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Construction Equipment Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY

Job Summary The Equipment Operator (EO) is responsible for safely operating a variety of machinery, including a frontend loader with bucket, 12k or smaller forklift with rotator, bobcat, and skid ...

Job Summary The Equipment Operator (EO) is responsible for safely operating a variety of machinery, including a frontend loader with bucket, 12k or smaller forklift with rotator, bobcat, and skid ...

Skid Steer Operator / Laborer

Batavia, NY ยท On-site

$1.0K - $1.2K/wk

Experience operating heavy equipment or construction equipment. * Knowledge of grading, excavation, and material handling procedures. * Experience working on construction, industrial, or government ...

Skid Steer Operator / Laborer

Batavia, NY ยท On-site

$1.0K - $1.2K/wk

Experience operating heavy equipment or construction equipment. * Knowledge of grading, excavation, and material handling procedures. * Experience working on construction, industrial, or government ...

Showing results 21-40

Construction Equipment Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$14

$24

$34

How much do construction equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction equipment operator in Rochester, NY is $24.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $27.02 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.

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Construction Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Construction Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Construction Equipment Operator job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,837 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.

Hopewell, NY โ€ข On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Summary
The Heavy Equipment Operator ensures the safe operation of heavy equipment at the Transfer Station for the purpose of transferring and loading materials in an efficient and safe manner; operates one or more types of yellow iron equipment.
The starting pay range for this position is $23-$26 per hour based on experience
Key Responsibilities
  • Opens and closes the facility according to scheduled hours of operation.
  • Oversees the schedule of where and which trucks are to dump and switching out trailers.
  • Ensures public areas of the transfer station clean at all times; follows schedule per Operation Manager for daily, weekly and monthly facility cleaning schedules.
  • Ensures that customers (external and internal) use the transfer station according to all safety rules and regulations.
  • Meets loading schedules to assure driver loads are ready to meet production.
  • Directs incoming trucks and vehicles to appropriate unloading areas in a safe manner.
  • Follows all safety and equipment checks and precautions in the performance of all duties.
  • Sites all mechanical problems that arise during pre-trip inspection or during routine functions to the attention of the shop foreman immediately.
  • Participates in training and other learning opportunities to expand knowledge of the company, products, sales and services and performs any other duties needed to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and/or abide by our core values.

Career Path Definitions & Distinctions:
Apprentice: 0-2 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to operate one type of yellow iron equipment. Possesses a complete knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.
Operator I: 2-4 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate two types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Possesses a strong knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.
Operator II: 4-6 years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to safely operate three types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Possesses an expert level knowledge and understanding of safety protocols and procedures necessary for operating the equipment.
Lead Operator: 6+ years of experience operating heavy equipment. Demonstrates the ability to develop training plans and mentor employees to achieve successful outcomes. Demonstrates the capability to operate all types of yellow iron equipment involved in composting operations. Exhibits an ability to prioritize, delegate, and communicate clearly to the team and managers.
Education, Experience & Qualifications
The successful candidate will be a self-directed person, at least 18 years of age, have a demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and be legally eligible to work in the US. It is required to have a high school diploma or GED and two years of prior experience in heavy equipment operation is preferred. Physical ability to perform duties in various weather conditions.
Proven commitment to work and safety, excellent communication and problem solving skills are required.
Attributes
Positive, team-oriented individual who has a strong work ethic, is committed to safety, customer driven, open to personal and professional training and development, and results-oriented with the ability to see the larger picture while focusing on detailed information.
Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Disability Insurance, Maternity & Parental Leave, Flexible Spending Accounts, Discounted Stock Program, 401K, Employee Awards, Employee Assistance Plan, Wellness Incentive, Tuition Assistance, Career Pathways, and More.