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Engineering Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$33.36 - $38.92/hr

Engineering Equipment Operator/ PD137070 The full performance level of this position is WG - 08. Relocation Expenses : Not Authorized Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Financial ...

Evidence of this potential can be shown through work, training, or education that establishes proficiency in operating this type of equipment. EXPERIENCE: A specific length of training and experience ...

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Engineering Equipment Operator information

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$19

$26

$32

How much do engineering equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for engineering equipment operator in the United States is $26.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engineering equipment operator?

Engineering Equipment Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery used in construction, engineering, and infrastructure projects. They handle equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, graders, and loaders to move earth, build roads, and perform other tasks essential to building and maintaining structures. These operators must understand how to safely maneuver complex machinery, perform routine maintenance, and adhere to safety protocols on job sites. Their work is crucial for the timely and efficient completion of engineering projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering equipment operator?

To thrive as an Engineering Equipment Operator, you need hands-on experience with heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and GPS guidance systems, as well as OSHA safety certifications, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations. These competencies are vital for minimizing risks, maintaining productivity, and ensuring projects are completed to specification and on schedule.

What are some common challenges faced by engineering equipment operators in the field?

Engineering Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven job sites, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols. They may also need to quickly adapt to different types of heavy machinery and keep up with routine maintenance to prevent equipment breakdowns. Effective communication with site supervisors and other crew members is essential to coordinate tasks and ensure project timelines are met. Staying alert and proactive helps operators maintain productivity and safety throughout their shifts.

What is the difference between Engineering Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectEngineering Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires CDL or specialized equipment certificationsOften requires CDL and specific equipment training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, roads, bridges, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, mining, quarrying, earthmoving
Industry UsagePublic works, civil engineering projectsConstruction, mining, agriculture

Engineering Equipment Operators and Heavy Equipment Operators often share certifications and work environments, but Engineering Equipment Operators tend to focus more on infrastructure projects, while Heavy Equipment Operators work across broader construction and mining sites. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but their specific job sites and project types differ slightly.

More about Engineering Equipment Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Engineering Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Engineering Equipment Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Engineering Equipment Operator jobs?

The top employers for Engineering Equipment Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Engineering Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Engineering Equipment Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Engineering Equipment Operator jobs?

For Engineering Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Engineering Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,175 per year, or $26 per hour.

ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

US Department of the Army

Eastover, SC • On-site

$27.67/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This is a National Guard Title 32 Excepted position for a ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, Position Description Number D0131000, and is part of the SC SCARNG TRNG SITE CMD, South Carolina Army National Guard.Qualifications:THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION OPEN TO THE FOLLOWING AREA OF CONSIDERATION (AOC):
Area of Consideration:
This position is open to Areas 1 and 2 Only.
Area 1: Current employees of the South Carolina Army National Guard (Tenure 1 and 2)
Area 2: Current members of the South Carolina Army National Guard
Area 3: Any individual eligible for membership in the South Carolina Army National Guard

GENERAL EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Experience or training which demonstrates the ability to follow instructions and safely operate the type of equipment required to accomplish the duties of the position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Experience or training operating heavy engineer equipment and performing operator maintenance on equipment such as bulldozers, angle dozers, front-end loaders, and other similar type equipment. Experience or training in operating one or more types of heavy engineer equipment in close proximities and on various types of terrain. Experience assisting lower graded operators in complex operation or maintenance of equipment.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT & NOTES:
1. Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance of the position.
2. This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. An individual convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence may not perform the duties of this position.
3. Ability to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers, contributing to a cooperative working environment and successful accomplishment of the mission.
*4. Irregular and/or overtime (compensatory) hours may be required to support operational requirements or contingencies or may be required to work hours outside of the normal duty day.
5. The duties and responsibilities of your job may significantly impact the environment. You are responsible to maintain awareness of your environmental responsibilities as dictated by legal and regulatory requirements, your organization, and its changing mission.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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