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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

State of Wisconsin

Heavy Equipment Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

$26.50/hr

Introduction Are you a skilled heavy equipment or farm equipment operator looking for a change? If so, we have an opportunity at Truax Field as a Heavy Equipment Operator. The State of Wisconsin ...

Alter Trading Corp

Heavy Equipment Operator

Madison, WI · On-site

Start equipment and check gauges for proper operating status. * Making lifts to assist. * Operate Heavy Equipment to load/ unload trucks and rail cars, and feed scrap processing equipment, according ...

Didion Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cambria, WI

$25 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Powering Precision in Food Production Cambria, WI | Night Shift: 6am-6pm Full-Time Opportunity Compensation: $25-$30 per hour - based on experience Are you someone who ...

Didion, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cambria, WI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Powering Precision in Food Production Cambria, WI | Night Shift: 6am6pm Full-Time Opportunity Compensation: $25-$30 per hour - based on experience Are you someone who thrives ...

Didion, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cambria, WI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Powering Precision in Food Production Cambria, WI | Night Shift: 6am6pm Full-Time Opportunity Compensation: $25-$30 per hour - based on experience Are you someone who thrives ...

Didion, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cambria, WI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Powering Precision in Food Production Cambria, WI | Night Shift: 6am 6pm Full-Time Opportunity Compensation: $25-$30 per hour - based on experience Are you someone who ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

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 Wisconsin is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $27.16 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.
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Cities in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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 $49,791 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rock Solid Stabilization & Reclamation, Inc.

Genoa, WI • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description Rock Solid Stabilization & Reclamation, Inc. is accepting applications for qualified, motivated, forward-thinking individuals looking to become part of a thriving and growing team of highly skilled professionals. We are an innovative company, always looking for new methods and technologies to grow our business. We need individuals who are interested in expanding their skills and knowledge base, and who can adapt to a job that is always growing and changing. The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and highquality operation of specialized heavy equipment used in soil stabilization, reclamation, and heavy civil construction projects. This role requires proficiency in operating one or more of the following machines: smooth drum roller, water truck, padfoot compactor, motorgrader, spreader, and reclaimer (soil stabilizer). Operators are expected to consistently perform work in alignment with the company's core values of Safety First, Quality Always, and Production with Discipline, while maintaining equipment, communicating effectively with field leadership, and contributing to a professional, teamfocused jobsite environment The Heavy Equipment Operator position is physically demanding and requires frequent climbing in and out of vehicles and heavy equipment; operating tools and controls; and lifting and moving heavy objects, tools, and materials. Operators are required to wear personal protective equipment and keep themselves in proper mental and physical condition to operate safely at all times. Operators can expect to be working outside in variable weather conditions nationwide. Responsibilities $4a Qualifications $4b

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