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Construction Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

Milton CAT

Construction Equipment Operator

Londonderry, NH · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Experience as a heavy equipment operator is a plus * Basic understanding of construction layout and grading * Proficient in the use of a computer and related software * Detail oriented with a high ...

MNL

Construction Equipment Operator

Otsego, MN · On-site

$30/hr

The Opportunity We are looking for an experienced Equipment Operator to join our growing construction division based out of Otsego, MN . This role will operate a range of large and small equipment ...

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Construction Equipment Operator information

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$14

$24

$34

How much do construction equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction equipment operator in the United States is $24.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Construction Equipment Operator Do?

Construction equipment operator is an umbrella term that can cover many different careers. Generally speaking, a construction equipment operator is an individual who operates some form of heavy machinery used in the construction of building, roads, bridges, or other structures. In this position, your duties vary with the type of equipment and projects on which you work. In most cases, you use heavy machinery to move, excavate, extract, or dig up dirt and maneuver or lift construction materials at a construction site. You are also responsible for cleaning and maintaining your equipment, following proper safety standards, and assisting your fellow crew members to do the same.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who specialize in heavy machinery such as crane operators, excavator operators, or bulldozer operators, especially with extensive experience and certifications. They typically earn higher wages in industries like oil and gas, mining, or large-scale construction projects, with salaries varying based on location, skill level, and project complexity.

What does a construction equipment operator do?

A construction equipment operator controls and maintains heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders to assist in construction projects. They operate equipment safely, follow project plans, and often require certification or training to handle specific machinery. Their work environment is typically outdoors on construction sites, and they must adhere to safety regulations.

Is a CDL required to operate construction equipment?

Construction equipment operators typically do not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, or cranes. However, if the job involves driving large trucks or transporting equipment on public roads, a CDL may be required. Certification in equipment operation and safety training are often necessary for these roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Construction Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Construction Equipment Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or GED, sometimes complemented by specialized training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, as well as certifications like OSHA or NCCCO, are commonly required. Strong hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and communication skills help operators work efficiently and safely on dynamic job sites. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring both project success and the safety of all workers involved.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Construction equipment operators can earn around $700 a day in high-demand projects, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and experience. Such pay rates are common in large-scale construction, heavy civil projects, or when working overtime or in remote locations. Earnings vary based on location, project complexity, and union or contractor agreements.

What is the difference between Construction Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectConstruction Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roads, bridgesConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructureConstruction, mining, forestry

Construction Equipment Operators and Heavy Equipment Operators often share similar certifications and work environments. The main difference lies in the specific equipment they operate and the industries they serve. Construction Equipment Operators typically focus on construction sites, while Heavy Equipment Operators may work in mining or forestry. Both roles require safety training and sometimes a CDL, making them closely related career paths within heavy machinery operation.

What are some common challenges faced by Construction Equipment Operators on job sites?

Construction Equipment Operators often work in fast-paced, dynamic environments where weather conditions, tight deadlines, and coordination with other trades can present challenges. Navigating around other workers and equipment safely requires constant attention and communication. Additionally, adapting to different types of machinery and staying updated on safety protocols are crucial for both efficiency and workplace safety. Operators must also be prepared to perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting on their equipment to minimize downtime.
More about Construction Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Construction Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Construction Equipment Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Construction Equipment Operator jobs? The top employers for Construction Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Construction Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Construction Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Construction Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Construction Equipment Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Construction Equipment Operator jobs? For Construction Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Construction Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Equipment Operator job openings in the United States 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 $51,524 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Construction Equipment Operator

Construction Equipment Operator

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

La Mesa, CA

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the opportunity to work with a variety of heavy equipment—excavators, backhoes, graders, skid steers, cranes, forklifts, and more—while playing a critical role in installing, repairing, and maintaining essential infrastructure.

As a Construction Equipment Operator, you'll not only operate motorized equipment, but also lead a crew, train team members, and ensure every job site meets the highest safety standards. 

In this role, you will play a critical part in the installation, maintenance, and repair of the District's water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Your skills and leadership will be essential in responding to emergency situations, coordinating field activities, and delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that support our community. 

Construction Equipment Operators may be required to work flexible hours and/or extended work shifts including weekends and holidays, work rotating one-week standby shifts, and respond to after-hour emergency calls.  

This position is eligible for appointment within the following Salary Grades: 

Salary Grade 20L: $38.30 - $54.17/hour

Salary Grade 23L: $42.08 - $59.51/hour

To view the complete job classification for this position, click here.

Experience & Licensing Requirements:

Training/Experience Required:

1. High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.) and four years experience in basic construction, preferably underground construction and the operation of heavy equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

2. Incumbents must be insurable and pass a background check.

Licensing Requirements:

1. Valid California driver’s license; Class A commercial driver’s license required and must be maintained throughout employment.

2. Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 certificate from the Water Resources Control Board.

3. Grade 3 is preferable or CWEA (California Water Environment Association) Collection System Maintenance Grade 2 or higher is preferable.

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