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Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to support our Remediation Construction program. Duties for this full-time position will include operation of a variety of heavy equipment and ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to support our Remediation Construction program. Duties for this full-time position will include operation of a variety of heavy equipment and ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rochester, NY ยท On-site

$30 - $40/hr

We are currently seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to support our Remediation Construction program. Duties for this full-time position will include operation of a variety of heavy equipment and ...

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Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do demolition heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for demolition heavy equipment operator in Rochester, NY is $23.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a demolition heavy equipment operator do?

A Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and wrecking balls to safely tear down buildings and other structures. Their job involves following safety protocols, reading blueprints or demolition plans, and collaborating with other crew members to ensure efficient and controlled demolition. They also perform routine maintenance on equipment and help clear debris from the site. This role requires skill, precision, and attention to safety to prevent accidents and minimize environmental impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a demolition heavy equipment operator?

To excel as a Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator, you need expertise in operating machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and wrecking balls, along with a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant safety training or certifications. Familiarity with equipment-specific controls, OSHA safety standards, and sometimes a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are vital soft skills, especially for coordinating with crews in hazardous environments. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant demolition work, minimizing risk and maximizing productivity.

What are the main challenges demolition heavy equipment operators face on the job site?

Demolition Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges related to safety, precision, and working in dynamic environments. They must carefully coordinate with other team members to ensure structures are dismantled safely while protecting nearby buildings and utilities. The work can be physically demanding and typically involves adapting to changing site conditions and unexpected obstacles. Operators also need to stay vigilant about equipment maintenance and adhere strictly to safety protocols to minimize risks.

What is the difference between Demolition Heavy Equipment Operator vs Construction Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectDemolition Heavy Equipment OperatorConstruction Heavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentDemolition sites, urban or industrial areasConstruction sites, infrastructure projects
Job FocusDemolishing structures, debris removalBuilding, grading, and infrastructure development

Demolition Heavy Equipment Operators primarily work on tearing down structures and clearing debris, often in urban or industrial settings. Construction Heavy Equipment Operators focus on building new structures and infrastructure. While both roles require similar certifications and operate heavy machinery, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

How to be a demolition heavy equipment operator?

To become a demolition heavy equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate heavy machinery such as excavators and bulldozers. Certification in equipment operation and safety, such as OSHA training, is often required, and physical fitness and attention to safety protocols are essential for working in demolition environments.

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

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

Infographic showing various Demolition Heavy 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 $48,672 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Hopewell, NY โ€ข On-site

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.
Environmental Consulting Servicesย โ€ขย 1 - 5K employees

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 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.