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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Emerysapp

Heavy Equipment Mechanic - Tucson

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$24.50 - $32.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Mechanic (Entry-Level) ABOUT RUMMEL CONSTRUCTION, INC. Rummel Construction, Inc. is a Heavy Civil General Contractor specializing in mass excavation and grading. We are 100% employee ...

ASCO Equipment

Heavy Equipment Service Technician

Clovis, NM · On-site

$24.25 - $33/hr

... however, entry-level skill set will be provided on the job training. The Service Technician is ... heavy equipment in order to meet customer needs in a responsive, friendly, educated, and timely ...

ASCO Equipment

Heavy Equipment Service Technician

Bryan, TX · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

... prefered, however, entry-level skill set will be provided on the job training. The Service ... heavy equipment in order to meet customer needs in a responsive, friendly, educated, and timely ...

ASCO Equipment

Heavy Equipment Service Technician

Bryan, TX

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

... prefered, however, entry-level skill set will be provided on the job training. The Service ... heavy equipment in order to meet customer needs in a responsive, friendly, educated, and timely ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment information

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$17

$30

$41

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

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level heavy equipment in the United States is $30.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to start a career in heavy machinery?

To start a career in heavy machinery as an entry-level operator, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a training program or apprenticeship, and earn relevant certifications such as a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or equipment-specific credentials. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions helps develop skills in operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently.

What are typical challenges faced by entry level heavy equipment operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level heavy equipment operators often face challenges such as mastering the controls of various machines, adapting to different job site conditions, and maintaining safety standards. New operators may also find it challenging to communicate effectively with experienced crew members and supervisors. Overcoming these challenges typically involves hands-on training, asking questions, and paying close attention to safety protocols. Regular feedback from senior operators and a willingness to learn can help new operators quickly gain confidence and proficiency.

What is the difference between Entry Level Heavy Equipment vs Entry Level Construction Equipment Operator?

AspectEntry Level Heavy EquipmentEntry Level Construction Equipment Operator
Required CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic equipment operationOSHA safety training, equipment operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial areasConstruction sites, outdoor projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, mining, landscapingConstruction, infrastructure projects

Entry Level Heavy Equipment generally refers to individuals with basic training in operating various machinery, while Entry Level Construction Equipment Operator specifically emphasizes operating construction-specific machinery. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar outdoor environments, but the construction equipment operator role often involves more specialized training for specific machinery used in construction projects.

How to be a heavy equipment mechanic with no experience?

Becoming an entry-level heavy equipment mechanic typically involves gaining basic mechanical skills through vocational training, community college programs, or apprenticeships. Prior experience in related fields or with tools can be helpful, and obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific certifications can improve job prospects.

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

Entry level heavy equipment operator jobs often do not require prior experience, but employers typically look for a high school diploma or equivalent, along with the ability to operate machinery safely. Completing a training program or obtaining a certification such as OSHA or NCCER can improve job prospects, and on-the-job training is common for newcomers.

Is 50 too old to become a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operator roles are open to individuals of various ages, including those around 50, as long as they meet physical requirements and obtain necessary certifications. Experience, training, and a good safety record are often more important than age in this field.

What are entry level heavy equipment jobs?

Entry level heavy equipment jobs involve operating or assisting with the operation of large machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and forklifts on construction sites or in industrial settings. These roles typically require minimal prior experience and may include tasks such as inspecting equipment, performing basic maintenance, and following safety procedures. Training is often provided on the job, and these positions can be a starting point for a career in construction or equipment operation.

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 a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and physical stamina, often supplemented by on-the-job training or a relevant certification. Familiarity with operating machinery such as excavators, loaders, and forklifts, as well as safety protocols and maintenance tools, is important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help operators work safely and efficiently on construction sites. These skills are crucial for minimizing accidents, maintaining equipment, and ensuring project deadlines are met.
More about Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Heavy Equipment job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment jobs? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs are:
Entry Level Heavy Equipment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Heavy Equipment job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,272 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Landfill

Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Landfill

Waste Management

Fairport, NY

$19.52 - $29.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Waste Management rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 608 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 71 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator I with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance of family time? If this speaks to you, then WM might be the place for your next career move. 

Stable work and benefits that support you and your loved ones, a schedule that respects work life balance with your safety at the heart of everything we do and support for your future with training and development based on your unique career goals. That's what you get as a Heavy Equipment Operator I at WM - and more. 

About us

WM is North America's leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services. We partner with our customers and the communities we serve to manage and reduce waste at each stage from collection to disposal, while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy. 

The pay and benefits you'll get as a Heavy Equipment Operator I:

  • Depending on experience

    • Stable hours for your financial stability

      • Access to a stock purchase plan

      • Comprehensive healthcare coverage including dental, vision and prescription coverage.

      • Paid tuition and scholarships for you and your dependents 

      • Company-matched 401(k)

      • Adoption assistance and parent support

These are just a few of our comprehensive benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator I. Whether you are planning on building or expanding your family or looking for the next step in your career - WM is there, helping build the best and total you. 

The hours and location you'll work in as a Heavy Equipment Operator I with WM:

  • Monday - Friday every week
    • 6:30am to 4pm
    • Saturdays as needed
    • We're committed to offering you stable hours for the financial security and work life balance you need.
    • The normal setting for this job is our Landfill in Fairport, NY.

Those are the key details on pay and schedule - now here's more on what you'll be doing as a Heavy Equipment Operator I at WM. 

Each day you'll work at one of our recycling facilities that service over 20 million customers across the USA. As a Heavy Equipment Operator I you'll be responsible for operating heavy equipment like bulldozers, scrapers & front-end loaders - this role is vital to the work we do, so your work will be recognized and valued for the impact it has on our operation. Our heavy equipment operators take their careers to the next level by working on equipment that requires a high level of skill - and determination.  Our waste disposal sites have strict procedures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our Landfill employees. 

Here's more of what you'll do:

  • Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures. 
    • Conducts routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment; maintains accurate records. 
    • Moves and positions raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment.
    • Follow appropriate standard operating procedures as per guidelines for operating and maintaining vehicle. 
    • Performs other duties as assigned. 

What do you need to be considered for the role of Heavy Equipment Operator I?

  • 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment.
    • Be over 18 years of age.
    • Legally eligible to work in the United States
    • Ability to perform physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
    • Successfully complete and pass pre-employment drug screen and physical.
    • Preferred Experience: Dozer, loader and excavator

The kind of people who thrive in our teams:

  • Thrive while working independently.
    • Take accountability for adhering to our safety guidelines.
    • Good communicators who are ready to support other colleagues
    • Able to problem solve while independently.

Work environment and physical demands:

Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. 

  • Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) most of the workday.
    • Required to exert physical effort in handling objects less than 30 pounds occasionally.
    • Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals, etc.) rarely. 
    • Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements most of the workday. 
    • Normal setting for this job is: shop or field. 

Pay: The expected base pay range for this on-site position is $19.52-29.33. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location. 

ABOUT WM
WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of post-consumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavy-duty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

If this position is to be performed in Los Angeles County, California, please read carefully the information contained here in LA County Addendum. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States: WM is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada: WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative.  This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons, or service federal property.  Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID, or TSA approved alternative.  

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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