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Entry Level Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Top Job Located in Madison, WI Salary: $20-24/hr BOE Equipment Operator (Entry-Level) - Scrap Metal Recycling Location: Madison, WI - East Side Pay: $20-$24 per hour Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 AM ...

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA

$15.75 - $19/hr

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 ...

Bagger Operator- 2nd Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

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 ...

Equipment Operator

Stewartville, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

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

Bagger/ Operator - 1st Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Bagger/ Operator - 1st Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Entry Level Equipment Operator information

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$12

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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.
Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator

Waste Management

Homer, GA

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 607 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 70 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator I with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance of family time? If this speaks to you, then WM might be the place for your next career move. 

Stable work and benefits that support you and your loved ones, a schedule that respects work life balance with your safety at the heart of everything we do and support for your future with training and development based on your unique career goals. That's what you get as a Heavy Equipment Operator I at WM - and more. 

About us

WM is North America's leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services. We partner with our customers and the communities we serve to manage and reduce waste at each stage from collection to disposal, while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy. 

The pay and benefits you'll get as a Heavy Equipment Operator I:

  • Starting salary of $20 per hour depending on experience

    • Stable hours for your financial stability

      • Access to a stock purchase plan

      • Comprehensive healthcare coverage including dental, vision and prescription coverage.

      • Paid tuition and scholarships for you and your dependents 

      • Company-matched 401(k)

      • Adoption assistance and parent support

These are just a few of our comprehensive benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator I. Whether you are planning on building or expanding your family or looking for the next step in your career - WM is there, helping build the best and total you. 

The hours and location you'll work in as a Heavy Equipment Operator I with WM:

  • Monday - Friday every week
    • 5am to 5pm
    • Saturday 7am-11
    • We're committed to offering you stable hours for the financial security and work life balance you need.
    • The normal setting for this job is our Landfill in Homer, GA.

Those are the key details on pay and schedule - now here's more on what you'll be doing as a Heavy Equipment Operator I at WM. 

Each day you'll work at one of our recycling facilities that service over 20 million customers across the USA. As a Heavy Equipment Operator I you'll be responsible for operating heavy equipment like bulldozers, scrapers & front-end loaders - this role is vital to the work we do, so your work will be recognized and valued for the impact it has on our operation. Our heavy equipment operators take their careers to the next level by working on equipment that requires a high level of skill - and determination.  Our waste disposal sites have strict procedures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our Landfill employees. 

Here's more of what you'll do:

  • Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures. 
    • Conducts routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment; maintains accurate records. 
    • Moves and positions raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment.
    • Follow appropriate standard operating procedures as per guidelines for operating and maintaining vehicle. 
    • Performs other duties as assigned. 

What do you need to be considered for the role of Heavy Equipment Operator I?

  • 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment.
    • Be over 18 years of age.
    • Must be able to drive a manual transmission
    • Legally eligible to work in the United States
    • Ability to perform physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
    • Successfully complete and pass pre-employment drug screen and physical.
    • Preferred Experience: ADT, excavator, dozer, compactor

The kind of people who thrive in our teams:

  • Thrive while working independently.
    • Take accountability for adhering to our safety guidelines.
    • Good communicators who are ready to support other colleagues
    • Able to problem solve while independently.

Work environment and physical demands:

Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. 

  • Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) most of the workday.
    • Required to exert physical effort in handling objects less than 30 pounds occasionally.
    • Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals, etc.) rarely. 
    • Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements most of the workday. 

Normal setting for this job is: shop or field.  

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of post-consumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavy-duty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

If this position is to be performed in Los Angeles County, California, please read carefully the information contained here in LA County Addendum. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States: WM is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada: WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative.  This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons, or service federal property.  Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID, or TSA approved alternative.  

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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