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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Turner Staffing Group Location: Kershaw, South Carolina, USA Position Type: Full-Time About Us: Turner Staffing Group, in collaboration with our esteemed mining ...

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Turner Mining Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Montpelier, VA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Turner Staffing Group Location: Montpelier, Virginia Position Type: Full-Time About Us: Turner Staffing Group, in collaboration with our esteemed mining partner in ...

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Turner Mining Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Turner Staffing Group Location: Kershaw, South Carolina, USA Position Type: Full-Time About Us: Turner Staffing Group, in collaboration with our esteemed mining ...

Condustrial, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ladson, SC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for one of our trusted clients in the Ladson, SC area. This is a great opportunity for an experienced professional looking to stay busy on long-term ...

K2 Construction LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

We have an immediate opening for a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator. Hours of operation are Monday- Friday 7am to 5pm with some overtime and weekends. Candidates must complete a pre-employment drug ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

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

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Entry level heavy equipment operators typically do not earn $700 a day; such high daily rates are usually associated with specialized or highly experienced roles, such as skilled crane operators or union heavy equipment operators with certifications. These positions often require extensive training, certifications, and experience, and may involve overtime or hazardous work conditions that justify higher pay. Most entry-level roles pay significantly less, but experienced operators in certain industries can reach or exceed this daily rate.

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.

How to start out as a heavy equipment operator?

To start as a heavy equipment operator, gain relevant skills through vocational training or apprenticeships, and obtain necessary certifications such as OSHA safety training. Practical experience with equipment like bulldozers or excavators is valuable, and many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent. Entry-level positions often require physical fitness and the ability to work in outdoor environments.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry-level heavy equipment operator jobs often do not require prior experience, but applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may need to complete a training program or obtain a certification such as OSHA safety training. Employers may also look for physical fitness, the ability to learn equipment operation, and a willingness to work in various environments. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or training courses can improve job prospects.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level heavy equipment operators can earn around $4,000 a week with experience, proper certifications, and working in high-demand industries like construction or mining. These roles often require operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers or cranes, and may involve overtime or shift work to reach that income level.

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, and why are they important?

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.
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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Geary County

Junction City, KS

$22.45/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

GEARY COUNTY JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator/

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee

FLSA: Non-Exempt Salary Range: 30- $22.45/hr. Trainee: 30 – $21.38/hr.

Reports To: Road and Bridge Supervisor PCN: VARIOUS

Department: Public Works Department Date: February 2020

JOB SUMMARY

The job duties of the skilled Heavy Equipment Operator include but are not limited to provide highway and bridge maintenance and construction, construction and maintenance materials handling, and highway facilities maintenance; and to provide responsive, courteous and efficient service to County residents and the general public. Performs other duties as assigned. NOTE: Employees that do not meet the minimum qualifications for a Heavy Equipment Operator may be hired as a Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee. Employee will have one (1) year to complete the training, as determined by the Public Works Director, and complete all of the minimum requirements outlined below.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties described below are indicative of what the Heavy Equipment Operator might be asked to perform. This job description is to incorporate any County resolutions for the position of Heavy Equipment Operator or other designated equipment job descriptions. This position description is not designed to list all tasks and responsibilities of this position. Geary County reserves the right to revise or change job duties as the need may arise. This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Equipment Operation. Operates heavy equipment such as motor grader, roller, dozer, backhoe, oil distributor, loader, and other related heavy equipment. Performs finish grading operations. Communicates with other truck drivers and other operators to coordinate materials handling and delivery. Responds to emergency situations including high water, blocked roads, washouts, snow and ice events, cargo spills, traffic accidents and others as directed. Performs general highway maintenance and related activities including snow and ice removal, temporary and permanent asphalt surface repairs, patching holes, sawing pavement, concrete repairs, sign repairs, clearing brush, hauling materials, flagging traffic, roadway vegetation control, sweeping intersections, routing, and sealing road cracks, culvert and drainage work, removing dead animals and trash and buildings and facilities maintenance repairs. Measures and places grade and alignment stakes using tapes, measuring devices and construction grade levels. Operates loader and equipment for stock piling of road salt, sand, gravel, and patch material. Ensures all materials, vehicle and equipment are secured and are used in a safe and proper manner whether at job site or on Highway property. Performs various assignments including painting, moving furniture, building bleachers and barricades, etc.

