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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Equipment operated will include a loader, skid steer, water truck, man lift, forklift, etc ... Responsible for the day-to-day plant clean-up and maintenance including manual labor, heavy lifting ...

Seasonal Ranch Worker

Oakville, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... of heavy equipment, including operation of a wood chipper Perform all other related duties as ... as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manualsMust be highly ...

Seasonal Ranch Worker

Oakville, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... of heavy equipment, including operation of a wood chipper Perform all other related duties as ... as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manualsMust be highly ...

Mechanic B

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$34 - $36/hr

Mechanic B's understand the standard operating procedures at the branch, region, and national level ... Recondition and replace assorted parts of the heavy equipment * Diagnoses problem areas for any ...

The Fuels Crew Technician operates in the Wildland Urban Interface and is responsible for operating ... carrying heavy equipment. * Must be able to frequently lift, carry, and or move up to 50 pounds ...

The Fuels Crew Technician operates in the Wildland Urban Interface and is responsible for operating ... carrying heavy equipment. * Must be able to frequently lift, carry, and or move up to 50 pounds ...

Fuels Crew Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$18.84 - $21.81/hr

Fully knowledgeable of and proven experience safely operating chainsaws, string trimmers, hand ... carrying heavy equipment. * Must be able to frequently lift, carry, and or move up to 50 pounds ...

This is an entry-level position. However, if you have industry experience, we want to hear from you ... Exposure to heavy equipment, slick surfaces, and hot-cold temperatures. Major Accountabilities:

This is an entry-level position. However, if you have industry experience, we want to hear from you ... Exposure to heavy equipment, slick surfaces, and hot-cold temperatures. Major Accountabilities:

This is an entry-level position. However, if you have industry experience, we want to hear from you ... Exposure to heavy equipment, slick surfaces, and hot-cold temperatures. Major Accountabilities:

... owned and operated business.It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters ... heavy equipment repair, preferably in a heavy industrial environment with or an equivalent ...

Mechanic Assistant - Swing Shift

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

... or equipment change. * Works with drivers and operators to determine repair requirements as ... heavy equipment machinery, truck and trailers, and industrial electric systems. * Principles and ...

Mechanic Assistant (Recycling Plant)

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

... or equipment change. * Works with drivers and operators to determine repair requirements as ... maintenance of heavy equipment machinery, and industrial electric systems. * Principles and ...

Fleet Mechanic - Swing Shift

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26.50 - $34/hr

Diagnoses, tests and repairs vehicles and/or heavy landfill equipment including, but not limited to ... Ability to maintain high levels of activity or productivity; operating with effectiveness, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

$25

$36

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 Santa Rosa, CA is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $29.42 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Santa Rosa, CA 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 $53,934 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Utility Specialist/Loader Operator

CalPortland

Napa, CA • On-site

$35 - $39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


CalPortland rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary

The Utility Specialist Loader Operator is responsible for maintaining the ready-mix plant and performing other general duties as needed. This individual will operate equipment commonly found necessary for the proper maintenance of a ready-mix plant. Equipment operated will include a loader, skid steer, water truck, man lift, forklift, etc. Training received will also cover back-up batch activities and plant maintenance. The daily responsibilities may not be site-specific. All duties are to be performed while exhibiting and championing safe work and environmental compliance practices for the incumbent as well as co-workers.

Benefits

At CalPortland, we're proud to offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that provides health and financial support to our most important resources: our employees. Your benefits are an important part of your overall compensation at CalPortland. That's why we give you a wide range of benefits to choose from. All regular full-time employees may enroll in a variety of health and welfare plans including medical, dental, and vision plans. Other benefits include life insurance, disability coverage, an employee assistance program, and a retirement program. The company also has a variety of voluntary benefits for employees to choose from.

Compensation

$25/hourly - Probationary pay; $35-$39/hourly - Post probationary period pay

Responsibilities
  • Responsible for the day-to-day plant clean-up and maintenance including manual labor, heavy lifting, shoveling, lubrication of plant components, and minor plant adjustments
  • Perform other tasks associated with the production of concrete products as assigned
  • Load, unload, and move material
  • Operate a range of loaders including skip loader, front loader, man lift, and forklift
  • Demonstrate safe and efficient operation of equipment
  • Work with team members to maximize productivity and efficiency
  • Perform daily plant and equipment inspections
  • Operate and/or assist workers engaged in operating machinery and equipment used in the production process
  • Work with plant management to identify potential and existing problems
  • Ensure a safe work environment; immediately report any unsafe conditions, accidents, or incidents to the supervisor
  • Ensure compliance with all federal, health, safety, and environmental legislation/regulations
  • Comply with company policies, procedures, and work rules
  • Perform pre-operational/post-operational checks of equipment to ensure equipment can be operated safely 
  • Perform plant maintenance activities and other duties as directed
Education

High school diploma/GED

Requirements/Qualifications
  • Ability to work safely and properly follow all company policies
  • Understand the knowledge of hazards associated with areas of responsibility
  • Ability to be self-directed, with minimal supervision
  • Must be able to use proper Personal Protective Equipment as required
  • Physical requirements:
    • Sit, stand, stoop, and bend for extended periods of time (up to 8 hours)
    • Climb on equipment, stairs, and ladder as high as 400 feet in elevation
    • Walk on all types of surfaces (uneven and/or slippery ground) and crawl under and into enclosed spaces
    • Ability to lift and or move up to 50-75 lbs. repeatedly and climb stairs and ladders up to 24 feet
    • Ability to see and hear safety indicators and warnings and will have exposure to all levels of noise, requiring hearing protection
  • Must work in all weather conditions: heat, cold, wet, dry, and/or dusty conditions and near hot kiln
  • Experience operating loaders, man lifts, and forklifts
  • Experience operating equipment outside in all weather conditions
  • Ability to work under pressure
  • Reliable transportation
  • Trustworthy and excellent attendance record
  • Overtime is required as needed which may include some weekend work; night work will be required 
  • Please note: Exposure to cement, clay, limestone, and various chemicals

Preferred:

  • Familiarity with MSHA regulations
  • Preferred knowledge of all types of equipment used in the manufacturing of cement
  • Strong computer skills
  • Maintenance-related certifications
  • Commercial driver's license
Conditions of Employment

Successful candidate must submit to a post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check. Some positions require Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration/clearance as well as ongoing alcohol and drug testing. In accordance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for work that will be performed in the San Francisco area, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.


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