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Entry Level Heavy Equipment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JCR Excavating LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

This is not an entry-level position. What You'll Do: * Operate dozer, excavator, and/or motor ... Minimum 2+ years of heavy equipment experience (must include dozer, excavator, or grader) * Proven ...

Mustang Cat

Heavy Equipment Technician/Mechanic

Bryan, TX · On-site

$17 - $45/hr

Heavy Equipment Technicians / Mechanics - Bryan, TX (Entry Level to Advanced | Diesel Mechanic | Training Provided | Construction Equipment) Mustang Cat is actively hiring Heavy Equipment Mechanics ...

Rogers Group

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$30/hr

Wages starting at $30.00/hr. for entry level candidates. This includes a $26.00 per hour base and ... This role requires previous experience as a mechanic working on heavy equipment. The role will be ...

Rogers Group

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$30/hr

Wages starting at $30.00/hr. for entry level candidates. This includes a $26.00 per hour base and ... This role requires previous experience as a mechanic working on heavy equipment. The role will be ...

Rogers Group

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$30/hr

Wages starting at $30.00/hr. for entry level candidates. This includes a $26.00 per hour base and ... This role requires previous experience as a mechanic working on heavy equipment. The role will be ...

Northeast Paving

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Nashua, NH · On-site

$26.25 - $34.50/hr

Education and Experience This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires demonstrable previous experience as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic. A high school diploma or general education ...

DFW CONCRETE PROS

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Justin, TX · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Civil / Concrete Construction Company: DFW Concrete Pros Position: Heavy ... This is not an entry-level operator position. Civil, demolition, or concrete construction ...

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DFW CONCRETE PROS

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Justin, TX · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Civil / Concrete Construction Company: DFW Concrete Pros Position: Heavy ... This is not an entry-level operator position. Civil, demolition, or concrete construction ...

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Entry Level Heavy Equipment information

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

As of Aug 12, 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.

Which entry level heavy equipment job pays the most?

Entry-level heavy equipment operator jobs, such as crane or bulldozer operators, tend to offer the highest starting wages among entry-level positions, especially when working in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries. These roles often require a commercial driver's license (CDL) or certification and may include overtime pay, which can increase overall earnings.

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.

How to start working on entry level heavy equipment?

To start working in entry-level heavy equipment roles, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a training program or apprenticeship, and earn relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions helps develop skills in operating machinery like bulldozers, excavators, or loaders.

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 get an entry level heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry level heavy equipment operator jobs often require a high school diploma or equivalent and may accept candidates with no prior experience if they complete relevant training or certification programs, such as OSHA safety courses or equipment operation certifications. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships, training programs, or volunteering can improve chances, and some employers offer on-the-job training for new operators. Developing skills in equipment handling, safety procedures, and basic maintenance can also enhance employability.

What is an entry level heavy equipment job?

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?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, 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.

Heavy Equipment Operator

JCR Excavating LLC

Williston, ND • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

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Job description

Position Overview:
JCR Excavating is hiring a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for oilfield and commercial civil dirt work. This role requires proven experience running dozers, graders and/or excavators in a production environment.

This is not an entry-level position.

What You’ll Do:

  • Operate dozer, excavator, and/or motor grader in daily production
  • Perform rough and finish grading, pad work, and site development
  • Read and work from plans, stakes, and grade (GPS/Topcon experience a plus)
  • Work independently or with a crew to meet production targets
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized jobsite

Required Experience:

  • Minimum 2+ years of heavy equipment experience (must include dozer, excavator, or grader)
  • Proven ability to produce grade and work efficiently without constant supervision
  • Experience in oilfield civil earthwork and/or commercial civil construction preferred
  • Understanding of soil conditions, compaction, and site prep

Preferred Qualifications:

  • GPS machine control experience (Topcon preferred)
  • CDL Class A
  • Strong finish grading skills

What We’re Looking For:

  • Operators who can step in and produce immediately
  • Individuals who take pride in clean, accurate work
  • Team players who show up ready to work every day

Compensation & Benefits:

  • $25–$35+ per hour DOE
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Competitive benefits package
  • Consistent, local work