1

Equipment Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/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 ...

Equipment Operator

Branchville, VA

$18 - $24.50/hr

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

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 ...

Equipment Operator

Branchville, VA

$18 - $24.50/hr

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

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA

$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 ...

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 ...

Equipment Operator

Branchville, VA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

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

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA

$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 ...

Equipment Operator

New Castle, VA

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

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 all ...

Equipment Operator

Branchville, VA · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

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

Equipment Operator

Branchville, VA

$18 - $24.50/hr

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

Equipment Operator

Roanoke, VA

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

An Equipment Operator must have experience in operating commercial mowers, excavators, chippers, and jarraffs. A CDL License Class A or B is a plus. Prior professional equipment operating experience ...

The equipment operator will be responsible for operating various pieces of equipment in the quarry, including the water truck, haul truck, dozers, loaders, and excavators. Midlothian Quarry ...

The equipment operator will be responsible for operating various pieces of equipment in the quarry, including the water truck, haul truck, dozers, loaders, and excavators. Midlothian Quarry ...

Equipment Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$28 - $34/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's specifications for quality, and other work as needed.

Equipment Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $24/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 customers' specifications for quality, and other work as needed.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Equipment Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Virginia is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Equipment operators, such as heavy equipment or crane operators, can earn around $3,000 or more per month with experience and proper certification. Many of these roles require on-the-job training, technical skills, and safety certifications but do not necessarily require a college degree.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Equipment operators in specialized fields such as construction, mining, or oil and gas often earn $700 or more per day, especially with experience, certifications, and the ability to work in remote or high-risk environments. These roles typically require heavy machinery skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership or licensing.

Can I operate heavy equipment without a CDL?

Equipment operators typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate certain types of heavy equipment, especially those that involve driving on public roads or transporting materials. However, for many construction or industrial equipment, a state-issued operator certification or training may suffice, and a CDL is not always required. Requirements vary by state and the specific equipment being used.

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 equipment operators make the most money?

Equipment operators in specialized fields such as crane, pipeline, or heavy construction often earn higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved. Operators with certifications, extensive experience, and skills in operating advanced machinery like cranes or bulldozers tend to have higher earning potential. Salary can also vary based on industry demand and geographic location.

What are Equipment Operators?

Equipment Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating heavy machinery and vehicles used in construction, mining, roadwork, and other industries. Their role involves safely controlling equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, loaders, and excavators to move materials, dig foundations, and perform other tasks essential to a project's success. Equipment Operators must understand how to maintain their machines, follow safety protocols, and sometimes read blueprints or plans. The job requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work in various weather conditions.

What Is an Equipment Operator?

An equipment operator, or heavy equipment operator, is a construction worker who is trained to use heavy construction machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, or backhoes. As an equipment operator, your responsibilities and duties vary, depending on the machine you operate. All jobs require that you operate the equipment safely and according to the directions of the site supervisor. Heavy equipment operators are familiar with the care and basic maintenance of their machines, as well as their abilities and limitations. Safety is your first priority. You must be able to work in concert with the rest of the operators and workers to meet project deadlines.

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 do equipment operators do?

Equipment operators operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes to move materials, prepare sites, and assist in construction or maintenance projects. They are responsible for ensuring safety, following operational procedures, and maintaining their equipment, often requiring certification and knowledge of safety protocols.
What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Equipment Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,882 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Martin Marietta Materials

Martinsville, VA • On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

352nd of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Summary:

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 efficiently operating a variety of off-road vehicles and heavy equipment utilized in Mining. The equipment operator will be responsible for operating various pieces of equipment in the quarry, including the water truck, haul truck, dozers, loaders, and excavators.andnbsp;

A typical day for a(n) Equipment Operator may include:

  • Operating a variety of off-road vehicles and heavy equipment within the company guidelines and safety standards
  • Completing daily pre and post inspection of working areas and ensures they are equipped with adequate berms and roadways
  • Performing pre-shift safety inspection on equipment and reports needed repairs to the supervisor
  • Ensuring safe operations around conveyors, surge piles and crushers
  • Performing daily preventative maintenance - tire pressure, oil, grease, diesel fuel, hoses for leaks and all moving parts for proper function
  • Maintaining safe traffic flow throughout the site
  • Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed
  • Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor

You may be a good fit if you:

  • Possess a High School Diploma, GED or equivalent experience to perform the responsibilities associated with this position
  • Have experience in the maintenance and operation of mobile equipment, construction equipment and/or equipment used processing plants
  • Have experience in operation and maintenance of off-road vehicles and heavy equipment (preferred)
Employment Type: Full-Time

What Martin Marietta Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Martin Marietta logo

About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994