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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rifle, CO

QB Energy

Slickline/Swab Rig Technician

Parachute, CO

$25 - $30/hr

This is an entry level role with opportunities for advancement. Essential Duties & Responsibilities ... Identify equipment issues and report them to the Swab Rig Operator * Maintain and operate company ...

JM Huber Corporation

Packaging Operator

Rifle, CO

$23 - $24/hr

Position Summary The Packaging Operator is responsible for supporting safe and efficient plant ... Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, and other material-handling equipment to move heavy ...

JM Huber Corporation

Packaging Operator

Rifle, CO · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Position Summary The Packaging Operator is responsible for supporting safe and efficient plant ... Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, hand trucks, and other material-handling equipment to move heavy ...

American Cementing, LLC

Field Operator-CDL

Rifle, CO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Field Operator-CDL RCO - Rifle, CO 81650 Overview Salary Range $19.00 - $23.00 Hourly Position ... Operate and maintain cementing service equipment in the yard and at the wellsite. * Drive heavy ...

American Cementing, LLC

Field Operator-CDL

Rifle, CO

$19 - $23/hr

Field Operator I-V Company: American Cementing LLC Website: About Us Our cementing services range ... Operate and maintain cementing service equipment in the yard and at the wellsite. * Drive heavy ...

American Cementing, LLC

Field Operator-CDL

Rifle, CO · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

Field Operator I-V Company: American Cementing LLC Website: About Us Our cementing services range ... Operate and maintain cementing service equipment in the yard and at the wellsite. * Drive heavy ...

All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rifle, CO

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Rifle, CO salary details

$15

$25

$35

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Rifle, CO is $25.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $28.56 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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For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rifle, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rifle, CO are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Rifle, CO 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 Rifle, CO 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 $52,295 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Equipment Operator I or II

Garfield County Colorado

Rifle, CO • On-site

$25.83 - $37.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

**Must currently hold a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) Application closing date: 9/4/2026 This position is available in either the Rifle or the Glenwood Springs location. Hiring pay range: Equipment Operator I: $25.83 - $31.64 Equipment Operator II: $29.57 - $36.23 Full pay range: Equipment Operator I: $25.83 - $37.45 Equipment Operator II: $29.57 - $42.88 SUPERVISION: Non-Supervisory GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB: Operates a variety of specialized light and heavy equipment to facilitate the construction and maintenance of all facets of County roads and bridges and other rights-of-way within the County and performs light to heavy physical labor. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS : Equipment Operator I: Works under close supervision

Performs entry-level to intermediate, standard level of work, and is the first in a series of three levels of equipment operators. Equipment Operator II: Works independently under minimal supervision and performs full-performance, more complex operations with both heavy and light equipment, and is the second in a series. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: (These duties are illustrative of typical essential responsibilities of the job, and may vary according to assignment) Equipment Operator I: Operates heavy and light equipment which include tampers, mowers, truck, backhoe, and loader.

Operates a variety of work-related tools. Responsible for keeping vehicles and equipment clean, and inspects vehicles for damage, loose parts, tires, and other items that are required for safe operations. Assists in preventative maintenance of equipment.

Keeps trip logs and records, and pre-trip inspection forms, including the posting of equipment hours, fuel, oil, etc. Performs manual labor related to construction, maintenance, and other duties when not operating equipment. Performs snow removal duties, including other winter maintenance on roadways to ensure roadways remain open.

Safely operates equipment and vehicles, observes safety precautions, and wears appropriate safety equipment. Equipment Operator II (In addition to the essential job functions of an Equipment Operator I) Grades dirt and/or gravel roads. Builds or reshapes roadside shoulders.

Operate tandem-axle trucks and/or graders during snowplowing and ice-removal operations. Operate backhoe or track hoe to dig culverts, lay pipe and to clean ditches and cattle guards. May operate bulldozer to "rough in" roads and push fill material; operates bulldozer and tire/track front-end loaders/backhoes to build dumps and crusher sites, clear rights-of-way and build roads.

Operate loader to load trucks from gravel pile, cleans bar ditches and removes rock, mudslides, or flood debris from the roads. Drive tandem-axle dump trucks with gravel or hot mix to road maintenance and construction sites. Load, transport and unload heavy equipment with tractor-trailer.

Operates tandem-axle trucks and/or graders during snowplowing and ice-removal operations. Other duties as assigned. CORE COMPETENCIES : (Representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities expected of the position) Equipment Operator I Public Service: A commitment to the mission of providing exceptional services to the citizens of Garfield County.

It is who we are, and what we do. Customer Service: A commitment to providing exceptional service to all customers (internal & external), which includes being helpful, professional, courteous, and taking the time to understand customer's needs. Stewardship & Innovation: Is a good steward of public resources and looks for ways to be innovative and improve efficiencies.

Teamwork: Able to work together with a diverse group of people towards a shared goal, while considering the needs of others. Business Technology: Ability to utilize the technology required of the position and demonstrates a willingness to learn new technologies as required to assist the County in providing exceptional services, innovation, and work efficiencies. Communication: Proficient in communication, and able to communicate using the English language, including written, verbal, or other communication channels as required by the position.

Road Maintenance and Basic Construction: knowledge of materials, tools, and methods required to complete basic construction and maintenance activities. Equipment Operations: Proficient in equipment operations and knowledgeable about equipment parts and systems sufficient for safe use of equipment. Equipment Operator II (In addition to the core competencies of an Equipment Operator I) Advanced Road Maintenance & Construction: Able to work from construction specifications or blueprints, identify and correct problems on the job.

BENEFITS: Medical, Vision, Dental Disability & Life Insurance Retirement Plan Paid Vacation & Sick Time Employee Wellness Programs Employee Gyms To view the complete benefits information, please visit https://www.garfieldcountyco.gov/human-resources/benefits-brochure/ .

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