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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Reno, NV

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Reno, NV

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 ...

Teichert

Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial or mining setting. * Proficiency in operating dozers, scrapers, and loaders Specific Job Requirements: * Knowledge of ...

Careers at Teichert

Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial or mining setting. * Proficiency in operating dozers, scrapers, and loaders Specific Job Requirements: * Knowledge of ...

Focus Workforce Management

Be Seen First

Equipment Operators - ALL Shifts

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $24.25/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe operation of all equipment within the ... heavy equipment of various sizes and weights and maneuver equipment in and around tight corners ...

Focus Workforce Management

Be Seen First

Equipment Operators - ALL Shifts

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $24.25/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe operation of all equipment within the ... heavy equipment of various sizes and weights and maneuver equipment in and around tight corners ...

RENO RENTS LP

Mechanic - Heavy Equipment

Sparks, NV · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Description All Star Rents is a family owned Equipment Rental business established in 1962 and is operated by the 3rd generation of family members today. Our 13 locations provide sales and rentals of ...

RENO RENTS LP

Mechanic - Heavy Equipment

Sparks, NV · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Description All Star Rents is a family owned Equipment Rental business established in 1962 and is operated by the 3rd generation of family members today. Our 13 locations provide sales and rentals of ...

Empire CAT

Heavy Equipment Shop Mechanic

Reno, NV · On-site

$25.80 - $48.36/hr

At least five years heavy equipment technician experience, preferably in a dealership environment ... Basic computer and internet knowledge required, as well as knowledge in operating scanning ...

3D Concrete

Operator Equip Heavy (DAYTON)

Sparks, NV · On-site

Grease, check and fill fluids, fuel equipment, clean equipment and assist with more complex ... Be capable of operating equipment in winter weather conditions. Work environment is outdoors and is ...

Walmart

Power Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$25.75 - $29.25/hr

Hourly Wage: $25.75 - $29.25 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly ...

Savard Group

Paving Equipment Operators

Reno, NV · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Paving Equipment Operator $1,400 + WEEKLY Join SAVARD Personnel Group - where your skills are valued! Work outdoors on residential and commercial paving projects, operating paving equipment to place ...

empire

Heavy Equipment Shop Mechanic

Reno, NV

$26 - $34.25/hr

Basic computer and internet knowledge required, as well as knowledge in operating scanning/diagnostic tools. * Knowledge and skills to operate and understand diagnostic equipment including ...

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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 12, 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.

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 Reno, NV? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV? For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV look for? 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 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,185 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Mining

Ledcor Group

Reno, NV

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Run the gear. Move material. Get the job done right.
Ledcor is hiring Equipment Operators for our mining teams in Arizona, Nevada and Idaho. If you can run multiple pieces of equipment and take pride in safe, efficient work, this is your chance to join a solid crew and build a long-term career.
Apply today to join the Ledcor team!

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water trucks, and support/utility equipment
  • Support loading, hauling, and dumping operations to keep production moving
  • Safely build and maintain pioneer and access roads in rough terrain
  • Load trucks efficiently and set up dumps to optimize cycle times
  • Complete pre-trip inspections and daily Field Level Hazard Assessments
  • Maintain equipment and report any maintenance or repair needs
  • Communicate clearly with team members across the site

Qualifications:

  • Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility equipment preferred
  • Experience in mining, heavy civil, or construction environments is an asset
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Valid MSHA Part 48 (surface, metal/non-metal) required
  • Must pass pre-employment drug and alcohol testing

Work Conditions:

  • Rotating shifts, 10-12 hour per day
  • Overtime paid after 40 hours
  • Steady, site-based work with long-term opportunities
  • Daily Living Out Allowance (LOA) if applicable
  • Health and wellness benefits, plus 401(k) matching
  • Outdoor work in all weather conditions

Additional Information

Ledcor Heavy Civil and Mining services reach across the lifespan of a mine, from facility construction, to full-scale contract mining of coal, minerals, or metals, all the way to mine reclamation. Our service offerings are vast-as are the projects we work on.

Ledcor has been recognized as a Top 100 Inspiring Workplace in North America.

Our competitive total rewards package provides compensation and benefits that support your physical, mental and financial well-being. We offer exciting, challenging work with opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.

Employment Equity

At Ledcor we believe diversity, equity, and inclusion should be part of everything we do. We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status or any other identifying characteristic are encouraged to apply.

Our True Blue team consists of individuals from all backgrounds who contribute diverse perspectives and experiences to Ledcor. For more information about Ledcor's Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, please visit our I&D page. Adjustments will be provided in all parts of our hiring process. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance by submitting a request via email.

All applicants must be able to show proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

Ledcor participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Link to: https://www.uscis.gov/e-verify

Apply