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Entry Level Equipment Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Cajun Industries, LLC

Equipment Engineer

Prairieville, LA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

More information about this job Position Overview As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

Cajun Industries

Equipment Engineer

Prairieville, LA · On-site

More information about this job Position Overview As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

Cajun Industries

Equipment Engineer

Prairieville, LA · On-site

Position Overview As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will support Construction operations ... normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and ...

Cajun Industries

Equipment Engineer

Prairieville, LA · On-site

More information about this job Position Overview As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will ... normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and ...

Carline Companies

Deckhand-Entry Level

Geismar, LA · On-site

We're seeking entry level deckhands to join our team! We are an inland marine company that is ... vessels - Operating and maintaining vessel equipment - Conducting routine maintenance and ...

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Entry Level Equipment Operator information

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level equipment operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.22 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 Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Entry Level Equipment Operator job openings:

Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Equipment Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,882 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Equipment Engineer

Prairieville, LA • On-site

Cajun Industries, LLC
Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Cajun Industries, LLCexternal

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Cajun Industries rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

More information about this job Position Overview

As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will support Construction operations. This position is responsible for the planning, scheduling, budgeting, utilization and reliability of a construction equipment fleet. The position will deal with day to day as well as long term issues related to an equipment fleet. The position’s main focus will be to improve equipment reliability as well as implement, monitor, audit, and manage preventative maintenance programs.

  • Understand and comply with all federal, state, and company health, safety, and environmental requirements
  • Material handling and procurement
  • Create and maintain tool/filter lists and documentation
  • Inspections of equipment and parts
  • Logistics management and communication
  • Long/short range equipment planning, scheduling, and budgeting
  • Planning and paperwork processing to prepare for critical lifts
  • Use reliability and failure analysis data to increase equipment availability and reliability
  • Establish and maintain communications between all levels of supervision and management
  • Support of craft maintenance technicians – ordering parts, manage inventory, schedule crews, and manage quality and safety
  • Specialty projects as needed
Qualifications
  • Has obtained an undergraduate AS/ BS degree in Diesel/Automotive Technology, Heavy Equipment Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Construction Management
  • 1+ year of experience with equipment is preferred
  • 1+ year of experience with equipment planning, scheduling, and budgeting is preferred
  • Strong work ethic – Willing to do what it takes to get the job done
  • Strong organizational, time management and communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to focus on multiple projects at once while prioritizing tasks
  • Willingness to travel and relocate as required
  • Willingness to work in both office and field environments
  • Knowledge of CAD modeling programs is preferred
  • Ability to freely access all points of a construction site or equipment yard in wide-ranging climates and environment

Other Requirements:Regular, reliable attendanceWork productively and meet deadlines timelyCommunicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environmentPerform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.

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