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Big Iron Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Geoprobe Systems®

Machine Design Engineer

Salina, KS · On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

This individual will enjoy working with and around "big iron" (we're not making little widgets) and will design components, and systems for machine chassis, powertrain, and control systems. They will ...

MiconeStaffing

CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$24/hr

CAT 980 Wheel Loader Operator -- Big Iron, Steady Schedule Reno, NV area | Full-Time | $24.00/hour | Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM The Opportunity If you know your way around a 980, you know most ...

SkySource Solutions

Be Seen First

CNC Machinist (Large Lathe) 2nd shift

Pooler, GA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Work closely with Engineering & Quality teams to deliver first-time-right results If you love big iron, tight tolerances, and running your own machine -- this is your lane. What You Bring * 5-7+ ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ocala, FL · On-site

$77K/yr

N/A Operate Big Iron. Earn Big. Build a Real Career. If you've got experience on cranes, loaders, or heavy equipment and you want a job that pays you what you're worth - this is it. At Trademark ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ocala, FL · On-site

$77K/yr

N/A Operate Big Iron. Earn Big. Build a Real Career. If you've got experience on cranes, loaders, or heavy equipment and you want a job that pays you what you're worth - this is it. At Trademark ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$77K/yr

N/A Operate Big Iron. Earn Big. Build a Real Career. If you've got experience on cranes, loaders, or heavy equipment and you want a job that pays you what you're worth - this is it. At Trademark ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$77K/yr

N/A Operate Big Iron. Earn Big. Build a Real Career. If you've got experience on cranes, loaders, or heavy equipment and you want a job that pays you what you're worth - this is it. At Trademark ...

Iron.io

Marketing Internship (Paid)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... big Love defining and building components for the modern web stack Love beer Don't like meetings (unless they involve beer) Thanks and we look forward to hearing from you. The Iron.io Team www.iron ...

Iron.io

Marketing Internship (Paid)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

... scale big * Love defining and building components for the modern web stack * Love beer * Don't like meetings (unless they involve beer) Thanks and we look forward to hearing from you! The Iron.io ...

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Big Iron information

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$15

$26

$39

How much do big iron jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for big iron in the United States is $26.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a big iron?

'Big Iron' refers to large, powerful mainframe computers and the professionals who work with them. Big Iron jobs typically involve managing, maintaining, or developing software for mainframe systems used by large organizations for critical operations. Roles may include mainframe systems administrators, COBOL programmers, and data center engineers. These jobs require specialized knowledge of mainframe operating systems, programming languages, and high-availability computing environments. Big Iron professionals play a key role in ensuring reliability, security, and performance of enterprise IT infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced when maintaining and operating big iron (mainframe) systems in modern IT environments?

Maintaining and operating Big Iron, or mainframe systems, often involves integrating legacy infrastructure with newer technologies, which can be challenging due to compatibility and security concerns. Mainframe specialists may also face the task of ensuring high availability and performance while supporting complex, mission-critical applications. Additionally, the workforce for mainframe expertise is aging, so collaborating with cross-functional teams and mentoring less experienced staff is common. Staying current with ongoing updates and compliance requirements is essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mainframe systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mainframe Systems Engineer, you need expertise in mainframe operating systems (such as IBM z/OS), strong problem-solving skills, and a background in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools like JCL, RACF, IBM DB2, and monitoring software is essential, along with relevant certifications like IBM Certified System Programmer. Attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining the reliability, security, and efficiency of critical enterprise computing environments.

What is the difference between Big Iron vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectBig IronHeavy Equipment Operator
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), certifications for heavy machineryOSHA training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, transportationConstruction sites, excavation, roadwork
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, construction firms, transportationConstruction companies, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Big Iron typically refers to large trucks or heavy-duty machinery used in industries like mining and transportation, often requiring a CDL. Heavy Equipment Operators specifically operate machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders on construction sites. While both roles involve heavy machinery, Big Iron emphasizes large vehicles used for hauling and transport, whereas Heavy Equipment Operators focus on operating construction equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right opportunities in the heavy machinery industry.

More about Big Iron jobs

What cities are hiring for Big Iron jobs?

Cities with the most Big Iron job openings:

What states have the most Big Iron jobs?

States with the most job openings for Big Iron jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Big Iron jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Big Iron jobs are:

Big Iron jobs near you
Infographic showing various Big Iron job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,689 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Machine Design Engineer

Geoprobe Systems®

Salina, KS • On-site

$72K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Machine Design Engineer works with a team to design, build, and test drill rigs for the environmental, geotechnical, exploration, and water well markets. The successful candidate for this position will be able to take a project from concept to completion, taking into account budgeting and operational considerations. This individual will enjoy working with and around “big iron” (we’re not making little widgets) and will design components, and systems for machine chassis, powertrain, and control systems. They will also enjoy getting out in the shop to test and refine their projects (our engineers typically spend less than 70% of their time working at their desk). 

Interested in applying? Save time, apply directly at geoprobe.com/join-our-team

Engineering Team | Geoprobe Systems®

Job Responsibilities
  • Work independently and collaboratively to design and develop new ideas, as well as improve existing products
  • Assume responsibility for all aspects of engineering for the assigned product including:
    • Design development and analysis
    • Testing and refining of the product
    • Proper documentation
  • Create drawings for components and assemblies
  • Occasionally work with sales or service to address customer issues
You might be a good fit if you...
  • Have a natural curiosity and a desire to learn
  • Are comfortable in a shop setting
  • Possess strong interpersonal communication (verbal and written), and organizational skills
  • Have a positive, cooperative attitude (especially in pressure situations) with a commitment to quality work and achieving deadlines
  • Are passionate for improvement: you try to inspire others towards excellence

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering 
  • Job experience or internships related to job field
  • Strong technical base in 3D CAD and engineering fundamentals
  • Willingness to travel
  • Able to work 45-hour work week

Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Profit Sharing

Geoprobe Systems® is an Equal Opportunity Employer.