ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Equipment Operator Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

Ambler Metals

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

The equipment operator maintains site roads, unloads aircraft and completes dirt work as needed. The operator will be expected to operate equipment in a manner designed to prolong the equipment life ...

Ambler Metals LLC

Equipment Operator

Ambler, AK · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

The equipment operator maintains site roads, unloads aircraft and completes dirt work as needed. The operator will be expected to operate equipment in a manner designed to prolong the equipment life ...

Ambler Metals LLC

Equipment Operator

Ambler, AK · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

The equipment operator maintains site roads, unloads aircraft and completes dirt work as needed. The operator will be expected to operate equipment in a manner designed to prolong the equipment life ...

Waste Connections Inc

Equipment Operator

Central, AK · On-site

$29/hr

Operating a forklift and baler. * Buying and sorting out materials from customers. * Greeting ... Ability to safety operate equipment on site (forklift, skidsteer, baler) * Ability to provide good ...

Akima, LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining material handling equipment (MHE) and construction-type machinery in support of Army equipment turn-in operations. This role ...

Colas

QAP Equipment Operator

Anchorage, AK · On-site

QAP Equipment Operator Company: COLASKA Job Location: ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, USA Type of Contract: Seasonal Posting Start Date: 8/26/26 Subsidiary: COLASKA QAP is one of the companies within Colaska Inc ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Alaska

Equipment Operator information

See Alaska salary details

$14

$23

$34

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Alaska is $23.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $26.92 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.
More about Equipment Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska?

For Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska look for?

The top searched job categories for Equipment Operator jobs in Alaska are:

What cities in Alaska are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Alaska with the most Equipment Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in AK?

For Equipment Operator jobs in AK, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Alaska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,840 per year, or $24 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Ambler Metals

On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking Alaska-based individuals to support camp operations at our remote Bornite Camp. The equipment operator maintains site roads, unloads aircraft and completes dirt work as needed. The operator will be expected to operate equipment in a manner designed to prolong the equipment life, ensure the safety of surrounding personnel, and with minimal impact on landscape.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Safety

  • Exercise stop-work authority when necessary
  • Complete Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and risk assessments for each job
  • Operate equipment in safe and professional manner
  • Comply with on-site safety programs

Fleet

  • Safely operate equipment
  • Conduct and record daily vehicle pre-use inspections
  • Clean, lubricate (grease) and fuel equipment daily, following manufacturer's recommendation
  • Conduct fuel transfer operations following company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Load/unload aircraft under the direction of the loadmaster or pilot
  • Promptly report all safety and mechanical defects to mechanical team
  • Maintain roads and airstrips per pre-approved plan

Communication

  • Report all safety, environmental and security incidents to site management immediately
  • Provide the mechanical team daily equipment logs. Report equipment deficiencies and need for repairs in a timely manner.

QUALFICATIONS

Education and training

  • Valid driver's license. (Alaska residents >90 days must have a valid Alaska driver license) required
  • Formal heavy equipment operator training or certification preferred
  • HAZWOPER training preferred, but not required

Experience and Skills

Level 1

  • At least one year professionally operating heavy equipment with air brakes as well as skidsteers (or equivalent)

Level 2

  • At least three years professionally operating heavy equipment with a preference for experience with the following: dozers, loaders, graders, excavators and telehandlers

Level 3

  • At least five years professionally operating heavy equipment with a preference for experience with the following: dozers, loaders, graders, excavators and telehandlers
  • At least one year working at a management or foreman level supervising heavy equipment operation

All Levels

  • Knowledge of road construction and maintenance techniques
  • Skill in troubleshooting, performing preventive maintenance and repairs on facilities, communications systems and equipment
  • Ability to work effectively in a team setting
  • Ability to be flexible and adaptable to change
  • Ability to take initiative in the case of an emergency
  • Ability to follow instructions effectively and in a timely manner
  • Ability to work for long periods in a remote location
  • Ability to operate manual transmissions
  • Ability to operate air brakes
  • Ability to perform fine grading and finishing, sloping and banking, backfilling, demolition, ditching, excavating, and stockpiling
  • Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Ability to operate heavy machinery for prolonged periods

This is a seasonal position, expected to work April to October, with a rotational schedule.

Apply