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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Reno, NV

empire

Heavy Equipment Shop Mechanic

Reno, NV · On-site

$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 ...

Tesla

Excavator Operator, Commercial Self Perform

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Equipment Operators are responsible for manipulating heavy equipment. Usual duties for this role include performing maintenance checks, implementing safety measures, handling inventories, and ...

Vail Resorts

Experienced Snow Cat Operator

Truckee, CA · On-site

$22.26 - $27.83/hr

  • Retirement

... operating heavy equipment to ensure the best possible snow surface for thrill seekers. Job ... Understand the use, operation, and maintenance of heavy equipment used for snow/slope grooming

Foot Locker

Equipment Operator Seasonal

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23/hr

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

Foot Locker

Equipment Operator Seasonal

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23/hr

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

Jefferson County

Equipment Operator I/CDL Driver

Carson City, NV

$29.47 - $35.36/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

See more details on our Employment Benefits website Equipment Operator I/CDL Driver is the entry level classification in the Equipment Operator series. The Equipment Operator I/CDL Driver performs ...

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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.

Heavy Equipment Shop Mechanic

empire

Reno, NV • On-site

$26 - $34.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

Troubleshoot, repair, recondition, and service Caterpillar and other Empire allied machines, systems, and power train components in a shop environment. Troubleshoot; diagnose malfunctions and failures of machines electrical, hydraulic, and power train components. Must be able to identify and evaluate root cause failures through the use of electronic tools, schematics and other trouble shooting methods. Be able to demonstrate proper communication methods in order to effectively explain equipment conditions, machine status and recommendations, to clients, associates and management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment malfunctions and failures.
  • Maintain good client relations and support for corporate marketing objectives.
  • Repair, recondition, and maintain equipment and components.
  • Prepare service reports.
  • Plan and control cost of repair jobs.
  • Maintain company equipment – keep in good clean orderly condition.
  • Work safely at all times. Adhere to all applicable safety policies. Comply with all company policies, procedures, and standards.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Own and maintain required personal tools.
  • Learn and use Empire, Caterpillar and allied product procedures and systems.
  • Maintain current MSHA card if work area requires.
  • Provide on-the-job training to technicians and helpers as assigned.
  • Make warranty recommendations.
  • Communicate with proper individuals to clarify instructions or discuss scope or progress of job.
  • Work overtime as needed.
  • Travel to remote locations as needed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
  • Work within and promote corporate values.
KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Communicate verbally and in writing, information, instructions, and explanations to associates, clients and management regarding vehicle/component/equipment conditions, problems, recommendations, and repair processes.
  • 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 computerized instrumentation.
  • Appropriate manner, conduct, and grooming adhere to company policy.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively.
  • Knowledge of CAT machine components and systems.
  • Must have acceptable attendance to meet all company standards and requirements.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  • Current driver’s license.
  • Minimum of 6 months related experience.
  • Completion of eTRAIN test evaluation.
  • Must be able to communicate (speak, read, comprehend, write) in English.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands, talk, or hear, stand, walk, reach with hands and arms climb or balance, and stoop or kneel.
  • The employee is regularly required to lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance, and peripheral vision.
  • May be required to operate a forklift with appropriate certification(s).
  • This position is designated as a "Safety-Sensitive Position". A Safety-Sensitive Position includes tasks or duties that EMPIRE in good faith believes could affect the safety or health of the employee performing the task or others.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and outside weather conditions.
  • The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme cold, and extreme heat.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

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