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Equipment Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different types of heavy equipment such as Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers and Volvo front end ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different types of heavy equipment such as Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers and Volvo front end ...

BSI Waste

Equipment Operator

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$18/hr

City Salvage & Recycling is looking to hire an equipment operator. Applicant MUST have experience running equipment. Applicant will primarily be running a wheel loader. The machines that will be ...

Team Fishel

Equipment Operator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

The purpose of an Equipment Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time and within the customer specifications for quality, and other work as needed.

BMC CONTRACTING LLC

Equipment Operator

Mount Sterling, KY

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Mt. Sterling, KY Company: BMC Contracting, LLC Job Type: Full-Time Hours: 40-60 hours per week (overtime available) Pay: Based on experience BMC Contracting, LLC is ...

BMC CONTRACTING LLC

Equipment Operator

Mount Sterling, KY

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Mt. Sterling, KY Company: BMC Contracting, LLC Job Type: Full-Time Hours: 40-60 hours per week (overtime available) Pay: Based on experience BMC Contracting, LLC is ...

BMC Contracting

Equipment Operator

Mount Sterling, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Mt. Sterling, KY Company: BMC Contracting, LLC Job Type: Full-Time Hours: 40-60 hours per week (overtime available) Pay: Based on experience BMC Contracting, LLC is ...

CRH

Equipment Operator

Hagerhill, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Equipment Operator AMAT Paintsville, Kentucky, United States Job ID: 524188 Headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky, the Mountain Companies (comprised of Mountain Enterprises, Mountain Materials, and ...

CRH

Equipment Operator

Paintsville, KY

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator, Bulldozer/Push Dozer Operator, Loader Operator, Rock Truck, Skid steer and Excavator. THIS IS A UNION POSITION - SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT WILL BECOME A MEMBER OF THE UNITED ...

Arrow Electric Co LLC

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Position Summary The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of construction equipment used in roadway electrical infrastructure, traffic signal installations, lighting ...

Anoka County, MN

Equipment Operator

Highway, KY · On-site

$27.56 - $37.20/hr

As an Equipment Operator, you'll play a key role in supporting that mission by helping to maintain safe and reliable roadways year-round. In this position, you will operate motorized and heavy ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which focuses on the operation of heavy equipment utilized in construction projects. We are hiring for ...

Nobull Energy LLC

Equipment Operator

Cynthiana, KY · On-site

$24 - $54/hr

This position is responsible for operating heavy equipment to support site preparation, grading, trenching, material handling, and other construction activities on utility-scale projects. Candidates ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which focuses on the operation of heavy equipment utilized in construction projects. We are hiring for ...

LPX Group

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Purpose The Heavy Equipment Operator position is responsible for safely performing skilled work which focuses on the operation of heavy equipment utilized in construction projects. We are hiring for ...

Liberty Tire Recycling

Equipment Operator

Marion, KY · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you'll be operating a range of heavy machinery, including skid steer, end loaders, excavators, and dozers. This position requires working in noisy environments with ...

Yusen Logistics

Equipment Operator

Louisville, KY

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

... equipment • Sorts, bales, weighs, loads, and recycles materials based on customer specifications * conducting daily cycle counts * researching inventory discrepancies * Machine Operator l-Cycle ...

Greif, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Florence, KY · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Job Requisition #: 035001 Equipment Operator (Open) ROLE OVERVIEW: Under direct supervision, performs entry-level routine activities associated with various types of assembly machine operation and/or ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Equipment Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Kentucky is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.73 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Equipment Operator job openings:

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

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

Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 89% Full Time, 3% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,195 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Bowling Green, KY

SA Recycling
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 91 rated recycling and waste

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Recommended by parents

Learn more about SA Recyclingexternal

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

SA Recycling, a world leader in the metals recycling and processing industry, is actively looking for a diligent, reliable and talented individual to join our team as a Equipment Operator. As a Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of different types of heavy equipment such as Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers and Volvo front end loaders to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move scrap metal and other materials around the recycling yard.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Working hours are from 7:00am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday, with overtime and Saturdays as needed.

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Growth opportunities and promotions from within
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE
  • Advancement Opportunities

Responsibilities of an Equipment Operator         

  • Preform pre- and post- operations inspections of assigned equipment according to Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors, review cameras, and safety features are clean and operable.
  • Continuously check the condition of the equipment to ensure it is always operationally ready to minimize production downtime.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting abilities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Safe and efficient operations of the assigned machine to move vehicles for decommissioning, debris to proper storage site, and the loading of trucks and/or train cars.
  • Aid in yard organization to help meet targeted production goals.
  • Preform routine maintenance functions of assigned machine (fueling, lubricating, and cleaning).
  • Perform daily loader inspections and report any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Equipment Operator

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 1 years’ experience running Volvo front end loaders and/or Liebherr or Sennebogen material handlers in the scrap metal, waste, or demolition industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

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