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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Indiana

CRH

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cayuga, IN · On-site

Job Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating a variety of equipment such as front-end loader, dozers, graders, rollers, excavators, dump trucks or other equipment to lift and ...

Charah Solutions

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sullivan, IN · On-site

Minimum one-year experience operating heavy equipment in a construction or similar environment required * Valid driver's license required * Knowledge of materials, methods, and tools involved in ash ...

State of Indiana

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator: * Operate various types of heavy and specialized equipment to include, but not limited to; Gradall, Backhoes, Dozers, Vactors, Sweepers, SewerJets, Loaders, Skidsteers, Ag ...

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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 Aug 23, 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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,940 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

CRH

Cayuga, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job ID: 527709

Eco Material Technologies, a CRH Company, is a leading producer of sustainable cement alternatives in the U.S. It is the nation’s largest marketer and manager of fly ash, with the industry's only true national footprint of logistics networks and distribution channels. The Company also provides mission-critical utility services, including operations support, waste disposal, and environmental remediation.

Job Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating a variety of equipment such as front-end loader, dozers, graders, rollers, excavators, dump trucks or other equipment to lift and transport bulk materials to and from storage, to landfill site, to feed conveyors, hoppers, or chutes, and to load trucks or railcars. 

Job Responsibilities

  • Perform pre-operation inspections to ensure equipment is in proper working condition and report any defects or malfunctions to maintenance personnel.  
  • Able to operate different types of equipment such as front-end loaders, dozers, graders, rollers, excavators, dump trucks, vacuum or water truck 
  • Execute tasks related to site preparation, excavation, earthmoving, and material handling according to project plans and supervisor instructions. 
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment, including checking fluid levels, lubricating moving parts, and cleaning  
  • Maneuver equipment in confined spaces, around obstacles, and in various weather conditions while maintaining awareness of surroundings and ensuring safety of personnel and property 
  • Load and unload materials using appropriate attachments and techniques to prevent damage or injury 
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and other personnel to coordinate tasks, report progress, and address any issues or concerns that arise during operations 
  • Regular attendance, timeliness and scheduling flexibility 

Job Requirements

  • Proficiency in operating various heavy equipment (bulldozers, excavators, loaders, graders, etc). 
  • Basic knowledge of machinery maintenance practices for inspection, lubrication and minor repairs 
  • Capacity to deal with problems and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions 
  • Works well with others, follows instructions from supervisors and coordinates tasks with coworkers to achieve project goals 
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions 
  • Strong verbal communication skills for conveying instructions, reporting issues, and collaborating with coworkers and supervisors 
  • Demonstrates attention to detail for tasks such as grading, digging, and material handling 
  • Responds promptly to customer needs 
  • Manages time effectively and meets productivity standards 
  • Observes safety and security procedures including using equipment and materials properly and following all safety absolutes 
  • Consistently punctual and reliable  
  • Ability and willingness to work rotating on-call shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime 
  • Ability to adapt to changing job site conditions, equipment requirements, and project priorities 
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and training or certification in relevant skill or trade 
  • At least 1 year of experience in a relevant field 
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

What CRH Offers You

  • Highly competitive base pay
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and disability benefits programs
  • Group retirement savings program
  • Health and wellness programs
  • An inclusive culture that values opportunity for growth, development, and internal promotion

About CRH

CRH has a long and proud heritage. We are a collection of hundreds of family businesses, regional companies and large enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates in a decentralized, diversified structure that allows you to work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large international organization.

If you’re up for a rewarding challenge, we invite you to take the first step and apply today! Once you click apply now, you will be brought to our official employment application. Please complete your online profile and it will be sent to the hiring manager. Our system allows you to view and track your status 24 hours a day. Thank you for your interest!

Ash Grove Cement, a CRH Company, is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

EOE/Vet/Disability

CRH is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, 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.

AI tools may be used in certain stages of the employment lifecycle, such as candidate review; however, all final employment decisions will be made by a person.

CRH logo

About CRH

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CRH has a long and proud heritage as one of North America's largest corporations. We are a proud reflection of the hundreds of family businesses, local and regional companies and mid to large sized enterprises that together form the CRH family. CRH operates with a decentralized, diversified structure, letting you work in a small company environment while having the career opportunities of a large enterprise.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

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