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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Tycol Excavating

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Tycol Excavating and Property Services is seeking a skilled and reliable Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support ...

Envirocon

Operator

Kalamazoo, MI

The Equipment Operator will skillfully operate various types of heavy equipment (92,000 lbs. tracked excavator, D-6 dozer, D-8 dozer, 3-5CY loader, etc.) associated with dirt work construction. The ...

Envirocon

Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

The Equipment Operator will skillfully operate various types of heavy equipment (92,000 lbs. tracked excavator, D-6 dozer, D-8 dozer, 3-5CY loader, etc.) associated with dirt work construction. The ...

Amrize

Equipment / Quarry Operator

Niles, MI · On-site

Join Amrize as a Equipment / Quarry Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your skills to work on projects that matter - and build a career with a company that's building ...

Amrize

Equipment / Quarry Operator

Niles, MI · On-site

Join Amrize as a Equipment / Quarry Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your skills to work on projects that matter - and build a career with a company that's building ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$13

$21

$31

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in Three Rivers, MI is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $24.81 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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For Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Three Rivers, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Three Rivers, MI 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 Three Rivers, MI 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 $45,495 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

CRIPPS FONTAINE EXCAVATING
Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about CRIPPS FONTAINE EXCAVATINGexternal

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator Position

Must have knowledge and experience running

  1. Excavator
  2. Bulldozer
  3. Loader
  4. Skidsteer
  5. Roller

CDL Class A possession is a plus, experience with GPS on equipment is also desired.

Benefits include

  1. PTO Days
  2. Health Insurance
  3. Dental Insurance
  4. Vision Insurance
  5. Life Insurance
  6. 401(k) after one year of service

We are looking for someone with a great attitude, punctual and eager to get the job done right for our heavy equipment operator position. Local work, we have projects ranging from 5 miles to 50 miles from the shop, hours 7a-5pm Monday through Friday.

Must be able to pass a background check and drug test.