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Equipment Operator Jobs in Calhoun, GA (NOW HIRING)

Inspects equipment prior to use to ensure that it is in proper operating condition; checks brakes, mirrors, lights, air pressure, etc. Performs equipment maintenance duties such as lubricating ...

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Equipment Operator information

See Calhoun, GA salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Calhoun, GA is $19.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $22.07 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Calhoun, GA?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Calhoun, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Calhoun, GA?

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

What job categories do people searching Equipment Operator jobs in Calhoun, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Equipment Operator jobs in Calhoun, GA are:

What cities near Calhoun, GA are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Calhoun, GA with the most Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Calhoun, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,850 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$33K - $43K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description PURPOSE OF CLASSIFICATION The purpose of this classification is to operate a variety of construction and maintenance equipment necessary for the accomplishment of various road and infrastructure maintenance and repair projects. *OPEN UNTIL FILLED* Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification.

Other duties may be required and assigned. Operates a variety of light equipment, machinery, and tools as necessary to support essential functions, which may include Turf Mowers (both push and ride), Wood Chipper, High Pressure Pipe Jetter, both Base and/or Asphalt Rollers, Skid Steer, Motorized Broom. Assist with a variety of tasks in road and right-of-way construction and maintenance; patches and repairs roads; maintains rights-of-way by mowing and edging grass, trimming trees and shrubbery, chipping work, planting seed, and fertilizing; replaces or installs traffic control devices, such as signs, posts, and guard rails; lays out and/or paints traffic control pavement markings.

Inspects equipment prior to use to ensure that it is in proper operating condition; checks brakes, mirrors, lights, air pressure, etc. Performs equipment maintenance duties such as lubricating, greasing, and checking belts, hoses, air pressure, oil, gas and other fluids. Cleans and makes minor adjustments and repairs to equipment.

Cleans shop or work areas; monitors equipment operations to maintain efficiency and safety; reports faulty equipment. Assists with road and drainage maintenance activities. Mows grass on county rights-of-way.

Clears and chips brush; removes overhanging tree limbs. Seals cracks and patches potholes. Delivers supplies, equipment, and personnel to and from work sites.

Assists with snow removal operations. Collects litter from right-of-way. Installs driveway culverts.

Operates a variety of hand and power tools. Flags traffic at work sites. Sets up safety cones, barricades, barrels, and signs; assists in maneuvering equipment within work sites.

Follows safety procedures, utilizes safety equipment, and monitors work environment to ensure the safety of other employees and the public. Communicates with supervisor, employees, other departments, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems. Performs related duties.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS Performs other related duties as required. Typical Qualifications KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION Knowledge of county policies, procedures, and safety rules and regulations. Skill in operating equipment such as a tractor, mower, backhoe, dump truck, jack hammer, and other related hand-held tools and construction equipment.

Skill in operating power tools such as chain saws and weed eaters. Skill in the use of tools such as a shovel, pick and rake. Skill in defensive driving techniques.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS The Road Superintendent and/or Deputy Road Superintendent assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor checks (including spot-checks) completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS High school diploma or GED; one year of experience in equipment operation in the construction and maintenance of roads; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver's license. Supplemental Information PERFORMANCE APTITUDES Data Utilization: Requires the ability to calculate and/or tabulate data. Includes performing subsequent actions in relation to these computational operations.

Human Interaction: Requires the ability to exchange information for the purpose of clarifying details within well established policies, procedures and standards. Equipment, Machinery, Tools, and Materials Utilization: Requires the ability to operate, maneuver and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions. Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference and descriptive data and information.

Mathematical Aptitude: Requires the ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Functional Reasoning: Requires the ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagrammatic form. Involves semi-routine standardized work with some latitude for independent judgment concerning choices of action.

Situational Reasoning: Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving evaluation of information against measurable or verifiable criteria. ADA COMPLIANCE Physical Ability: Tasks require the regular and sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and that generally involves lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and materials (20-50 pounds). Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, depth, and visual cues or signals.

Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally. Environmental Factors: Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes, temperature and noise extremes, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, traffic hazards, or toxic agents. Whitfield County, Georgia is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.