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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Stripping Crew Operator

Green Bay, WI

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating several types of power construction equipment in a safe and efficient manner. This equipment is ...

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating several types of power construction equipment in a safe and efficient manner. This equipment is ...

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating several types of power construction equipment in a safe and efficient manner. This equipment is ...

Stripping Crew Operator

Greenville, WI · On-site

$21.25 - $27/hr

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating several types of power construction equipment in a safe and efficient manner. This equipment is ...

Performs any and all duties of Laborer and Operator I & II. Typical Qualifications Requires ... Knowledge of the operation of vehicles and heavy equipment. Knowledge in the types and uses of ...

Loader Operator I

Appleton, WI · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA) IAA ...

Operator I - DPW

Appleton, WI · On-site

$26 - $27.13/hr

... Operator I & II. Typical Qualifications Requires experience in street maintenance, refuse ... heavy equipment or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the ...

CDL Driver

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$55K - $56K/yr

... LCV, heavy equipment operator, truck spotter, unloader) About SEEK Careers/Staffing You are a person with unique skills, experience and education.When you want to be heard and when you want to be ...

New

Ability to operate other types of heavy equipment a plus (e.g. excavator, front end loader ... Current certification from an accredited crane operator testing organization is a plus * Must have ...

Mechanic Green Bay

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$24.25 - $32/hr

Heavy equipment maintenance careers * ASE certified mechanic jobs * Entry-level diesel mechanic positions * Fleet maintenance technician * CDL mechanic jobs * Preventive maintenance technician

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Field Technician

De Pere, WI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Field Technician

De Pere, WI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Diesel Mechanic

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

US Tech Force is looking for a rockstar Diesel/Heavy Equipment Mechanic to join a De-Pere family-owned and operated utility contractor. Position requires diverse knowledge on engines, transmissions ...

Showing results 41-60

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 7, 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.
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:
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.

Stripping Crew Operator

Walbec Group

Green Bay, WI

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

AboutWalbec Group

Walbecproduces high-quality construction materials and delivers unparalleled professionaldesign,engineeringand construction services atits six companies, including Payne and Dolan, Northeast Asphalt, Zenith Tech, Parisi, Premier Concrete, and Construction Resources Management.Whether building bridges, stabilizing shorelines, rehabilitating structures, or providing site engineering and construction solutions for solar,Walbecis yourbridge toexpertisein construction and engineering.

With safety and ethics at the core of everything we do, our experienced professionals are hard at work on commercial and industrial sites throughout the Midwest.

The Position: We're looking for an Operator in Heavy Civil construction, responsible for operating several types of power construction equipment in a safe and efficient manner. This equipment is specific to, but is not limited to dozers, excavators, rollers, loaders, haul trucks, motor graders and skid steers.

Requirements:

  • Valid Driver's License and satisfactory driving record.
  • GPS Machine Control knowledge preferred
  • A Class A CDL is preferred.
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent is preferred.
  • Must be punctual and dependable.
  • Have the ability to work varied hours including nights, early mornings, and weekends as needed.
  • Be able to tolerate and work in variable weather conditions, and work in dirty and dusty environments.

Member of the appropriate trade union or willingness to become a union member are required. Union membership is not required prior to employment. Our Human Resources Department is able to assist in that process as needed.

Prior experience in road building, earth moving, site grading, landscaping, or sewer/water

The Benefits:

  • Union Benefits
  • Profit sharing
  • RobustWalbectraining and professional development program
  • Ongoing career growth opportunities

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action employer, and it is our practice toprovideequal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants. In addition, it is the policy of the Company tocomply withapplicable federal,stateand local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in each locality in which the Company has employees. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply!