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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$14

$24

$34

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 Silver Spring, MD is $24.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.84 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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What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

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Cities near Silver Spring, MD 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 Silver Spring, MD 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 $50,996 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator I

Charah Solutions Inc.

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$18.54 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview
Do you thrive in a company in which you roll up your sleeves and get it done? Do you want to work for a company that is people-centric, execution driven, accountability focused and marked by world-class safety, a high level of energy and unquestionable integrity? If so, come join us. Charah Solutions is the leading provider of environmental services and byproduct sales to the power generation industry.
Based in Louisville, Kentucky, we assist utilities and independent power producers in sustainably managing and recycling ash byproducts generated from the combustion of coal in the production of electricity. With over 30 years of experience, we also design and implement solutions for ash pond management and closure, landfill construction, fly ash sales, and structural fill projects. To be our best, we need the best. At Charah Solutions, our best begins with you.
Charah Solutions offers: Competitive Pay, Medical, Dental, Vision, Company Paid Short- & Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, 401(k) with Company Contribution After 1 Year, Paid Time Off, Incredible Safety Record, and Well-Maintained Equipment.
This position is responsible for the use and operation of heavy construction equipment which could include a forklift, dozer, front end loader, excavator, roller, backhoe or articulated dump truck in a safe and efficient manner.
Responsibilities
  • Load and/or move various materials (ash, dirt, rock, etc.) using heavy construction equipment
  • Drive and maneuver equipment equipped with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation and rocks to distribute and level earth or terrain
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed
  • Must be able to quickly and repeatedly adjust controls of machine to exact positions as necessary
  • Learn, follow, and promote all safety regulations
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Minimum one-year experience operating heavy equipment in a construction or similar environment required
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Knowledge of materials, methods, and tools involved in ash management, structural fills and landfills preferred
  • Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance preferred
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred

Work Environment & Conditions
  • This position requires a flexible work schedule: nights, weekends, holidays, and/or overtime
  • Must be able to climb, maintain body equilibrium, reach, grasp, bend and walk/stand/sit for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to hear and see naturally or with correction
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Be subject to loud noises
  • Be subject to atmospheric conditions - one or more of the following conditions that affect the respiratory system or the skin: fumes, odor, dust, mists, gases, or poor ventilation
  • This position requires working in the internal and external environment
  • Ability to work independently and as a team
  • Ability to work under pressure with time constraints in a changing environment
  • Ability to effectively communicate

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