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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Alaska

SmithSons

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our dynamic construction team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy machinery to ...

ASRC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Stebbins, AK · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating a variety of construction equipment to support civil and infrastructure projects in remote and/or challenging environments. This ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Alaska

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$15

$25

$36

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Alaska is $25.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $28.99 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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What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska?

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,125 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

MasTec Communications Group

Anchorage, AK • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 155 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Overview
At MasTec Communications Group we build for the future. Yours and ours.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!
Responsibilities
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will support all phases of utility construction for various types of telecom projects. You believe in doing the job right. Being the best. And you're up for the challenge.
In addition, you will:
  • Operate light construction equipment, including backhoes, cable plows, trenchers, hydraulic reel trailers, other types of machinery, and ensure maintenance of these as required
  • Troubleshoot problems as they arise in the field
  • Read and understand utility locates and above-ground utility indicators to ensure the safety of the crew and a high level of productivity

Qualifications
About You:
  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work
  • You are looking for long-term projects
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team
  • You have experience operating heavy equipment on a construction site
  • You have a valid driver's license and the ability to obtain a DOT med card for driving purposes (CDL preferred; applicants are subject to an MVR review, and must meet company standards for a safe driving record)

MOS Codes 12N, 12V, 21E, and 21J relate well to this position.
Compensation of $30-$35 per hour.
Hard work pays off. See what you'll get for your effort:
Financial Security
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher

Health and Wellness
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Work/Life Balance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Family and medical leave
  • Paid sick time

Employee Referral Program
Refer someone who delivers excellence just like you and receive a $1,000 incentive for a referral that becomes a permanent hire!
We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let's talk. Build your career with MasTec!
MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers

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