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Construction Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Familiar with construction operating procedures and methods of other departments (e.g., Procurement, Operations) * Professional verbal and written communication skills, able to present information to ...

Excavator Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$25.50 - $33.75/hr

Baker Construction is the nation's top specialty concrete contractor. At Baker, you can count on ... The Operator is responsible for lay-outs, fine grading, and completing finishing applications and ...

Excavator Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

Baker Concrete Construction, Inc Location: Arlington, VA, US, 22201 Req ID: 7648 Travel: None ... The Operator is responsible for lay-outs, fine grading, and completing finishing applications and ...

Be Seen First

... safe operating practices and signs of maintenance issues · In-depth understanding of local, state and federal construction regulations · Great problem-solving and decision-making skills · ...

Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$32 - $34/hr

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. Drive ... Experience with construction equipment preferred. Some of the benefits you may be eligible for as ...

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will ... Experience with construction equipment preferred. Why work for us Some of the benefits you may be ...

Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$32 - $34/hr

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will ... Experience with construction equipment preferred. Why work for us Some of the benefits you may be ...

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will ... Experience with construction equipment preferred. Why work for us Some of the benefits you may be ...

Be Seen First

We've operated by the same principals and have been headquartered in Rockville, MD since our ... In the construction industry, it's rare that relationships survive through consecutive projects.

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will ... Experience with construction equipment preferred. Why work for us Some of the benefits you may be ...

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Construction Operator information

See Washington salary details

$16

$28

$39

How much do construction operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for construction operator in Washington is $28.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.23 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid operator?

The highest paid construction operators are typically crane operators, heavy equipment operators, and specialized machinery operators, especially those with extensive experience, certifications, and skills in complex equipment. Salaries can vary based on location, industry demand, and level of expertise, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually. Advanced certifications and operating high-demand equipment often lead to higher compensation.

What is the difference between Construction Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectConstruction OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor projectsConstruction sites, outdoor projects
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure projectsConstruction, industrial, and infrastructure projects

Construction Operators and Equipment Operators often share similar credentials and work environments, primarily working outdoors on construction sites. However, Construction Operators typically operate a broader range of heavy machinery and may be involved in more complex tasks related to construction projects, while Equipment Operators focus on specific equipment operation. Both roles are essential in the construction industry and often overlap in job functions and skills.

What is an operator in construction?

A construction operator is a skilled worker responsible for operating heavy machinery and equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes on construction sites. They must have technical knowledge, often hold certifications, and follow safety protocols to ensure efficient and safe project completion.

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

To thrive as a Construction Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, basic construction principles, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and bulldozers, as well as certifications like OSHA safety training and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), are typically required. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team set exceptional operators apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality construction work on site.

What is the highest paid job in construction?

The highest paid jobs in construction are often project managers, construction executives, or specialized roles like heavy equipment operators with extensive experience. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, and management responsibilities, leading to higher salaries compared to other construction roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Construction Operators on job sites, and how can they be addressed?

Construction Operators often encounter challenges such as working with heavy machinery in tight or uneven spaces, adapting to changing weather conditions, and maintaining safety standards on busy job sites. These challenges can be managed by staying up-to-date with safety protocols, participating in regular equipment training, and maintaining strong communication with supervisors and team members. Proactively addressing equipment maintenance and being flexible with schedules can also help Construction Operators perform efficiently and safely.

What are Construction Operators?

Construction Operators are skilled professionals who operate heavy machinery and equipment at construction sites. Their responsibilities include controlling machines such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and loaders to move earth, lift materials, and assist with building structures. They must follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance on equipment, and work closely with other construction team members. Construction Operators play a crucial role in ensuring projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Construction operators typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive, specialized medical, legal, or technology roles. Some highly experienced or specialized construction managers or project directors may approach this level, especially with significant experience, certifications, and large-scale projects. Most construction roles offer lower base salaries, but earnings can increase with overtime, bonuses, and project size.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Construction Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Construction Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Construction Operator jobs in WA? For Construction Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Construction Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,356 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Construction/Utility Operator

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Connecting People to Possibility
As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What sets us apart is our local agility, resources to scale, and comprehensive solutions for a dynamic energy market.

Whether in the field or providing essential behind the scenes support, Centuri offers professional growth opportunities where you can thrive and make a difference. Join a culture where safety, sustainability, and teamwork come first, with training and benefits that truly care for your well-being.

As an experienced Equipment Operator, after paid training, you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a seasoned Foreman, you will join a crew to get the job done right. We believe in the power of teamwork, and all crew members are expected to assist with general labor as needed.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry-required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership 
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities
What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training: natural gas distribution, utility excavation, safety 
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit
Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership
Our Commitment to Opportunity

This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.  Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.

Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.