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Construction Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Construction Foreman

Decatur, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

This includes supervising work performed by laborers or operators, servicing landfill gas flares ... Maintains records and logs of work performed and materials and equipment used * Understands pump ...

WEAVER CONSULTANTS GROUP

Construction Foreman

Decatur, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

This includes supervising work performed by laborers or operators, servicing landfill gas flares ... Maintains records and logs of work performed and materials and equipment used * Understands pump ...

Vector Construction

Foreman

Decatur, IL · On-site

Vector Construction's capabilities include specialty design-build services for new and existing ... Ensuring crews are operating tools and equipment in a safe, proper and productive manner

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All JobsConstruction Equipment Operator JobsConstruction Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL

Construction Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$14

$24

$33

How much do construction equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction equipment operator in Decatur, IL is $24.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators typically work in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators in high-demand industries like oil and gas or large-scale construction. Experienced operators with certifications, such as NCCCO, and those working in remote or hazardous environments tend to earn the highest wages, often exceeding $70,000 annually. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

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 operate specialized machinery such as crane operators, excavator operators, or heavy-duty bulldozer operators, especially with extensive experience and certifications. Crane operators, in particular, tend to earn the highest wages due to the skill and safety requirements involved in their work. Salaries can vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, but experienced crane operators often top the pay scale among equipment operators.

What does a construction equipment operator do?

A construction equipment operator controls and maintains heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders to move materials, prepare sites, and 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 protocols and regulations.

Can you make 100k a year as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL? For Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Construction Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Construction Equipment Operator job openings:
Construction Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Equipment Operator job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,977 per year, or $24 per hour.
Travel Skid Steer Operator

Travel Skid Steer Operator

Knobelsdorff Enterprises

Blue Mound, IL • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Working at Knobelsdorff

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core values. Starting your career with Knobelsdorff means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work.

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, Knobelsdorff (KE) is the place for you.

Job Description

This role supports our Energy Division by preparing our solar fields and staging our Electrical crews. You'll be responsible for operating machinery that directly impacts our project outcome. Success in this role means upholding KE's commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you're someone who takes pride in doing things the right way and thrives in a fast-moving environment, this position is built for you.

What You'll Do

You'll be part of a team that gets things done, works with purpose, and takes pride in the results. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include:

  • Operate heavy equipment and assist with trenching, grading, or material movement
  • Load and unload tools, equipment, and materials from trailers and trucks
  • Support civil work activities including conduit installation and backfilling
  • Assist with photovoltaic construction tasks when not operating machinery
  • Maintain safe operation of equipment in line with job site standards
  • Coordinate with team leads and field personnel for daily work plans
  • Travel and work outdoors in various environmental conditions
  • Follow KE policies, procedures, and safety expectations
  • Support additional duties as needed by project teams
Qualifications

What You Bring

You're someone who shows up ready to work hard, learn fast, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring:

  • Previous experience operating equipment
  • Experience with civil or solar construction preferred
  • Class A CDL preferred
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
  • Willingness to travel extensively (up to 100%), including overnights
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check
  • Valid driver's license with safe driving record
Additional Information

Pay Range

We believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.

Pay Range $25-$35 per hour plus per diem, travel incentive opportunities, and overtime eligibility

 Prevailing wage may apply depending on project location.

Total Rewards Statement

As a full-time employee at Knobelsdorff, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future.

  • 100% employer-paid health and dental coverage for employees
  • HSA contributions to support your medical expenses
  • Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
  • 401(k) with competitive company match
  • Profit sharing and performance-based incentives
  • Paid weekly with competitive wages
  • PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement
  • Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage

We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.

Physical Requirements 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

  • Must be able to sit, stand, kneel, stoop, walk, and sit for long periods of time. 
  • Must be capable of working in inclement conditions to include extreme hot and cold temperatures. 
  • Must be physically capable of lifting and carrying up to 75 lbs. 
  • Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact Knobelsdorff Human Resources via email at [email protected]

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

  • EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters.

If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we'll work with you.

Apply