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Entry Level Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Taylor DM Brands , a Taylor Corporation company, is looking for an Equipment Operator to join our ... is intended for an entry-level hire to build skills through training and experience.) The ...

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 ...

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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Equipment Operator

Joshua, TX · On-site

$14 - $30/hr

If you have experience operating heavy equipment, we are looking for you! We have locations in ... We do offer entry level positions with on the job training to allow you to work your way up to a ...

Equipment Operator

Pineville, LA

$17.50 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator will perform required operator maintenance on fork trucks. Ability to read ... Referral Level: Entry Level Not eligible for Enhanced Referral Not eligible for External Referral ...

Equipment Operator

Pineville, LA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator will perform required operator maintenance on fork trucks. Ability to read ... Referral Level: Entry Level Not eligible for Enhanced Referral Not eligible for External Referral ...

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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 28, 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.

How much do beginner operators make?

Entry-level equipment operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location, industry, and the type of equipment operated. Starting salaries may increase with certifications, experience, and the ability to operate specialized machinery such as bulldozers or cranes.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level equipment operator jobs often do not require prior experience, but candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Having knowledge of equipment operation, safety procedures, and physical fitness can improve chances of employment even without previous experience.

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.

How to get started as an equipment operator?

To start as an entry-level equipment operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete on-the-job training or a vocational program, and acquire relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining experience with heavy machinery and understanding equipment operation, safety protocols, and maintenance are essential for entry into the field.

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

Entry-level equipment operators typically do not earn $100,000 annually; higher earnings are usually achieved with experience, specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Most heavy equipment operators earn between $40,000 and $70,000 per year, with top earners in certain regions or with advanced skills reaching higher salaries.

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:

Palletizer Operator- 2nd Shift

Crownholdings

Dubuque, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

About Crown

Crown Holdings, Inc. through it's subsidiaries, is a world leader in the metal packaging production process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging solutions and products. Our clients are some of the largest and most respected companies in the world.


Crown is dedicated to building a team of highly talented, dedicated, and driven individuals. It's an exciting time to join our business because Crown offers you the opportunity to grow and develop your skills in an expanding industry.

Crown was founded with the goal of valuing and promoting sustainability and this vision continues to be essential to our long-term future.

Job Description:

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 ends at the Dubuque, Iowa manufacturing location.

Duties And Responsibilities:

Reporting directly to manufacturing floor supervision and management, the Palletizer, Bagger and Entry Level Equipment Operator responsibilities would include, but not be limited to, the following:

  • Operate the automatic can palletizer including inserting separator sheets between layers of cans, and placing top frames on top of completed pallets
  • Sorting and inspecting cans, printing pallet tickets, and performing quality checks
  • Keeping the work area clean and organized, performing minor tasks as directed by the line maintainer here qualified
  • Supporting the line maintainer in the operation of the production lines where qualified
  • Assisting in the preparing, loading and feeding of metal coils when requested
  • Removing jams as they occur in the production lines
  • Visual inspection of finished cans and ends for obvious defects and recording this information
  • Assisting in removing metal dies and assisting in lubrication when needed
  • Replacing and re-aligning cans as necessary
  • Operating automatic bulk packing machinery to load/unload various size can onto pallets
  • Removing old ID tags from packing material and applying correct ID tags
  • Maintaining numeric sequence of pallets of cans and ends
  • Observe and practices company safety rules and SOP's at all times
  • Maintain the flow of finished product as required
  • Communicate all pertinent information between departments, peers and between shifts on changes to equipment, production schedules, production problems or any other related information.
  • Works with employees on identifying, discussing solutions and implementing "fixes" on machinery and equipment problems
  • Performs other job-related duties as required or assigned

Qualifications:

In addition to the specific responsibilities listed above, the ideal candidate will possess the following:

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School Education/GED or equivalent preferred
  • One or more years' experience in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Requirements:

  • Vocation or technical certification would be a plus
  • High-speed packaging industry experience

Competencies:

  • Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team
  • Must be able to look at new solutions and "think creatively and strategically" to solve problems
  • Excellent time management and project management skills as well as the ability to multi-task
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Provenmath and computer skills and working knowledge of variousMicrosoft programs (Excel, Word, Access, etc.)

Physical Requirements:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, use hands, reach with hands and arms, and may be required to balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • The associate may lift and/or move up to 50 pounds on occasion
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus

Working Conditions:

  • The majority of work will be in a plant environment but maybe required to move around to different parts of the manufacturing floor
  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate will be exposed to moving mechanical parts and vehicular trafficin the plant
  • The associate may be exposed to a wide range of temperatures
  • The noise level is frequently loud

*Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

What Crown Offers You
  • Strong engagement and commitment to the safety of our employees

  • The opportunity to build a meaningful career

  • Professional and personal development through training and work experiences

Join us and become part of a team of professionals who are passionate about sustainable packaging!

Working TogetherWorking Together is one of the five pillars that make up our Twentyby30 program. We aim to value and respect each individual and foster an environment of inclusivity.