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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Reno, NV

F and P construction

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

We are seeking an experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, ensuring the safe and efficient ...

Placer County California

Equipment Operator

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$31.47 - $39.28/hr

... entry level. This class is distinguished from the Senior Equipment Operator in that the latter ... Perform snow removal with heavy equipment, including graders, push plows, and blowers. * Maintain ...

Nucor

Equipment Operator I

Sparks, NV · On-site

Operate heavy equipment of various sizes including cranes and loaders, etc. * Duties include, but ... Knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles, hazards and safety precautions as well as ...

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Sparks, NV · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility ...

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Lockwood, NV · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility ...

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Reno, NV · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Reno, NV

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Reno, NV salary details

$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Reno, NV is $23.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $26.83 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.
More about Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV are:

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For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV are:

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV 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 Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,185 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV • On-site

F and P construction
See more jobs at F and P constructionexternal

$25 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking an experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, ensuring the safe and efficient execution of construction projects.

 Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain various types of heavy equipment looking for applicants who can run one or more of the following types of heavy equipment:

  • Backhoe
  • Skid Steer
  • Excavator
  • Motor Grader
  • Wheel Scraper
  • Front End Loader
  • Haul Truck
  • Water Pull
  • Dozer

- Perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
- Follow safety protocols and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a safe work environment.
- Transport materials and equipment to designated locations within the construction site.
- Collaborate with the construction team to meet project deadlines and goals.

 Experience
- Proven experience in operating a range of heavy equipment
- Strong mechanical knowledge to troubleshoot equipment issues and perform minor repairs.
- Familiarity with safety regulations and procedures in the construction industry.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team to complete projects efficiently.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $40.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift

Experience:

  • Operator: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

  • Driver's License (Preferred)
  • OSHA 10 

Ability to Commute:

  • Reno, NV 89502 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

  • Reno, NV 89502: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Company Description

F and P Construction is a heavy civil contractor based in Reno Nevada. F and P Construction is family owned and operated. We specialize in industrial construction and have played a significant role in the development of the Tahoe Reno Industrial Park. We have been a part of several high profile projects in Northern Nevada including the mass grading for the Tesla Gigafactory.