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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oregon

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Summary As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be essential in ensuring the efficient operation of various machinery on construction sites. Reporting to the site supervisor, your core responsibility ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Summary As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be essential in ensuring the efficient operation of various machinery on construction sites. Reporting to the site supervisor, your core responsibility ...

Slayden

Heavy Equipment Operator

Medford, OR

Slayden Constructors Inc. (SCI) , a wholly owned subsidiary of MWH Constructors, Inc. (MWH) is currently seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator (Track Excavator) to support a critical ...

Slayden

Heavy Equipment Operator

Medford, OR

Slayden Constructors Inc. (SCI) , a wholly owned subsidiary of MWH Constructors, Inc. (MWH) is currently seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator (Track Excavator) to support a critical ...

Slayden

Heavy Equipment Operator

Central Point, OR

Slayden Constructors Inc. (SCI) , a wholly owned subsidiary of MWH Constructors, Inc. (MWH) is currently seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator (Track Excavator) to support a critical ...

Kerr Contractors

Heavy Equipment Operator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Demonstrated knowledge and competency in operating various types of heavy equipment * Extensive earthwork and grading experience utilizing machinery for tasks such as: Mass earthwork, Loading of ...

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

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$25

$35

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 Oregon is $25.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $28.46 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Oregon 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 Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,155 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pacific Recycling Inc

Klamath Falls, OR

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description

If you are an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator looking for an exciting new challenge, then we have the perfect opportunity for you! We are looking for a motivated and reliable individual to join our team and help us operate our heavy equipment safely and efficiently in order to ensure the success of our projects. In this role, you will be responsible for inspecting and operating various types of heavy equipment. The ideal candidate for this position will have a valid driver's license, previous experience operating heavy equipment, and excellent communication skills. If this sounds like the perfect job for you, please apply today!


Job Responsibilities:

Operate heavy machinery such as material handlers and forklifts

Inspect heavy equipment for mechanical issues and perform preventive maintenance as needed

Load and unload materials from trucks

Ensure proper operation of all safety equipment

Follow all safety regulations and procedures

Operate controls, levers, and pedals to move equipment

Move and transport materials using heavy equipment


Requirements:

Must be at least 18 years of age

Must have a valid driver's license

Must have experience operating heavy equipment

Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs

Must be able to work in all types of weather conditions

Must be able to work well with a team and follow directions

Must have good communication skills

Must have the ability to troubleshoot basic mechanical problems

Must have a strong understanding of safety procedures

Must be able to read and interpret blueprints and schematics


What we offer:

Competitive pay

PTO starts at 2 weeks per year and increases with years of service

8 paid holidays

Company-sponsored medical, vision, and dental insurance

Annual safety boot reimbursement

401k


If you are a highly motivated individual with a passion for heavy equipment operation, we encourage you to apply today.

Apply