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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Bothell, WA

Snohomish PUD

Equipment Operator (Pool)

Everett, WA

$63.95/hr

Three (3) years of experience driving heavy-duty vehicles and operating various types of heavy equipment utilized by the construction industry, OR * Completion of a certified Equipment Operator ...

Snohomish PUD

Equipment Operator (Pool)

Everett, WA · On-site

$63.95/hr

Three (3) years of experience driving heavy-duty vehicles and operating various types of heavy equipment utilized by the construction industry, OR * Completion of a certified Equipment Operator ...

Republic Services

Heavy Equipment Technician

Seattle, WA · On-site

$42/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Heavy Equipment Technician performs repairs and maintenance on heavy ... operators to minimize future repairs. * Completes paperwork associated with repairing equipment ...

New

BDZ Developers Inc

Operator

Bothell, WA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Heavy Equipment Operator position is an hourly position that reports to the site Foreman. The basic function of the Operator is to operate all the heavy machinery and equipment ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$15

$26

$37

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Bothell, WA is $26.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $30.10 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Bothell, WA? For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Bothell, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Bothell, WA are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Bothell, WA 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 Bothell, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,145 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator II, Pit Digger SeaTac

Levy

Seattle, WA • On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description


If you've got a passion for heavy equipment, loved tonka toys as a kid, enjoy time outdoors, & get gratification working with a team to build a better environment for the next generation, Levy invites you to play in our sandbox. The Levy Group of Companies is seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to work at our SeaTac Still Mill Services location in Seattle, WA.
The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as it pertains to operating heavy off-road mobile equipment.
Pay: $28 -$38 depending on experience
Shift: 4on/4off 2 Sets of Day/2 sets of Night Shift
Benefits
  • Competitive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Prescription, 401(K) with 3% Employer Contribution, Long- and Short-term Disability
  • Year round, non-weather dependent employment
  • Tuition Reimbursement for qualified skilled trade programs
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Responsibilities
The Heavy Mobile Equipment Operator will:
  • Operate various heavy mobile equipment such as: 988K Front End Loaders, Excavators, 777 Haul Trucks, D8/9 Dozers, Pot Haulers, & Sennebogen Cranes
  • Comply with all safety regulations, policies, and record-keeping
  • Load materials in designated areas
  • Maintain work area to allow safe movement and access
  • Monitor any change in machine performance to identify potential malfunctions & report to the maintenance department
  • Perform daily machine inspection and routine greasing, oiling, and fueling
  • Meet customer service expectations

Skills
The ideal candidate will have:
  • Experience operating end loader, excavator, dozer, and other specialized mobile equipment
  • A team and safety oriented mentality
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Basic Mechanical aptitude.
  • Knowledge of bulk materials
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Willingness to perform other duties as assigned.
  • High school diploma or equivalent

To Apply
Please submit your resume. Military Members are welcome and Veterans are encouraged to apply!
Who is Edw. C. Levy Group of Companies?
We are a unique, 100-year-old family-owned company that transforms our recycled products into construction materials, lightweight aggregates, asphalt, cement, concrete, agricultural products, and more. We provide steel mill services, flame cutting and treatment, road building, logistics, laboratory testing, and a variety of other solutions for our customers.
The Levy Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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