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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harwell & Company

Heavy Equipment Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Job Summary We have an immediate opening for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Candidates should have at least one year of experience operating a variety of heavy equipment ...

3 Forks Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are currently seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing organization. In this position, you will be responsible for operating equipment to help build roads, oil field locations ...

DFW CONCRETE PROS

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Justin, TX · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Civil / Concrete Construction Company: DFW Concrete Pros Position: Heavy ... This is not an entry-level operator position. Civil, demolition, or concrete construction ...

Savvy Staffing Solutions, LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Ayer, MA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Outdoor Work Ayer, MA Now Hiring! Savvy Staffing is seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator for a full-time opportunity in Ayer, MA . If you enjoy working outdoors ...

DFW CONCRETE PROS

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Justin, TX · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Civil / Concrete Construction Company: DFW Concrete Pros Position: Heavy ... This is not an entry-level operator position. Civil, demolition, or concrete construction ...

3 Forks Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are currently seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing organization. In this position, you will be responsible for operating equipment to help build roads, oil field locations ...

Okie Staffing

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coweta, OK · On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

This position involves operating equipment and performing maintenance tasks to ensure safe and efficient city services. Key Responsibilities: * Operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, loaders, and ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA

$27.79/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level heavy equipment operator?

An Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator is a worker who operates machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and other large construction equipment under supervision. They are responsible for assisting with site preparation, moving earth or materials, and following safety protocols on construction or industrial sites. Typically, entry-level operators are new to the field and may have completed vocational training or an apprenticeship, but have limited hands-on experience. They learn on the job and gradually take on more complex tasks as they gain skills.

What does an entry level heavy equipment operator do?

The job of an entry-level heavy equipment operator is to operate and perform maintenance on machinery used in building construction, like excavators, haul trucks, or snowcats. Someone in this role should follow all safety regulations on a construction site. An entry-level heavy equipment operator often works under direct supervision, although they may take on small building projects as they gain experience and demonstrate skills. Qualifications include a high school diploma and on-the-job training, although additional licensure or certification may be required for certain types of machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level heavy equipment operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by on-the-job training or a relevant certification. Familiarity with machinery like excavators, loaders, and safety systems, as well as certifications such as OSHA or NCCER, are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a safety-first mindset are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safe, efficient operation of heavy machinery and the prevention of workplace accidents.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level heavy equipment operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level heavy equipment operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to diverse machinery, maintaining safety standards, and working in varying weather conditions. Adjusting to the physical demands and learning to communicate effectively with team members and supervisors are also common hurdles. To overcome these challenges, new operators should seek hands-on training, ask for feedback from experienced coworkers, and consistently review safety protocols. Building strong communication skills and staying proactive about learning can help ease the transition and foster career growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Technician?

AspectEntry Level Heavy Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, OSHA safety trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification or diploma
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsRepair shops, maintenance facilities, job sites
Job FocusOperating machinery like excavators and bulldozersDiagnosing and repairing heavy equipment

While both roles involve heavy machinery, an Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator primarily operates construction equipment on job sites, requiring safety training and basic certifications. In contrast, a Heavy Equipment Technician focuses on maintaining and repairing this machinery, often working in repair shops or maintenance facilities. The roles differ in skills, responsibilities, and work environments, but both are essential in the heavy equipment industry.

How to get an entry level heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level heavy equipment operators can start by obtaining a basic commercial driver's license (CDL) and completing a training program or apprenticeship to learn equipment operation. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level construction roles can also improve job prospects, along with demonstrating safety awareness and physical fitness. Certifications in equipment operation and a willingness to learn are valuable for entry-level candidates.
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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Harwell & Company

Mobile, AL • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 2 hours ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator Job Summary

We have an immediate opening for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Candidates should have at least one year of experience operating a variety of heavy equipment, including front loaders, mini excavators, and cranes. You will be responsible for inspecting trucks before and after you use them, load and unload cargo, and move large pallets of inventory from one area to another. When necessary, you will also perform routine maintenance on the machines or recommend they be sent out for repairs. All equipment operators must follow company and governmental safety guidelines at all times.

Heavy Equipment Operator Duties and Responsibilities

  • Inspect large equipment before and after use to ensure they are working properly
  • Load and unload cargo and move them to the appropriate storage area
  • Follow all safety procedures while operating equipment
  • Perform regular maintenance and minor repairs when necessary
  • Report needs for larger repairs to the appropriate parties

Heavy Equipment Operator Requirements and Qualifications

  • 1+ years of experience working with heavy equipment
  • Knowledge of proper operation of heavy equipment as well as safety standards
  • Strong work ethic and physical ability to lift 50+ pounds