ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Knife River Corporation

Equipment Operator

Boise, ID · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Equipment Operators needed for projects throughout Southern Idaho. May require availability to work a variety of shifts including weekends or to travel out of town for various jobs. Minimum ...

Weitsman Recycling

Equipment Operator

Allegany, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Description We are looking for a reliable equipment operator to join our team. Responsibilities include performing routine equipment checks and maintenance, loading and unloading equipment, and ...

Adecco

Equipment Operator

Southington, CT

$23/hr

If Equipment Operator sounds like something you would be interested in, and you meet the qualifications listed below, apply now! Responsibilities for an Equipment Operator include but are not limited ...

Native Land Co

Equipment Operator

Palmetto, FL · Remote

$25/hr

Equipment Operator Pay: $25.00 per hour We are currently seeking a reliable and experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. This position requires travel and the ability to work on job sites for ...

Native Land Co

Equipment Operator

Palmetto, FL · Remote

Equipment Operator Pay: $25.00 per hour We are currently seeking a reliable and experienced Equipment Operator to join our team. This position requires travel and the ability to work on job sites for ...

Waste Connections of Canada

Equipment Operator

Virginia, IL

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

American Recycling is looking for a safety conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join the team at our sorting center in Manassas, VA . Our priority is to make sure we hire safe equipment operators ...

SSR Mining, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Valmy, NV

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

The heavy equipment operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment as well as learning and interacting with the Modular Dispatch System in the equipment. The Heavy ...

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Rhinelander, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility equipment (ex. horizontal directional drill, vibratory plow, excavators, skid steer). Must possess ...

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Iron River, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility equipment (ex. horizontal directional drill, vibratory plow, excavators, skid steer). Must possess ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a heavy equipment to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other ...

Titan America

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Overview We are looking for a skilled and motivated Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in New Castle, VA. This position will be responsible for operating heavy equipment and participating in ...

Titan America

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Overview We are looking for a skilled and motivated Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team in New Castle, VA. This position will be responsible for operating heavy equipment and participating in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEquipment Operator Jobs

Equipment Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectEquipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsOSHA safety training, heavy machinery certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, factories, warehousesConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, logisticsConstruction, mining, forestry
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for general machinery operationFocuses on large, heavy machinery

While both roles involve operating machinery, Equipment Operators typically handle a variety of equipment in different settings, whereas Heavy Equipment Operators specialize in large, heavy machinery used in construction and mining. The key differences lie in the size of equipment and industry focus, but both require safety training and certifications.

What are some common challenges equipment operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing tight project deadlines, and operating heavy machinery in confined or busy work sites. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and maintaining clear communication with team members are crucial for minimizing risks. Regular equipment inspections and proactive maintenance help prevent breakdowns that could cause delays. Seeking ongoing training or certifications can also enhance operational efficiency and open up advancement opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equipment operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Equipment Operator, you need practical experience with heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver's license (CDL) or specialized equipment certification. Familiarity with operating loaders, excavators, forklifts, or cranes, as well as knowledge of safety protocols and maintenance systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and strong problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently in team environments. Mastering these skills ensures safe operation, reduces the risk of accidents, and maximizes productivity on job sites.
More about Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Equipment Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? The top employers for Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Equipment Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs? For Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Lead Equipment Operator

Maryland Environmental Service

Dickerson, MD

$50K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Maryland Environmental Service rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 441 rated engineering

Job description

Current MES Employees who are interested in applying for this position must visit the Internal MES Careers Page by going to their Workday Dashboard, clicking on the Career icon and selecting Find Jobs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading team that provides environmental solutions to the public and private sectors throughout the State of Maryland.

Job Description:

Maryland Environmental Service has an opening for an Equipment Operator, Senior Equipment Operator, or Lead Equipment Operator at our Montgomery County Yardwaste facility located in Dickerson, MD.

Estimated Pay Range:

Equipment Operator:$45,666.23 - $62,791.65

Senior Equipment Operator: $50,233.92 - $69,070.88

Lead Equipment Operator:$55,256.40 - $75,978.12

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance with choice of medical plan and prescription, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance options, along with flexible spending accounts

  • 401K retirement savings program with generous agency match

  • Paid vacation, personal and sick leave

  • Eleven paid holidays per year

  • Tuition assistance

Minimum Requirements:

All classification levels require graduation from a standard high school or GED, ability to pass a standard physical examination, ability to lift 50 pounds, and possession of a valid driver's license with less than 5 points.

The EO classification is required to have one (1) year experience operating heavy equipment, the Senior EO is required to have three (3) years experience operating heavy equipment, and the Lead EO is required to have five (5) years experience operating heavy equipment

Appointment to some sites may also require Commercial Driver's License with specific endorsements.

This position will be open until filled.

The Equipment Operator position is eligible for on-spot, contingent offers. Candidates who apply after an on-spot offer has been extended (including internal candidates) will not be considered unless the candidate who receives the on-spot, contingent offer does not complete the process to become an MES employee.

Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully completing required pre-employment screens, to include full background check, drug & alcohol screening, and position appropriate physical.

Maryland Environmental Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. MES does not participate in programs that require sponsorship for work visas.

What Maryland Environmental Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply