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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Iowa

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

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

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

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

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA

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

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

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

ForceSource

Heavy Equipment Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

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

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gilman, IA

Martin Marietta is currently looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator at the surface operations at our Ferguson Quarry in Gilman, IA. This position is responsible for safely operating equipment within ...

Abode Construction, Inc.

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Marion, IA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Summary/Objective The heavy equipment operator operates a variety of contractor equipment and trucks used in construction, maintenance and repair activities and performs a variety of semiskilled ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gilman, IA · On-site

Martin Marietta is currently looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator at the surface operations at our Ferguson Quarry in Gilman, IA. This position is responsible for safely operating equipment within ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gilman, IA · On-site

Martin Marietta is currently looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator at the surface operations at our Ferguson Quarry in Gilman, IA. This position is responsible for safely operating equipment within ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

This position would be responsible for operating a variety of mining equipment, including scalers ... of heavy building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready-mixed concrete and asphalt.

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ames, IA

This position would be responsible for operating a variety of mining equipment, including scalers, haul trucks, loaders and water trucks. Essential Responsibilities * Responsible for operating a ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ames, IA · On-site

This position would be responsible for operating a variety of mining equipment, including scalers, haul trucks, loaders and water trucks. Essential Responsibilities * Responsible for operating a ...

Signal Energy

Heavy Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA · On-site

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instruction, procedure manuals, and load charts * Able to lift 50+ pound equipment, maneuvering them into their ...

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

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Iowa is $22.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.29 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 Iowa?

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Iowa?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

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

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

Cities in Iowa 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 Iowa 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 $46,334 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

ForceSource

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job OverviewWe are seeking a motivated and experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our dynamic construction team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of construction machinery with precision and safety, ensuring the efficient progress of construction projects. Your expertise in handling heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, cranes, and trucks will be vital to maintaining project timelines and safety standards. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work on diverse projects that challenge your skills and expand your experience in the construction industry.DutiesOperate heavy machinery including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, cranes, backhoes, dozers, water trucks, dump trucks, roll-off trucks, tankers, and farm machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, material handling, grading, lifting, and site preparation.Conduct routine inspections and maintenance on construction equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance.Follow all equipment safety procedures and occupational safety regulations to maintain a safe work environment for yourself and team members.Handle materials efficiently using appropriate material handling equipment while adhering to safety standards.Assist with site setup and cleanup activities by utilizing hand tools and other small equipment as needed.Collaborate closely with project managers and other team members to execute tasks accurately and on schedule.Maintain detailed records of equipment usage, maintenance activities, and safety checks in accordance with company policies.RequirementsProven experience operating construction machinery such as excavators, loaders (front loader trucks), dozers, backhoes, cranes (including crane operation), water trucks, dump trucks, roll-off trucks, tankers, and farm machinery.Construction site experience with a strong understanding of construction processes and safety protocols.Valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with experience in commercial truck driving; ability to operate various types of trucks including front loader trucks and tankers.Mechanical knowledge of construction machinery maintenance and hydraulics systems to perform basic repairs or troubleshooting when necessary.Familiarity with hand tools and small equipment used on construction sites.Knowledge of occupational safety regulations related to heavy equipment operation and construction site safety procedures.Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions while maintaining focus on safety and efficiency.Strong communication skills for coordinating with team members and adhering to project timelines.Join our team if you're passionate about building infrastructure with precision and safety! We value energetic professionals eager to contribute their skills in a fast-paced environment while advancing their careers in heavy equipment operation within the construction industry.