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Entry Level Equipment Operator Jobs in Kent, WA (NOW HIRING)

Omada International

Assembly Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Skilled in the use of precision measurement tools and hand assembly equipment. * Strong attention ... TIER DEFINITIONS Assembly Operator I: Entry-level operator with foundational skills and supervision ...

Redi Bag Inc

Operator I

Tukwila, WA

$19.25 - $23/hr

This entry-level position involves assisting with machinery maintenance, participating in new ... Maintenance Support: * Assist the maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

Soteria Flexibles Corp

Operator I

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

This entry-level position involves assisting with machinery maintenance, participating in new ... Maintenance Support: * Assist the maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

Soteria Flexibles

Operator I

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

This entry-level position involves assisting with machinery maintenance, participating in new ... Maintenance Support: * Assist the maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing equipment.

HP Products

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Renton, WA

$41K - $56K/yr

Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 6:00am-2 ... Operate powered industrial equipment in accordance with OSHA guidelines and Ferguson safe operating ...

SUPPLY.com

Fabrication Associate - Entry Level

Renton, WA · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Ferguson is seeking a Fabrication Associate - Entry Level to join our team! Schedule: M-F 6:00am-2 ... Operate powered industrial equipment in accordance with OSHA guidelines and Ferguson safe operating ...

Pierce County

Corrections Deputy - Entry Level

Tacoma, WA

$39.10 - $50.65/hr

... control operator, court escort, training deputy or classifications specialist. There are also ... Operate office equipment, communications equipment, personal computers and corrections automated ...

Arclin Surfaces LLC

Production Operator E

Tacoma, WA

$23/hr

... wear required PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) * Ability to stand, walk, and climb ... This is an entry-level, full-time position, and reports to the Production Supervisor. The Operator ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEntry Level Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Equipment Operator Jobs in Kent, WA

Entry Level Equipment Operator information

See Kent, WA salary details

$13

$19

$24

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level equipment operator in Kent, WA is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $21.44 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 cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Kent, WA 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 Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,009 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Equipment Engineer - Kiewit Equipment Services 2026

Kiewit Corporation

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Kiewit Corporation rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 140 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction

Job description

Requisition ID: 179193 

Job Level: Entry Level 

Home District/Group: Kiewit Equipment Services 

Department: Equipment 

Market: Transportation 

Employment Type: Full Time 

Position Overview

As an Entry Level Equipment Engineer, you will support  Construction & Mining operations. This position is responsible for the planning, scheduling, budgeting, utilization and reliability of a construction and mining 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.  

District Overview

Kiewit Equipment Services (KES) helps to ensure the profitability of Kiewit projects through the improved equipment utilization and mechanical reliability by delivering world-class equipment and service. 

Location

One of the many things that makes Kiewit's culture unique is that we go where the work is, which opens up your career to abundant opportunities. We relocate our teams based on the work that is available, combined with the development plans, skill sets, and career goals of each team member. This means your Kiewit adventure is custom-designed to meet our shared needs.  Equipment Engineers could be based across the United States.

Responsibilities
  • 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

#LI-CA1

 Other Requirements:
    Regular, reliable attendance
    Work productively and meet deadlines timely
    Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
    Perform 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.
    May work at various different locations and conditions may vary.

Base Compensation: 80,000 - 90,000 
(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

This posting will be active from:  06/01/2026  - 09/01/2026  

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

What Kiewit Corporation employees say

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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884

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