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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL

GFL Environmental

Mechanic

New Berlin, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... heavy duty diesel trucks and equipment including rolling stock to ensure its ability to operate ... operating safely and reliably. -Perform preventative maintenance and complete repairs to ensure ...

GFL Environmental

Mechanic

Springfield, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... heavy duty diesel trucks and equipment including rolling stock to ensure its ability to operate ... operating safely and reliably. -Perform preventative maintenance and complete repairs to ensure ...

GFL Environmental

Mechanic

Waverly, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... heavy duty diesel trucks and equipment including rolling stock to ensure its ability to operate ... operating safely and reliably. -Perform preventative maintenance and complete repairs to ensure ...

Genuine Parts Company

Store Parts Professional

Springfield, IL · On-site

$19.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Capable of operating TAMS point-of-sale system and cataloging * Able to use the adding machine and ... Able to move engine blocks, core barrels, and other heavy equipment with moving aids designed to ...

MasTec Inc

Union Service Truck Driver

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Service Truck Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the Service Truck * Knowledge to ...

MasTec Inc

Union Service Truck Driver

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Service Truck Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the Service Truck * Knowledge to ...

MasTec Inc

Union Service Truck Driver

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Service Truck Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the Service Truck * Knowledge to ...

MasTec Inc

Union Service Truck Driver

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Service Truck Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the Service Truck * Knowledge to ...

MasTec Inc

Union Service Truck Driver

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Service Truck Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the Service Truck * Knowledge to ...

MasTec Inc

Union Service Truck Driver

Springfield, IL · On-site

The Service Truck Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the Service Truck * Knowledge to ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Springfield, IL

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 20, 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.
More about Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs

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:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Springfield, IL?

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.

Mechanic

GFL Environmental

New Berlin, IL • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

GFL Environmental rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 172 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Safely operate, repair, rebuild and perform maintenance on Company owned or leased heavy duty diesel trucks and equipment including rolling stock to ensure its ability to operate safely


 

Join our team as a Diesel Mechanic in the Waste Management industry-an essential industry that provides stable, year round work with consistent hours.
Starting Pay: $25-$30/hr
More pay available based on experience, certifications and skill level.
Shift: 830am-6pm M-F. Overtime after 40hrs worked.


Benefits:
-15 Days PTO
-Quarterly Tool Allowance
-Annual Boot Reimbursement
-Overtime after 40hrs
-Health benefits after 60 days
-401K after 6 months
Responsibilities:
-Perform daily inspections, diagnose issues, troubleshoot problems, and complete repairs on Diesel Refuse Trucks.
-Repair and troubleshoot hydraulic systems, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, PTO systems, and other truck components.
-Diagnose and repair mechanical issues to keep Refuse Trucks operating safely and reliably.
-Perform preventative maintenance and complete repairs to ensure fleet vehicles are ready for daily operation.

#GFLTalent


 

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact myworkdayrecruitment@gflenv.com
Please note that GFL does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Valid work authorization in the country where the job is located is required. Successful candidates will be required to provide valid documentation confirming their eligibility to work in the country where the job is located prior to their start date.


This hiring process may utilize machine-based systems to assist in screening and assessing applicants. Final selection decisions are made by our recruitment team.


 

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