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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Boca Raton, FL

SA Recycling

Heavy Equipment Operator

Davie, FL

As an Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of heavy equipment to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other ...

SA Recycling

Heavy Equipment Operator

Davie, FL · On-site

As an Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of heavy equipment to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other ...

Brooks Backhoe Service

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Palm Beach, FL

$15/hr

Heavy Equipment Bobcat/Excavator Operator (Servicing Palm Beach & South Martin County) Compensation: Starting at $15.00 (+) hr (increases depending on experience) Full Time & Part Time Positions ...

City of Miramar

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I

Hollywood, FL

$42K - $63K/yr

Skill operating heavy equipment. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form. Ability to adapt to an evolving and continually improving environment. Ability to respond to supervision ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Boca Raton, FL

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Boca Raton, FL salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Boca Raton, FL is $22.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.46 and $25.53 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.
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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Boca Raton, FL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,812 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

SA Recycling

Pompano Beach, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 90 rated recycling and waste

Job description

We are looking for a hard-working, reliable and safety minded individual to join our team as an Equipment Operator.  As an Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of heavy equipment to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Responsibilities of an Equipment Operator         

  • Operate various types of heavy equipment to load and unload scrap metal and debris in preparation for processing or shipping.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting capacities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Identify, grade, and sort inbound scrap and reject unacceptable items.
  • Drain and remove fluids and gases from autos, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc.
  • Direct truck drivers into proper position for loading and unloading scrap metal or other materials.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Equipment Operator

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1-year experience operating a hydraulic crane and wheeled bucket loader; operations in the scrap metal or construction industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Growth opportunities and promotions from within
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE

Physical Requirements:

  • Work Environment: Scrap metal Recycling and shredder yard
  •  Equipment & Tools: Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools
  •  Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate
  •  Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity
  •  Sensory Demands: Hearing, vision, touch, smell and taste
  •  Hand Movements: Repetitive motions, gripping

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

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