Equipment Maintenance. Perform necessary maintenance and preventative maintenance to assigned machinery and equipment as directed.

Administrative Functions. Record and make reports for production, plant, inventory, state, federal and other types of reports and/or recordkeeping requirements. Assists and/or is responsible for maintaining stockroom inventory, supplies; includes delivery, maintenance and cleaning of stockroom supplies and designated areas.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required at the time of hire or for the continuation of employment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Three (3) years of experience in heavy equipment operation such as a grader, loader, plow truck, and tractor.
  • One (1) year of experience operating motor grader.
  • One (1) year of road maintenance experience.
  • Class A Kansas CDL.
  • Tanker endorsement within 60 days of employment.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR TRAINEE

  • High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Class A Kansas CDL.
  • Tanker endorsement within 60 days of employment.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Knowledge of road and bridge construction and maintenance, construction materials, materials handling, grading, excavation, drainage systems, foundation soils, soils and construction materials compaction and construction staking.
  • Knowledge of operation and maintenance of assigned equipment and machinery including hydraulic systems, trailers, towing, fastening, and covering of loads, lifting capacities and proper loading to meet safe and efficient weight distributions.
  • Knowledge of Digger’s Hotline, utility markings and clearances and rules for safe equipment operation in close proximity to underground and overhead utility facilities.
  • Knowledge of construction industry safety rules as identified in the Geary County Highway Department of Employee Safety manual.
  • Knowledge of legal load limits for assigned equipment and trucks.
  • Ability to operate assigned machinery and equipment skillfully and safely in close proximity to vehicular traffic, grade and alignment stakes, slopes, trucks, other construction equipment, laborers and utilities.
  • Ability to oil, grease, fuel and perform preventative maintenance on assigned equipment and machinery.
  • Ability to maintain a professional demeanor when dealing with the public.
  • Ability to take control of situations in a responsible manner.
  • Ability to interpret and implement local policies and procedures; written instructions, general correspondence, Federal, State, and local regulations, safety manuals, operating and repair manuals, warning labels, etc.
  • Ability to operate a variety of equipment relating to construction and maintenance or roads and bridges.

EQUIPMENT KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED

  • Ability to operate various types of equipment i.e. motor grader, crane, tractor, roller, loader, backhoe, oil distributor and other heavy and light construction and maintenance equipment.
  • Ability to use two-way radios, computer, fax machine, measuring tapes, levels, hand tools, power tools, and other machinery.
  • Ability to use GPS and GIS data relating to county landmarks, roads, etc.
  • Other equipment could be required.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

  • Ability to maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a professional and friendly manner with customers, citizens, co-workers and management.
  • Ability to communicate in both written and verbal form.
  • Ability to communicate and convey information regarding policies and processes to others in both written and verbal form.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

  • Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.

REASONING ABILITY

  • Ability to respond to complaints and grievances posed by the public.
  • Ability to define problems and deal with a variety of situations.
  • Ability to think quickly, maintain self-control, and adapt to stressful situations.
  • Ability to use good judgment and effectively solve problems.

PHYSICAL AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical and work environments described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Physical Environment:

  • The duties of this job include physical activities such as stooping, kneeling, standing, reaching, walking, lifting and/or move (up to 100 pounds), grasping, talking, hearing/listening, seeing/observing, and repetitive motions.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance and peripheral vision; depth perception; and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

  • Must be able to operate equipment and machinery in all types of weather conditions including snow removal in the winter.
  • Due to the volume, scope, size of staff and nature of public service this office provides, full-time regular attendance is essential.

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