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Construction Equipment Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job ... processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job ... processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job ... processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job ... processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job ... processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:

Motive Companies

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA

$28 - $35/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job ... processes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Will be using the following equipment:

Team Fishel

Equipment Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Location Santa Ana, CA Market Telecom Construction Who is Team Fishel? Since 1936, we've been the ... Equipment Operators at our Santa Ana, CA (Orange County area) office. The starting wage range for ...

BrightView Landscapes

Equipment Operator

Upland, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers ...

BrightView

Equipment Operator

Upland, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers ...

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All JobsConstruction Equipment Operator JobsConstruction Equipment Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Construction Equipment Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$25

$36

How much do construction equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction equipment operator in Riverside, CA is $25.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $28.61 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 Riverside, CA?

For Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Construction Equipment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Construction Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Construction Equipment Operator job openings:

Construction Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Construction Equipment Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,753 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Construction Equipment Operator

Moalej Builders, Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Overview:

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team as a full-time employee. In this role, you will be responsible for operating heavy equipment such as backhoes, excavators, and other machinery to safely and efficiently install underground utilities, including water, sewer, storm drain and dry utility systems.

As a key member of the team, you will work closely with the Foreman to complete projects on time and to the customers quality specifications, ensuring a safe and productive worksite. If you are a reliable operator with a passion for underground utility work, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities:
  • Safely operate backhoes, excavators, and other heavy equipment to excavate and install underground utilities, water, sewer, storm drain and dry utility systems.
  • Excavate trenches cautiously around existing utilities to avoid damage and ensure precision.
  • Excavate and backfill mainline trench and support pipeline install as needed.
  • Communicate effectively with team members, including Foremen and Supervisors, to maintain efficient and safe operations.
  • Perform manual labor tasks, such as pipe installation, grading, AC paving, and trenching, as directed by the Crew Leader or Foreman.
  • Perform physically demanding construction duties and handle equipment with care.
  • Maintain equipment, ensure proper use, and report any issues to supervisors.
    • Qualifications:
  • 5+ years of experience operating heavy equipment in underground utility construction, including backhoes, excavators, skidsteers, and wheel loaders.
  • Proven ability to operate equipment in both urban environments and rough terrain with precision and safety.
  • Strong knowledge of utility construction, installation and safety practices, especially when working near existing utilities.
  • Experience working around live utilities, pedestrians, and vehicular traffic.
  • Physically fit, with the ability to lift 50 pounds and perform demanding labor tasks.
  • Strong awareness of surroundings and attention to detail for a safe worksite.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with team members and follow instructions.
  • Bilingual skills and Heavy Equipment Operator certifications are a plus.
    • Compensation & Benefits:
  • Competitive salary (based on experience)
  • Training provided for entry and developing roles
  • Mileage reimbursement for roles requiring site visits
  • Phone stipend for applicable field positions
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Sick Pay
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Vacations and Holidays
  • 401(k) with 4% Company Match
    • Why Join Us:

    Join a growing company where your role is essential to daily success. As the backbone of our office operations, you will play a critical role in supporting our team, improving efficiency, and contributing to our continued growth.