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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Clinton, TN · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Clinton, TN · Remote

$25 - $32/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Clinton, TN

$25 - $32/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$22 - $28/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$22

$32

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

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $22.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.72 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 the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

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For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN 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 Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,161 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Vulcan Materials Company

Knoxville, TN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

Build Your Career. Build America's Future. Vulcan Materials Company is the nation's largest producer of construction aggregates and a major producer of aggregates-based construction materials including asphalt and ready-mixed concrete. When you join Vulcan, it's more than starting an exciting career - you get to make a difference for millions of people every day across the country. When you join Vulcan, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued. No matter the role or the location across the country, every member of the Vulcan team lives through the Vulcan Way: doing the right thing, the right way, at the right time. What You'll Do: Promote Safety. In accordance with MSHA and Vulcan standards, take an active role in prioritizing safety throughout the operation for yourself and others at all times. Operate Heavy Equipment. Safely operate off-highway equipment to transport raw materials and/or finished products throughout the facility safely and efficiently. Inspect Equipment. Perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections and accurately complete daily mobile equipment reports and other relevant documentation. Maintain Equipment. Maintain equipment performance by checking vehicle fluid levels, adding the correct fluids as necessary, and assisting in performing other minor maintenance. Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings. Monitor the plant and operations and report any necessary maintenance or adjustments to ensure safety.

Skills You'll Need:

Experience. Previous experience operating heavy construction equipment is preferred.

Knowledge of Best Practices. Knowledge of general principles and practices of operating and servicing heavy construction equipment is preferred.

Flexibility. Must be willing to work overtime and extended hours depending on customer and company demands. Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions and tolerate being exposed to loud noises.

What You'll Like About Us: 
 

Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication.  

Safe. The industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers. 

Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is that our work impacts daily lives - and every employee contributes. Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States.  

Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, Vision programs, plus much more.

Rest and Relaxation. Paid vacation, personal floating days, and paid holidays. 

Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution.

Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as a key part of our business.

Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer. 

Skills You'll Need: Experience. Previous experience operating heavy construction equipment is preferred. Knowledge of Best Practices. Knowledge of general principles and practices of operating and servicing heavy construction equipment is preferred. Flexibility. Must be willing to work overtime and extended hours depending on customer and company demands. Must be able to work outside in all types of weather conditions and tolerate being exposed to loud noises. What You'll Like About Us: Great Company Culture. Our people share a competitive drive for excellence in an environment of trust, teamwork, open-mindedness, and communication. Safe. The industry leader in health and safety standards. We are committed to creating a safe work environment and protecting all employees and customers. Meaningful Work. What sets us apart is that our work impacts daily lives - and every employee contributes. Our aggregates produced are used to build roads, schools, hospitals, airports, and housing throughout the United States. Health Benefits. Medical, Dental, Vision programs, plus much more. Rest and Relaxation. Paid vacation, personal floating days, and paid holidays. Prepare for the Future. 401(k) with company match and contribution. Training and Development. We see our development programs and helping our employees meet their goals as a key part of our business. Vulcan Materials Company is committed to employing a diverse workforce. You will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability. You also have the right to be free from discrimination for medical needs arising from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

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