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Entry Level Equipment Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Hayfield, MN Full Time Entry Level Share ( POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment ...

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Hayfield, MN Full Time Entry Level Share ( POSITION SUMMARY The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

Heavy Equipment Operator The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such ... Assists in training entry-level employees to perform maintenance and repair duties as required or ...

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Entry Level Equipment Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level equipment operator in Minnesota is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level equipment operator?

Entry Level Equipment Operators are individuals who operate heavy machinery and equipment, such as forklifts, bulldozers, or excavators, typically under supervision and with limited prior experience. They are responsible for following safety protocols, assisting with loading and unloading materials, and performing basic maintenance checks on equipment. These operators often work in industries like construction, manufacturing, or logistics, and receive on-the-job training to develop their skills. Entry level positions are ideal for those looking to start a career in equipment operation without extensive previous experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level equipment operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Equipment Operator, you need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to follow safety regulations. Familiarity with operating heavy machinery such as forklifts, loaders, or excavators, and sometimes possession of relevant certifications like OSHA or forklift operation, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and reliability help individuals excel in this position. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and effective operation of equipment, minimizing workplace accidents and maintaining productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level equipment operators and how can they be overcome?

Entry level equipment operators often face challenges such as adapting to different types of machinery, learning to follow strict safety protocols, and operating in varying weather and site conditions. To overcome these challenges, it's important to take advantage of on-the-job training, seek guidance from experienced colleagues, and consistently review safety procedures. Establishing good communication with your team and supervisors also helps address any uncertainties quickly and ensures safe, efficient operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectEntry Level Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic equipment operation certificationsOSHA safety training, specialized equipment certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, landscaping, small-scale projectsConstruction, mining, large-scale infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, landscaping firms, public worksConstruction firms, mining companies, heavy civil contractors

Entry Level Equipment Operators typically perform basic equipment tasks in construction or landscaping, requiring foundational safety and operation certifications. Heavy Equipment Operators handle more complex machinery and larger projects, often requiring additional certifications and experience. Both roles are essential in construction and infrastructure industries, but Heavy Equipment Operators usually work on larger, more demanding projects.

How to get an entry level equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level equipment operators can improve their chances by obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL) if required, completing basic safety and equipment operation training, and gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work. Demonstrating reliability, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn are also important for entry-level positions.

How to get started as an entry level equipment operator?

To start as an entry-level equipment operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and complete on-the-job training or a vocational program focused on heavy equipment operation. Certification in equipment operation and a valid driver's license can improve job prospects, and gaining experience with tools like bulldozers, excavators, or loaders is beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Equipment Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,579 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN โ€ข On-site

RETURN INC
Manufacturingย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN

Full Time

Entry Level

Share (https://return.applytojob.com/app/share/ygRiZXUVby)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations. The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety of hand and power tools to maintain Return equipment, Return facilities, and job sites.

ABOUT RETURN

We're a leader in Good-for-the-Earth Growing Supplies that cares deeply about our people, planet, and soil. We provide a viable alternative to synthetic growing products that encourage soil regeneration to help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with regenerative, good-for-the-earth growing solutions

YOUR SCHEDULE

Mondayโ€“Friday schedule with 40โ€“50 hours/week. Opportunity for paid overtime and potential weekend shifts.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Hourly pay rate is based on experience, between $18.00 and $24.00 per hour. After 60 days of employment, you are eligible for company health benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as 401k, paid time off, and paid company holidays.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

As an Equipment Operator, you'll play a vital part in our production of high-quality, regenerative fertilizer and compost. Your responsibilities include:

  • Operates equipment of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling and unloading of various equipment, materials and supplies.
  • Operates conveyors, skid steers, mowers, compost turners, tractors, floaters, trucks and construction or power equipment, such as mechanized broom, grapple, dump truck, snow-plow, front-end loader, and other equipment and tools to maintain company property and equipment.
  • Operates welders, gas torches, chop saws, grinders, drills, drill presses, impact wrenches, presses and other small equipment and tools to maintain equipment and operations.
  • Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment.
  • Assists in the installing and maintenance of traffic control devices.
  • Cuts trees and brush, and remove trees and weeds.
  • Controls traffic at work sites by flagging to guide traffic through work areas, as required or assigned.
  • Plows snow. Fixes Driveways and roads.
  • Performs a variety of tasks involving strenuous manual labor.
  • Maintains a clean job site: picks up all tools and equipment and secures job site each day to eliminate potential hazards.
  • Performs materials handling and storage.
  • Assists in training lower-level employees performing the maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned.
  • Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
  • Properly follows company and OSHA safety procedures. Ensures that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed. Brings problems to the attention of the supervisor, manager or HR manager.
  • Perform any other tasks assigned to support and improve the overall team operations.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.
  • Two to four years of experience involving the use of medium and heavy equipment, two of which must have been related to construction, agricultural or fertilizer application.
  • Valid Minnesota Driver's License; CDL License preferred.
  • Proficient with iPhone and or Android email, messaging and navigation applications.

REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.

Two to four years of experience involving the use of medium and heavy equipment, two of which must have been related to construction, agricultural or fertilizer application.

Valid Minnesota Driver's License; CDL License preferred.

Proficient with iPhone and or Android email, messaging and navigation applications.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions including extreme heat and cold. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is frequently exposed to wet or humid conditions and vibration. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, dust, and risks of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. The employee is constantly required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, balancing, crawling, and climbing all day.

The employee must frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

EEO Statement

Return is an equal opportunity employer. We dig in to cultivate a healthy environment, at work and beyond, where all people can bloomโ€”regardless of similarities, differences, or what's growing in their garden. We're rooted in the idea that a diverse workforce, made up of various perspectives, will help us grow as individuals, and as a team. We hope you'll share your unique variety to help breathe new life into our selves, soil, food and planet.