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Entry Level Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator I

Middletown, DE · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Summary Statement This describes entry-level equipment operator work. This level is involved in learning department rules, regulations, and policies concerning operation of equipment, proper handling ...

Equipment Operator

Auburn, CA · On-site

$30.55 - $38.14/hr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Maintenance Worker This is the entry level class in the Equipment Operator series. This class is distinguished from the journey level by the performance of the more ...

Equipment Operator

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Communication; team orientation; adaptability; detail oriented; time management; problem solving. 5) Qualifications * 618 months civil/site experience operating entry-level equipment or successful ...

Equipment Operator I - Non-Exempt, starting at $37,257.00/yr High school diploma or GED preferred; and entry level experience and/or training involving road maintenance and traffic flagging is ...

The Palletizer, Bagger, Entry Level Equipment Operator roles serve a key function in the operation and on-going maintenance of the high-speed manufacturing equipment that produces both metal cans and ...

High school diploma or GED preferred; and entry level experience and/or training involving road ... Equipment Operator III - Non-Exempt, starting at $45,702.00/yr. High school diploma or GED ...

High school diploma or GED preferred; and entry level experience and/or training involving road ... Equipment Operator II - Non- Exempt, starting at $40,635.00/yr. High school diploma or GED ...

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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 Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level equipment operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Can you make 100k a year as a heavy equipment operator?

Entry-level equipment operators typically do not earn $100,000 annually; higher salaries are usually achieved with several years of experience, specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Advanced operators who operate large or specialized machinery and work overtime or in remote areas can reach or exceed this income level over time.

What are Entry Level Equipment Operators?

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.
More about Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Equipment Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Equipment Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Equipment Operator I

Equipment Operator I

State of Delaware

Middletown, DE • On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Delaware rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated states


Job description

Introduction The mission of Maintenance & Operations is to provide excellence in transportation by keeping the state's road transportation network in a state of good repair through the careful and consistent application of personnel, equipment and financial resources. Click here to learn more about DelDOT Maintenance & Operations Division. Summary Statement This describes entry-level equipment operator work. This level is involved in learning department rules, regulations, and policies concerning operation of equipment, proper handling of materials, and environmental issues as related to the industry. Work is performed under close direction of a technical superior. This position must be available to work overtime as needed, and during storm events and other emergency events on short notice and in some cases no advance notice. Plus Hazard pay. Career Ladder Upon satisfactory completion of department promotional standards and job requirements, employees may be eligible to be promoted to the next level. Essential Functions Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.
  • Drives and controls on/off-road equipment to haul supplies to and from the work site. This may include public highway systems.
  • Manipulates equipment with integrated mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic systems/controls by coding computers and or adjusting levers, gears, valves, switches and related controls.
  • Operates mobile equipment and hand tools to dig, ditch, slope, strip, grade, backfill, mow, and clear and excavate.
  • Loads and unloads rock, debris, earth, trees and materials, such as abrasives, de-icing chemicals/hazardous material using hands, loaders, trucks, hand-truck, forklift, dolly-lift and hoist.
  • Operates hand tools such as jackhammers, mechanical tampers, power saws, air compressors, hydraulic drivers, and similar equipment to make general repairs of roads, grounds, and/or structures.
  • Performs construction/maintenance and repairs in a variety of labor/trades fields such as carpentry, welding, and masonry.
  • Responds to environmental/highway emergency situations to control snow, storm water, hazardous debris, oil spills, etc. on roads, grounds and related areas.
  • Uses traffic control techniques to control high/low speed vehicular traffic movements.
  • Performs preventive maintenance, operational checks, pre, and post walk around inspections, and makes minor repairs/adjustments of assigned equipment; reports damage and /or required maintenance.
  • May operate draw and swing bridges to permit both water and roadway traffic to pass safely.
Job Requirements Job Requirements for Equipment Operator I Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:
  • Knowledge of preventative maintenance on vehicles and equipment which includes lubricating, cleaning, and servicing.
  • Knowledge of operating a variety of equipment used in repair, maintenance, and development of roads, grounds, or structures such as jack hammers, power saws, air compressors, or hydraulic post drivers.
  • Knowledge of operating motorized equipment used for groundskeeping, snow removal, or hauling materials.
  • Possession of a valid Driver's License (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving).
Conditions of Hire As a condition of hire you must possess a valid driver's license (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving). As a condition of hire you must possess a valid CDL Class A or B drivers license (not suspended, revoked or cancelled, or disqualified from driving) OR obtain one during the initial 90-day probationary period. Criminal background check: A satisfactory criminal background check is required as a condition of hire. The recruiting agency may require the applicant to pay for the criminal background check as part of the conditional offer of hire. Pre-employment Drug Testing: Upon a conditional offer, you must undergo pre-employment drug testing as part of the hiring process. This position is a classification organized under an exclusive bargaining representative (labor organization) that has been elected by employees as their representative for collective bargaining and other applicable terms and conditions of employment, in accordance with Title 29, Chapter 59 and Title 19, Chapter 13 and 16. This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement based on its individual terms. All new hires are required to report to the Statewide New Employee Orientation (SNEO) on their first day of employment. Sessions are held at designated locations in Kent or New Castle County. The applicant must agree as a requirement of employment to obtain DelDOT certification on 6 Wheel Dump Truck (101) and Tractor with Mover (102) within the initial 90-day probationary period." DelDOT Medical Exam: Applicants who meet the job requirements for the position, and who are made a conditional offer of employment, shall be required to meet the physical qualifications and examination requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations to hold a commercial driver's license unless they are approved for either an Intra-State CDL Waiver of a Federal Waiver or Exemption. In addition, applicants must not have incurred four or more serious traffic violations during the previous three years as defined by the Federal Motor Carrier Code. The Department of Transportation will obtain driving record information maintained by the Division of Motor Vehicles for the preceding three year period. Benefits To learn more about the comprehensive benefit package please visit our website at https://dhr.delaware.gov/benefits/ Selection Process The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position. It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties. For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content. Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements. Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email. Please keep your contact information current. You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the "My Applications" tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov. Accommodations Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process. Individuals who use TDD may request auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com. If you need assistance with an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or general applicant support, you may call (302) 739-5458 or email jobs@delaware.gov. The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

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