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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 ...

Precision 2000 (P2K)

Equipment Operator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Equipment Operator Position Overview Perform a variety of tasks involving equipment, operating and/or physical labor in heavy civil construction and demolition sites. Operates construction equipment ...

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator

Hickory, NC · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking an Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator

Dallas, GA

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking an Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and ...

UpTalent

Equipment Operator

Midland, TX · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Equipment Operator in Midland, TX Pay Rate: $18 - $23 (Depending on Experience) Rotation: 15 days on - 6 days off Housing Provided $30/day per diem (*Class A CDL with no restrictions is required ...

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 ...

Placer County California

Equipment Operator

Auburn, CA · On-site

$31.47 - $39.28/hr

Equipment Operator This is the full journey level class within the Equipment Operator series. This class is distinguished from the Maintenance Worker by the assignment of the full range of duties.

SAFE HARBOR MARINAS

Equipment Operator

Glen Cove, NY · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

ABYC Training The Equipment Operator is responsible for the movement of all vessels located in the facility for haul & launch, designated work, storage or sales. This position is also required to ...

METCON INC

Equipment Operator

Pembroke, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Equipment Operator uses a variety construction class vehicle on various job sites in all weather conditions. You will perform duties as part of a team and will be expected to communicate effectively ...

SSR Mining, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Valmy, NV · On-site

$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 ...

Martin Marietta

Equipment Operator

Hickory, NC · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking an Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Equipment Operator

Hickory, NC · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Martin Marietta is seeking an Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and ...

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Equipment Operator information

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$13

$22

$31

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 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 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.

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 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 equipment operators make the most money?

Heavy equipment operators who specialize in high-demand machinery such as crane, bulldozer, or excavator operators tend to earn the highest wages. Those with specialized skills, certifications, and experience working in industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas typically have higher earning potential. Advanced training and operating complex or large equipment can also increase salary levels for equipment operators.

What is the job of an equipment operator?

An equipment operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, or excavators to perform construction, landscaping, or industrial tasks. They must follow safety protocols, often hold relevant certifications, and have good mechanical skills to ensure efficient and safe operation in various work environments.
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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, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 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

Boise, ID • On-site

Knife River Corporation

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 544 rated manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Knife River Corporationexternal

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Role Overview:
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 Qualifications:
As a successful Operator, you will have:
- Ability to hold and maintain a driver's license in accordance with all state regulations
Qualified candidates will have experience working with Excavators, Loaders and other heavy construction equipment.
- Ability to work flexible shifts, including overtime, possible nights and some Saturdays.
Additional Information:
If unable to apply online, stop by our office at:
Knife River Corporation - Mountain Division
5450 W Gowen Rd
Boise, ID 83709
Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected Veteran status. Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.
At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Equipment Operator Grade Team.
Air Force:
  • Pavement and Construction Equipment Journeyman
  • Pavement and Construction Equipment Apprentice
  • Pavement and Construction Equipment Helper

Army:
  • Motor Transport Operator
  • General Construction Equipment Operator
  • Heavy Construction Equipment Operator
  • Horizontal Construction Engineer

Navy:
  • Equipment Operator
  • Equipment Operator Basic
  • Advanced Equipment Operator

Marines:
  • Motor Vehicle Operator

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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