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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Wells

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Valders, WI · On-site

The operator is also responsible for the rigging care and daily inspection. (Willing to train ... Conduct daily visual inspection of this equipment to ensure it is in good working condition

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator working as part of quarry operations to produce aggregate and construction materials. Quarry operations include maintaining and operating ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator working as part of quarry operations to produce aggregate and construction materials. Quarry operations include maintaining and operating ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator working as part of quarry operations to produce aggregate and construction materials. Quarry operations include maintaining and operating ...

Walbec Group

Wash Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

The Position: We're looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator working as part of quarry operations to produce aggregate and construction materials. Quarry operations include maintaining and operating ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$13

$23

$32

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Appleton, WI is $23.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $26.25 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 Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Appleton, WI? For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI 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 Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,132 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

The Wells Companies Inc.

Valders, WI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and Daily/Monthly inspections. The operator is also responsible for the rigging care and daily inspection. (Willing to train)

SAFETY IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY. Safety is our highest priority. We believe a safe workplace is built on mutual respect, care, and accountability. Every team member is empowered and expected to follow safety practices, look out for one another, and speak up about potential risks. Together, we create an environment where everyone goes home safely each day.

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM?

At Wells, youre part of a team that takes pride in building something that lasts. Whether youre in operations, a manufacturing facility, or out in the field, your work plays a direct role in creating quality structures that support our communities. We value hard work, reliability, and teamwork because getting the job done right requires teamwork. With a strong focus on safety, collaboration, and ingenuity, we create an environment where you can build your experience, contribute to meaningful work, and make an impact.

WHAT WE OFFER
Wells provides a competitive benefits package designed to support employees health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, company-paid disability and life insurance, wellness incentives, paid holidays, PTO, flexible spending accounts, HSA options, a 401(k) with profit sharing, access to Nice Healthcare, employee assistance resources, pet insurance, and additional voluntary coverage such as critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity plans.

  • Health and family care leave is available to both union and non-union employees.
  • Union employee benefits are provided through separate collective bargaining agreements

WHAT YOULL DO

  • Operate the crane with skill, control, and precision
  • Be knowledgeable in the safe operations of the crane
  • Conduct daily visual inspection of this equipment to ensure it is in good working condition
  • Understand rigging procedures and be knowledgeable in rigging equipment capacities
  • Climbing up and down from this equipment and from form surfaces
  • Be knowledgeable in Assembly and Disassembly of the crane
  • Perform maintenance on the machine and keep the machine in good working order
  • Acts in professional manner that demonstrates the individual has good character and can be trusted by all employees
  • Understand and follow the manufacturers operators manual for the machine he is operating

WHO WERE LOOKING FOR

Were looking for a safety-focused and dependable Crane Operator with strong skills in crane operation and rigging. The ideal candidate communicates effectively, works efficiently, and maintains professionalism on the jobsite. This individual is detail-oriented and committed to a safe, productive work environment.

IDEAL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • NCCCO Certified Operator
  • OSHA 10
  • 2 Years of rigging experience
  • Climb up and down the crane
  • Ability to fix and diagnose mechanical problems
  • Must understand crane Load charts
  • Conduct daily and monthly crane and rigging inspections

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 75 lbs occasionally and frequent bending, climbing, kneeling, twisting, squatting, crawling, and repetitive hand/arm use
  • Capable of standing, walking, and moving throughout the facility for extended shifts of up to 12 hours
  • Comfortable working at heights using ladders, scaffolding, swing stages, and man lifts frequently
  • Ability to work safely in a production or field environment with moderate to high exposure to safety risks and hazards
  • Willingness to work in varying environmental conditions, including wet, hot, humid, and cold weather, and outdoors
  • Ability to wear all required PPE, including but not limited to safety boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, high visibility vest, hard hat, and other PPE as required by the task, department, or work area.

This profile summarizes key duties and expectations but does not list every possible job task. Employees must follow all job-related instructions and duties assigned by supervisors.

Wells is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Wells participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your I-9 Form information to confirm you are authorized to work in the U.S.

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