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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Colorado

Gunnison County

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Pay Rate Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits. Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49 ...

Gunnison County, CO

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$28.53 - $32.49/hr

Pay Rate Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits. Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49 ...

GUNNISON COUNTY

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Pay Rate Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits. Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49 ...

Summit County, CO

Heavy Equipment Operator

Frisco, CO · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

Road & Bridge Opening Date: 05/20/2026 Closing Date: 8/31/2026 4:59 PM Mountain Description Summit County's Road and Bridge Department is seeking seasonal full time Heavy Equipment Operators. Ability ...

ssc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator in Pueblo, CO * Full-time position * Schedule: 4 on 4 off/rotate days and nights every two weeks * 12 hour shifts - 6 am - 6 pm/ 6 pm-6 am * Pay Range $27.00-$31.00 per hour ...

Staff Experts LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

Staff Experts, LLC is currently seeking to fill Heavy Equipment Operator positions. If you are interested, please email us your resume and call 520-989-9270 to schedule an interview appointment. Job ...

ssc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pueblo, CO

$24 - $31/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator in Pueblo, CO * Full-time position * Schedule: 4 on 4 off/rotate days and nights every two weeks * 12 hour shifts - 6 am - 6 pm/ 6 pm-6 am * Pay Range $24.00-$31.00 per hour ...

Staff Experts

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

Staff Experts, LLC is currently seeking to fill Heavy Equipment Operator positions. If you are interested, please email us your resume and call 520-989-9270 to schedule an interview appointment. Job ...

Gould Construction

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team, specializing in excavation and utilities projects. The ideal candidate will have experience operating various types of heavy ...

Maximum Services Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

$28 - $45/hr

If you have experience operating heavy equipment and are committed to safety, efficiency, and quality work, we'd love to hear from you. Key Responsibilities: * Operate heavy equipment safely and ...

BELFOR Holdings

Heavy Equipment Operator

Arvada, CO

Under general supervision, the Equipment Operator must be proficient in heavy equipment operation relating to earthmoving activities, including but not limited to, support of remediation activities ...

BELFOR Holdings

Heavy Equipment Operator

Arvada, CO · On-site

Under general supervision, the Equipment Operator must be proficient in heavy equipment operation relating to earthmoving activities, including but not limited to, support of remediation activities ...

Savage

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator in Pueblo, CO * Full-time position * Schedule: 4 on 4 off/rotate days and nights every two weeks * 12 hour shifts - 6 am - 6 pm/ 6 pm-6 am * Pay Range $24.00-$31.00 per hour ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$24

$35

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Colorado is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $28.32 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 Colorado?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Colorado are:

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For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Cities in Colorado 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 Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,871 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison County

Gunnison, CO • On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description:

Who We Are

Gunnison County cherishes its sense of community and place. The County strives to preserve and promote the well-being of the County’s citizens, natural environment, and rural character. The County will deliver services and set standards that reflect its values and preserve the region’s unique quality of life for present and future generations to enjoy. Gunnison County is governed by an elected three member Board of County Commissioners serving four-year overlapping terms.


Perks of the Gunnison Valley

"The Gunnison Valley is famous for both summer and winter outdoor recreation. In summer, explore the two million acres of public lands by hiking and mountain biking. In winter, alpine skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort is unmatched. There are dozens of miles of scenic cross-country ski trails, too. You’ll find great restaurants, shopping, arts and events in the valley’s unique mountain towns" For more information on what the valley offers, visit the Gunnison & Crested Butte website here.


Benefits

• Housing is held for Gunnison County Employees and may be available for you to rent

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

• Vacation Leave: based on years of service starting at 8 hours/month

• Sick Leave: 8 hours for each month of service

• Dependent Care FSA

• FSA and HSA

• Employer Paid Basic Life Insurance 1x Annual Salary

• Employer Paid Norton LifeLock Membership

• Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance, including spouse and children

• Employee Assistance Program

• Mandatory 401(a) 3% Contribution to CRA - Empower Retirement.

• 401(a) 3% Employer Contribution match

• Voluntary 457(b) Pre-tax or After-tax Contribution to CRA - Empower Retirement.

• 457(b) Up to a 3% Employer Contribution match

• Discounted Pet Insurance, and Gym Memberships


Job Summary

The Gunnison County Public Works Department is now accepting applications for a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator I. The opening is a 40 hour per week position with full benefits. This position operates a wide variety of light, medium, and limited heavy equipment used in the maintenance and construction of County roads. Also performs manual tasks associated with equipment operations and road maintenance and construction. Performs operator required maintenance on all equipment used.


Pay Rate


Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits.


Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49, depending on experience, plus full benefits.


*The County pays monthly on the last week day of the month.*


Heavy Equipment Operator I: view the full job description here.


Heavy Equipment Operator II: view the full job description here.


Hiring Manager

Gunnison County Public Works

Phone: (970) 641-0044


Anticipated Job Posting Close Date

Open until filled.

Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license.
  • Must complete ICS 100 and ICS 700 within the first year of employment.
  • Valid Class B CDL with tanker endorsement preferred.
  • Current flagging certification.
  • Willingness to participate in and complete certification for MSHA Part 46.
  • Willingness to take and successfully complete a First Aid class, CPR class, and other specialized or safety training that may be offered by the Public Works Department or other training facility.
  • Willingness to take additional training such as Road Scholar classes, etc. to improve job skills.

Qualifications

Education and experience:


Graduation from high school education or GED equivalent, and Two (2) years of experience relating to construction, maintenance, or repair, or Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Apply