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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Loader Operator I The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions.

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator I

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$20.41/hr

Adhere to all heavy equipment operating procedures. * Load and offload trailers. * Perform daily or weekly inventory counts * Perform daily inspection and watering services to heavy equipment ...

Glanbia

Warehouse Operator I

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$20.41/hr

Adhere to all heavy equipment operating procedures. * Load and offload trailers. * Perform daily or weekly inventory counts * Perform daily inspection and watering services to heavy equipment ...

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$14.43 - $18.05/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. Responsibilities

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Lincoln, IL · On-site

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. Responsibilities

Ritchie Bros.

Loader Operator I

Lincoln, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions. IAA Holdings, LLC (IAA) IAA ...

ADB

Laborer II - Travel - CDL required

Springfield, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Can independently operate one or more types of heavy equipment (directional drill, mini excavator ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Roland Machinery Co

Shop Technician

Springfield, IL · On-site

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Roland Machinery Co

Shop Technician

Springfield, IL · On-site

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Roland Machinery Co

Field Technician

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Roland Machinery Co

Field Technician

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... heavy equipment and related components * Always be expected to present a favorable company image in appearance, uniform, language, personal conduct, and while operating a company vehicle * Large ...

Aerotek

CNC Machinist

Springfield, IL

$25 - $30/hr

Previous experience setting up and operating CNC mills and/or lathes. * Ability to read blueprints ... Experience machining large or heavy-equipment components. * Manual machining experience.

Oil Changers

Oil Changers Team Member (980)

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$15/hr

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

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Springfield, IL is $23.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.68 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 Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Springfield, IL are:

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For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL 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 Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,891 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Loader Operator I

RB Global Inc.

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Loader Operator I

The Loader Operator I is responsible for operating heavy equipment and trucks, setting up equipment for auction in yards and helping customers during and after auctions.

Responsibilities

Responsible for operating all types of heavy equipment and trucks.

Accountable for helping to set up equipment in the yard for auctions.

Help customers load their equipment purchases, and answer their questions related to the yard.

Actively support the RB Unreserved Commitment to Safety: to send everyone home, every day, the way they came to work, by taking personal responsibility for your safety and safety of your team, co-workers and customers.

Learn and assist on vehicle check in tasks as needed.

Supports and assists with Yard Staff responsibilities as needed.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Experience operating heavy machinery.

Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset.

Good spoken and written English is required.

Good computer skills and able to learn new programs quickly.

A track-record of working safely, and helping others work safely, too.

You must be able to relate well with customers and team members.

You like to work in a team, helping out wherever needed; but you can also self-start and work on your own.

Organized, and can handle lots of multiple tasks at once.

A high level of attention to detail.

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