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Certified Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Bolingbrook, IL

$21/hr

Operating powered industrial trucks (PIT) as listed above (will certify on equipment) * Performing daily checks on equipment prior to operating * Following all safety guidelines to ensure a safe ...

Ulta Beauty

Equipment Operator

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Operating powered industrial trucks (PIT) as listed above (will certify on equipment) * Performing daily checks on equipment prior to operating * Following all safety guidelines to ensure a safe ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$21/hr

Operating powered industrial trucks (PIT) as listed above (will certify on equipment) * Performing daily checks on equipment prior to operating * Following all safety guidelines to ensure a safe ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Greenwood, IN · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Operating powered industrial trucks (PIT) as listed above (will certify on equipment) * Performing daily checks on equipment prior to operating * Following all safety guidelines to ensure a safe ...

Ulta Beauty

Equipment Operator

Greenwood, IN · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

Operating powered industrial trucks (PIT) as listed above (will certify on equipment) * Performing daily checks on equipment prior to operating * Following all safety guidelines to ensure a safe ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Greenwood, IN

$18 - $24.75/hr

Operating powered industrial trucks (PIT) as listed above (will certify on equipment) * Performing daily checks on equipment prior to operating * Following all safety guidelines to ensure a safe ...

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Certified Equipment Operator information

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$13

$22

$31

How much do certified equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified equipment operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified equipment operator?

Certified Equipment Operators are professionals who have received specialized training and certification to safely operate heavy machinery, such as forklifts, cranes, bulldozers, and other construction or industrial equipment. Their certification demonstrates that they have met industry standards for safety and operational skills. Certified Equipment Operators are crucial in construction, manufacturing, and logistics sectors, ensuring that equipment is used correctly to prevent accidents and maintain productivity. Employers often require certification to comply with safety regulations and reduce workplace risks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified equipment operator?

To thrive as a Certified Equipment Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma along with relevant certification or licensing. Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and GPS or telematics systems is often required. Attention to detail, situational awareness, and strong communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely on job sites. These skills are crucial to ensure safe operations, prevent costly accidents, and maintain project timelines.

What are some common challenges faced by certified equipment operators on a construction site?

Certified Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in diverse weather conditions, navigating tight or crowded workspaces, and maintaining strict safety standards. They must remain vigilant to avoid hazards when operating heavy machinery near other workers or structures. Additionally, operators frequently collaborate with site supervisors and crew members to coordinate equipment use, which requires strong communication skills and adaptability to shifting project priorities.

What is the difference between Certified Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Technician?

AspectCertified Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a certification or license in equipment operationRequires technical certifications or ASE certification in heavy equipment repair
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery on construction sites, industrial sites, or mining locationsPerforms maintenance and repairs on heavy equipment in repair shops or field service
Employer & IndustryConstruction, mining, agriculture, and industrial sectorsConstruction, mining, and equipment rental companies

The main difference is that Certified Equipment Operators focus on operating machinery safely and efficiently, while Heavy Equipment Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining that equipment. Both roles are essential in industries that rely on heavy machinery, but they require different skill sets and certifications.

How to become a certified equipment operator?

To become a certified equipment operator, individuals typically need to complete a training program that covers equipment operation and safety procedures, often provided by vocational schools or training centers. Many states or employers require certification from organizations such as the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) or similar, which involves passing written and practical exams. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions is also common before obtaining certification.

What cities are hiring for Certified Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Certified Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Certified Equipment Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Certified Equipment Operator jobs?

For Certified Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Certified Equipment Operator jobs near you

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC • On-site

Tradesmen International, LLC
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Tradesmen International, LLCexternal

$32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview

Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Equipment Operators for projects located in or around Washington, DC. This is a first shift opportunity and the pay range is up to $32/hour based on experience and skill level. If you are a Equipment Operator and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career! 

Job Scope:    

  • Operating Mini EX 
  • Digging clean precise trench lines
  • Managing excess soil removed from trench
  • Refilling trench after work is preformed 
  • Maintaining grading

Preferred:

  • 7B certification

Qualifications

Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.

Our comprehensive benefits include:

  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program – earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability

“Be Safe” from fraud!  Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other “up front”  costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.

Click here to visit Tradesmen’s full website.