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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Iowa

Alter Trading Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for safely operating and maintaining a variety of equipment -- including material handlers (excavators), stationary shears, and other heavy ...

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

$25 - $30/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

$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

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 ...

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 ...

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Gilmore City, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Martin Marietta is currently looking for a versatile, motivated Heavy Equipment Operator at our Moore Quarry in Gilmore City, Iowa . This position is responsible for safely and ...

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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 16, 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.

How does one get into an entry level heavy equipment operator?

To become an entry-level heavy equipment operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete on-the-job training or a training program, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Experience with operating machinery like bulldozers, excavators, or loaders is valuable, and some employers may require a valid driver's license and physical fitness for the job environment.

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 start out as an entry level heavy equipment operator?

To start as an entry-level heavy equipment operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a training program or apprenticeship, and earn relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining hands-on experience with equipment like bulldozers or excavators and understanding safety protocols are essential for entry into the field.

How to get an entry level heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level heavy equipment operators can start by obtaining a basic OSHA safety certification and gaining familiarity with equipment such as excavators or bulldozers. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so applying to construction companies or staffing agencies that specialize in construction work can help you get started without prior experience.

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.
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 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,334 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Alter Trading Corp

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Alter Trading rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Full-Time | Waterloo

Salary Range: $20.00 - 22.00 per hour

ABOUT THE POSITION:

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for safely operating and maintaining a variety of equipment — including material handlers (excavators), stationary shears, and other heavy machinery — to process and move materials throughout our yard. This includes conducting inspections, routine/minor maintenance, and following all safety and company procedures. We are willing to provide training on specific heavy equipment for candidates with relevant industry experience. If you’re eager to learn, dependable, and a team player, we’d love to hear from you!

RESPONSIBILITIES:

● Perform equipment safety checks according to company checklists

● Inspect fluid levels and back-up alarms for proper operation; top off fluids as needed

● Perform daily lubrication and service activities

● Start and monitor equipment gauges for proper operating conditions

● Load, unload, and feed scrap processing equipment in a safe, efficient manner

● Follow shutdown procedures at the end of each shift

● Complete and maintain required documentation and records

● Follow all safety, environmental, and work regulations; maintain housekeeping standards

● Plan and sequence work to ensure timely completion of assignments

● Perform other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS:

● Three to five years of related experience preferred, but we are willing to train candidates with relevant industry backgrounds (e.g., manufacturing, construction, recycling, or similar fields)

● Previous experience operating equipment such as excavators, forklifts, tractors, or skid steers is strongly preferred

● Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn new manuals, processes, and equipment

● Excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot potential issues

● Great communication skills for collaborating with team members and other departments

● Ability to identify and report equipment or operational issues

● Outstanding attention to detail and commitment to safety

● Resourcefulness and adaptability to learn new tasks and procedures

● Ability to lead a team or train other employees, as needed

● History of reliable and consistent attendance

BENEFITS:

● Medical, dental, and vision insurance

● Company-paid disability insurance

● HSA with company match

● 401(k) with company match

● Paid time off starting in the first year

ABOUT US:

Alter Trading Corporation has been in business for over 125 years, with 67+ scrap metal processing facilities across the Midwest and Southern regions. Our mission is to be the best source of ferrous and non-ferrous metals while providing exceptional customer service. Candidates with experience as Heavy Equipment Operators, Forklift Drivers, Loader Operators, Excavator Operators, or Equipment Operators tend to do well in this role.

Join our Rock River team and build a solid future with a respected industry leader!

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