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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Merced, CA

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$14

$25

$35

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Merced, CA is $25.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $28.41 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 Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,093 per year, or $25 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator (Barn Loader Operator) - 1st Shift

American Wood Fibers, Inc

Jamestown, CA • On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

American Wood Fibers rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

American Wood Fibers (AWF) is a manufacturer of both consumer and industrial products that are sold to multiple manufacturers as well as pet, agricultural, and home-heating markets. AWF is comprised of 450+ employees and holds operations at 11 locations, generating over $100M in annual sales revenue. We are currently seeking a candidate for the 1st Shift Heavy Equipment (Barn Loader Operator)  role at our Jamestown, CA plant.

JOB SUMMARY

The Heavy Equipment ( Barn Loader Operator) is responsible for working in a safe, efficient manner to maximize the shipping and receiving of finished goods and materials.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • SHIPPING/RECEIVING
  • Operate the mobile equipment (loader, Skid Steer, or yard truck) in a safe and efficient manner while loading trucks with packaged and bulk material
  • Load AWF and customer trailers
  • Complete shipping and receiving paperwork
  • QUALITY
  • Maintain and verify that all current quality assurance measures are being followed and communicated to supervisors, production employees, truck drivers, office personnel, and customers
  • Assist in the design and implementation of new procedures as needed
  • PRODUCTION
  • Operate machinery that produces and packages products
  • Operate stretch wrapper by setting palletized bales on machine: starting, stopping, and cutting stretch wrap, then removing wrapped pallet to transfer to storage
  • OTHER
  • Attend and participate in a monthly safety meeting
  • Establish personal growth and working relationship with fellow employees to further improvement and teamwork
  • Maintain cleanliness of work station and related areas

QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs.
  • Physical capability to bend, squat, or stoop
  • Valid Drivers License REQUIRED

EXPERIENCE LEVEL

  • Manufacturing: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Industrial Equipment: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Packaging: 1 year (Preferred)

BENEFITS

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Referral program
  • Retirement plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance


COMPENSATION

$20.00 - $24.00 an hour 


Due to the nature of our business, American Wood Fibers requires a tobacco and smoke-free environment. We offer a competitive package to include health, dental, vision and life insurance, plus profit bonus, paid time off and matching 401(k).

For more company information, please visit our web site www.awf.com. AWF is an EEO employer.

What American Wood Fibers employees say

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