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Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services, you'll: * Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines * Safeguard equipment ...

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Responsibilities What You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As anEquipment Operator at Lewis Services, you'll: * Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines * Safeguard ...

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

What You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services, you'll: * Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines * Safeguard equipment and ensure ...

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services, you'll: * Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines * Safeguard equipment ...

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental Status: Full-time/Non-Exempt Reports to: Field Supervisor Action Environmental is a full-service ...

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental Status: Full-time/Non-Exempt Reports to: Field Supervisor Action Environmental is a full-service ...

Equipment Operator Department: Gas/Water/Wastewater Operations Employment Type: Full Time Location: 10th Avenue Service Center Reporting To: GWWW Field Superintendent Compensation: Starting Pay $27 ...

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools • Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory ...

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools • Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory ...

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Equipment operators are responsible for the operation and maintenance of all types of construction machinery including, but not limited to, track loaders, rubber tire loaders, track backhoes, rubber ...

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Equipment operators are responsible for the operation and maintenance of all types of construction machinery including, but not limited to, track loaders, rubber tire loaders, track backhoes, rubber ...

Equipment Operator

Hartselle, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Operate construction and power equipment including digger trucks, backhoes, man-lifts, dump trucks, road graters, front-end loaders, hydraulic excavators, skid steers, and mechanized brooms. