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Construction Equipment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Mortenson

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... ABOUT MORTENSON As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction ...

M. A. Mortenson Company

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... ABOUT MORTENSON As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction ...

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All JobsConstruction Equipment Operator JobsConstruction Equipment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Construction Equipment Operator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do construction equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction equipment operator in Rio Rancho, NM is $23.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $25.77 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a construction equipment operator?

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 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.

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.

More about Construction Equipment Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Construction Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Construction Equipment Operator job openings:

Construction Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Equipment Operator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,464 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Grading Operator Tech III

Spear D Construction

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$54K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

At Spear D Construction, we take pride in being an award-winning company built on a foundation of excellence and innovation. Our life-changing culture fosters growth, collaboration, and success, making us a sought-after workplace for experienced professionals looking to elevate their careers.
Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide a stable and supportive work environment while earning the respect of our peers and industry leaders. We achieve this by staying true to our core values-honesty, hard work, respect, compassion, and consistency-which guide everything we do.
Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Grading Operator Tech III to join our construction team. This position is responsible for operating heavy grading equipment, performing precise finish and rough grading, and supporting crew leadership to ensure projects are completed safely, accurately, and on schedule.
Job Requirements
  • Operate heavy grading equipment including motor graders, dozers, loaders, and rollers
  • Perform rough and finish grading according to plans, elevations, and specifications
  • Read and interpret construction plans, grade stakes, blueprints, and elevations
  • Set and maintain proper grade, slope, and drainage
  • Use lasers, GPS, or conventional grade control systems as required
  • Perform earthwork, subgrade preparation, and compaction
  • Coordinate with foremen, survey crews, and other operators to maintain workflow
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Identify and correct grade issues to meet project specifications
  • Ensure compliance with OSHA, site safety requirements, and company policies
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe jobsite

Job Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in grading and heavy equipment operation
  • Proven experience operating motor graders and related grading equipment
  • Strong knowledge of grading techniques, drainage, and soil compaction
  • Ability to read and understand plans, grade stakes, and elevations
  • Experience with GPS or laser grading systems preferred

Salary
$54,080 - $66,560
Why choose us?
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Enjoy Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, along with voluntary benefits that cater to your personal and family needs.
  • Secure your future with our retirement plan and company-provided life insurance policy.
  • Career Growth Opportunities: Experience unparalleled professional development in an empowering culture that values your growth and potential.
  • Great Work Culture: Be part of an empowering and collaborative community.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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