 3307, a maximum entry age of 36 has been established for original appointment to a position in a Bureau of Prisons institution.
The representative rate for this position is $83,813 per annum ($40.16 per hour).
Special Conditions of Employment Section:
Appointment is subject to satisfactory completion of a urinalysis, physical, and background investigation.
All applicants are subject to National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and credit checks.
All applicants not currently working in an institution will be required to complete a qualification inquiry regarding convictions of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence in order to be authorized to carry a firearm.
Successful completion of the "Introduction to Correctional Techniques," three-week training course at Glynco, Georgia is required.
The addresses listed on the USAJOBS account/resume must be the primary residence at the time of application. You may be required to provide proof of residence.
Additional selections may be made if vacancies occur within the life of the certificate.
Although competitive and non-competitive applications are being accepted, the selecting official may elect to have only one group reviewed.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.