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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Edison, NJ

CH Excavating Inc.

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Monroe Township, NJ · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

We are in search of an experienced heavy equipment operator for our site excavation company in Central NJ. Which includes operating excavators, bulldozers, loaders etc. Our company is looking for ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Edison, NJ salary details

$14

$24

$34

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Edison, NJ is $24.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.88 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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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Edison, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,069 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

MIKULA CONTRACTING INC

Clifton, NJ • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Mikula Contracting, Inc., a 79-year-old family-owned and operated business, is seeking an Experienced Heavy Equipment Operator with a Class A CDL license for an immediate opening. Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with various excavation and demolition services.


General Accountability: Heavy Equipment Operator
Operates an excavator, loader, backhoe, bulldozer, and similar heavy machine equipment.
Performs essential maintenance and minor repairs on excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and/or other heavy power equipment.
Locates underground services before performing heavy equipment work.
Monitors operations to ensure all health and safety standards are met.
Aligns machines regarding stakes, markers, guidelines, and/or hand signals of other workers.
Loads and moves dirt, rocks, materials, and/or other equipment.
Drives and maneuvers equipment to remove topsoil, rocks, vegetation, and/or other materials to distribute and level earth or terrain.
Coordinates machine's actions and/or activities for moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.
Performs other duties as assigned or requested.

General Accountability: Class A CDL Truck Driver
A minimum of 1 year of experience driving tandem dump trucks.
Monitors operations to ensure all health and safety standards are met.
Performs other duties as assigned or requested.
**The Company reserves the right to add or change duties anytime.**
Job Qualifications:
License/Certification: Current Class A Commercial Driver's License
Skills:
Must be able to perform essential operations of trucks and/or construction equipment.
Must possess basic knowledge of machines and tools concerning safety, use, and repair.
Must possess knowledge of applicable health and safety standards concerning heavy equipment operation.
Must possess basic knowledge of the language and terminology used in this occupation.
Must possess excellent verbal communication skills.
Must possess excellent interpersonal skills.

Company Description

Mikula Contracting, Inc., a family-owned and operated business, has been servicing all of New Jersey for 78 Years. We provide commercial and residential customers with various excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking, and soil materials services. We are continually expanding our clientele while enhancing our business every day. Throughout the years, Mikula Contracting has withstood the many challenges the volatile construction industry has faced while continuing to grow.