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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Indiana

Cobalt Civil

Heavy Equipment Operator

Winchester, IN · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator ID: 1119 Department: Operations Location: Winchester, IN More about this job > Description HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITES Will conduct themselves in a manner that ...

JENNMAR Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Newburgh, IN · On-site

Terminal Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator - Long Term - FULLTIME JENNMAR Services is hiring Terminal Operator / Equipment Operator positions for a large company located in the Mount Vernon, Indiana ...

City Of Gary

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gary, IN · On-site

$38K/yr

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR Department: General Services Reports to: General Services Superintendent Status: Full Time Salary: $38,000 _____ _____ Drives and handles various pieces of heavy equipment ...

Tycol Excavating

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Tycol Excavating and Property Services is seeking a skilled and reliable Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support ...

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

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$22

$32

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

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Indiana is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Entry level heavy equipment operators typically do not earn $700 a day; such high daily rates are usually associated with specialized or highly experienced roles, such as skilled crane operators or union heavy equipment operators with certifications. These positions often require extensive training, certifications, and experience, and may involve overtime or hazardous work conditions that justify higher pay. Most entry-level roles pay significantly less, but experienced operators in certain industries can reach or exceed this daily rate.

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.

How to start out as a heavy equipment operator?

To start as a heavy equipment operator, gain relevant skills through vocational training or apprenticeships, and obtain necessary certifications such as OSHA safety training. Practical experience with equipment like bulldozers or excavators is valuable, and many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Entry-level positions often require physical fitness and the ability to work in outdoor environments.

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.

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

Entry-level heavy equipment operator jobs often do not require prior experience, but applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete a training program or obtain a certification such as OSHA safety training. Employers may also look for physical fitness, the ability to learn equipment operation, and a willingness to work in various environments. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or training courses can improve job prospects.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level heavy equipment operators can earn around $4,000 a week with experience, proper certifications, and working in high-demand industries like construction or mining. These roles often require operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers or cranes, and may involve overtime or shift work to reach that income level.

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana? For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana 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 Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,940 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cobalt Civil

Winchester, IN • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

My Account
Career Opportunities >> Heavy Equipment Operator
Heavy Equipment Operator
Summary
Title: Heavy Equipment Operator ID: 1119 Department: Operations Location: Winchester, IN
More about this job >
Description
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITES
Will conduct themselves in a manner that is positive and promotes Cobalt Civil.
Works under the direct supervision of lead person.
Become knowledgeable of all policies and procedures to promote Safety, Production and Quality
Will take an active role in the onsite safety planning at tailboard meetings and implementation of the company's safety handbook while preforming task Ability to remain calm, focused and effective under pressure
Will stay on task to the role assigned daily
Will listen and follow directions of FOMs, Lead Person.
Ensures all information requested from direct report is correct and timely Will report all good catches, near misses, injuries, and incidents to direct report for proper reporting process
Assist Lead Person in good housekeeping of the projects and equipment.
Exercise stop work authority if a dangerous situation should arise Pre-trip inspection on any piece of equipment
Make sure spotter policy is followed as well as establish safe trigger distances and minimum approach distance
Guarantee safe operation of piece of equipment
Only operate equipment that has been deemed qualified
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR QUALIFICATIONS:
Class A CDL preferred
Travel Required
Minimum of 2 years' experience with skid loader, excavator, front end loader and/or bulldozer
Ability/willingness to work in field outside of equipment
In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability, or any other protected group status.
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