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Certified Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Tacoma

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$41.99 - $44.10/hr

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Valid Washington State Driver license at time of ... Candidates for the Heavy Equipment Operator position will be required to successfully complete a ...

Harwell & Company

Heavy Equipment Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Job Summary We have an immediate opening for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Candidates should have at least one year of experience operating a variety of heavy equipment ...

City of Tacoma, WA

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$41.99 - $44.10/hr

Are you skilled in operating heavy equipment and passionate about making an impact in your ... LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS Valid Washington State Driver license at time of ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV

$36.63/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide ... certifications, qualifications, and work location. ABOUT WM WM (WM.com) is North America's leading ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$36.63/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide ... certifications, qualifications, and work location. ABOUT WM WM (WM.com) is North America's leading ...

Dynamic Systems

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tomball, TX · On-site

Candidates with current certifications and extensive equipment operating experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Responsibilities Safely operate forklifts and heavy equipment, including ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$27.79/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide ... certifications, qualifications, and work location. ABOUT WM WM (WM.com) is North America's leading ...

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Certified Heavy Equipment Operator information

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How much do certified heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified heavy equipment operator?

A Certified Heavy Equipment Operator is a trained professional who operates large machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders, typically on construction sites or in industrial settings. These operators have completed specialized training programs and obtained certification to ensure they can safely and efficiently handle heavy equipment. Certification often requires both classroom instruction and hands-on practice, as well as passing written and practical exams. Being certified can improve job prospects and demonstrates a commitment to safety and industry standards.

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

To thrive as a Certified Heavy Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and formal training supported by a recognized certification such as OSHA or NCCER. Familiarity with various construction equipment, GPS-based grade control systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well under pressure help operators excel on busy job sites. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation, minimize workplace accidents, and contribute to successful project completion.

What are some common challenges faced by certified heavy equipment operators on construction sites, and how can they be managed?

Certified Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating tight spaces, working in adverse weather conditions, and coordinating with ground personnel to ensure safety. Effective communication with other crew members and staying alert to changing site conditions are essential for minimizing risks. Regularly inspecting equipment before use and adhering to safety protocols can help operators manage these challenges and maintain a safe, productive work environment.

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

AspectCertified Heavy Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Technician
CredentialsCertification in operating heavy machineryTechnical certifications in repair and maintenance
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsRepair shops, maintenance facilities, industrial sites
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, mining, logging, infrastructureConstruction companies, equipment dealerships, industrial firms

The Certified Heavy Equipment Operator focuses on safely operating machinery on job sites, while the Heavy Equipment Technician specializes in repairing and maintaining that equipment. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their daily tasks and certifications differ significantly.

Which certified heavy equipment operator job pays the most?

Certified heavy equipment operators working in specialized industries such as mining, oil and gas, or large-scale construction tend to earn the highest salaries. Roles requiring advanced certifications, extensive experience, and operating high-demand machinery like cranes or excavators generally offer higher pay. Salaries can also vary based on location, project complexity, and employer size.

What cities are hiring for Certified Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Certified Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

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

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

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

Certified Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator I / II / III

City of Zephyrhills

Zephyrhills, FL • On-site

$32K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment to construct and maintain city streets and parking lots.

  • Perform tasks such as trimming/removing trees, constructing/maintaining sidewalks, cutting/laying sod, and installing/maintaining street signs.

  • Complete other related duties as assigned, including working special events, overtime, or alternate hours as necessary.

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator I  / II / III
POSITION TITLE:
Heavy Equipment Operator I, II, or III
JOB LOCATION:
  • City Maintenance Facility.
  • City of Zephyrhills.
SALARY RANGE:
Heavy Equipment Operator I
  • $32,760.00-$45,864.00 Annual.
  • Starting Salary: $32,760.00/ $15.75/hr.
  • Pay Grade Z-151.

Heavy Equipment Operator II (*)
  • $37,923.80-$53,093.31 Annual.
  • Starting Salary: $37,923.80 / $18.23/hr.
  • Pay Grade Z-154.
Heavy Equipment Operator III (**)
  • $41,810.98-$58,535.38 Annual.
  • Starting Salary: $41,810.98 / $20.10/hr.
  • Pay Grade Z-156.
Non-Exempt / Mandatory Testing

FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT STATUS: Applicable.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral/written instructions and work well with the public and co-workers.
  • Experience in the safe operation of heavy equipment desired.
  • Must have knowledge of safe operations and routine maintenance of equipment.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a Class B CDL with air brake endorsement within six (6) months of employment.
  • Heavy Equipment Operator II:
    • Above requirements in addition to: Work Zone Safety Certification, Storm Water Operator Level I Certification.
  • Heavy Equipment Operator III:
    • Above requirements in addition to: Storm Water Level II Certification, Level I Street Signs and Marking Certification, Work Zone Safety Certification).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:
  • Operates the heavy equipment required to construct and maintain city streets and parking lots.
  • The chosen applicant can also expect to trim/remove trees, construct/maintain City sidewalks, cut/lay sod, perform light carpentry work, install/maintain street signs, and complete other related duties as assigned.
  • May be required to work special after-hour events and functions, overtime, or alternate hours as necessary for the efficient operation of the department.
  • Completes other related duties as assigned.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:
  • The selected candidate will have a background check completed, undergo drug testing, and complete a physical exam before employment.
  • Tasks completed for this position involve regular and sustained physical exertion. 
  • Possession and maintenance of a Florida driver's license is also required before employment.
The compensation package will start at the base salary range and may vary based on the proven abilities of the individual selected. The City of Zephyrhills has an excellent benefits package, which includes medical, dental, life insurance, and Florida Retirement System (FRS).
HOW TO APPLY:
Submit a current job application to:
  • HUMAN RESOURCES.
  • CITY OF ZEPHYRHILLS.
  • 5335 8th STREET.
  • ZEPHYRHILLS, FL 33542.

Applications available at: http://www.ci.zephyrhills.fl.us/194/Employment-Applications 
CLOSING DATE: Until filled.
DATE POSITION AVAILABLE: June 15, 2026
THE CITY OF ZEPHYRHILLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER & DRUG FREE WORKPLACE