ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Sulligent, AL

Burns Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, MS · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Columbus, MS Burns Group is a family-owned business, established in 1977 serving the civil construction and aggregates industry in the Southeast. Our portfolio includes heavy ...

EDW. C. Levy CO.

Power Washer, SMS

Columbus, MS · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

If your long-term goal is to become a heavy equipment operator or perhaps you dream of becoming a heavy equipment mechanic. No need to knock, Levy's door is open to you! The Levy Group of Companies ...

Levy

Power Washer, SMS

Columbus, MS · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

If your long-term goal is to become a heavy equipment operator or perhaps you dream of becoming a heavy equipment mechanic. No need to knock, Levy's door is open to you! The Levy Group of Companies ...

EquipmentShare

Heavy Equipment CDL Driver

Columbus, MS · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Heavy Equipment CDL Driver At EquipmentShare ... to be operated * Must pass background and drug testing as required by federal and/or state ...

EquipmentShare

Heavy Equipment CDL Driver

Columbus, MS · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Heavy Equipment CDL Driver At EquipmentShare ... to be operated * Must pass background and drug testing as required by federal and/or state ...

EquipmentShare

Heavy Equipment CDL Driver

Columbus, MS · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Heavy Equipment CDL Driver At EquipmentShare ... to be operated * Must pass background and drug testing as required by federal and/or state ...

EquipmentShare

Heavy Equipment CDL Driver

Columbus, MS · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Heavy Equipment CDL Driver At EquipmentShare ... to be operated * Must pass background and drug testing as required by federal and/or state ...

CRH

Asphalt Paving Laborer

Columbus, MS · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Safely and efficiently operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights used in road, site or highway construction and paving. * Report any problems to your manager. * Operator will be ...

CRH

Asphalt Paving Laborer

Columbus, MS · On-site

Safely and efficiently operate heavy equipment of various sizes and weights used in road, site or highway construction and paving. * Report any problems to your manager. * Operator will be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Sulligent, AL

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Sulligent, AL salary details

$7

$13

$18

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Sulligent, AL is $13.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.87 and $15.00 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 cities near Sulligent, AL are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Sulligent, AL 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 Sulligent, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,514 per year, or $13.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Burns Engineering, Inc.

Columbus, MS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator
Columbus, MS
Burns Group is a family-owned business, established in 1977 serving the civil construction and aggregates industry in the Southeast. Our portfolio includes heavy civil, logistics, and recycling divisions. Our core values and dedication to our people guide every aspect of our company. We invite you to contact us and see what it means to be #burnsbuilt.
Ideal Candidate
Requires at least two years experience of the following responsibilities:
  • Experience operating in a wide variety of motorized heavy equipment and vehicles used in earthwork and civil construction, including but not limited to:
    - Bulldozers
    - Excavators
    - Motorgraders / Rollers
  • Prepares heavy equipment by conducting inspections; performing preventive maintenance checks.
  • Prepares work by studying and clarifying plans, calculating requirements and gathering supplies.
  • Maintains safe, secure, and healthy work environment by following standards and procedures and complying with legal regulations

Preferred Qualifications / Skills:
  • Experience with Trimble GPS or other machine control systems is preferred but not required
  • Ability to read labels, safety warnings, and guidelines
  • Attention to detail and alert at all times to ensure safety
  • Able to receive and follow instructions
  • Communicates well with co-workers
  • Ability to safely operate various vehicles and equipment
  • Previous experience, especially in the construction industry, preferred

All candidates must be able to pass the following:
  • Drug Screen (fee paid by Burns)
  • Background Screening
  • MVR Screening

At Burns Dirt, we believe in a skills-first approach to recruitment and employment. We are committed to removing barriers, enhancing opportunities, and empowering individuals based on merit and potential.
Employment Eligibility:
Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility will be required if selected for hire.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Burns Dirt is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.

Apply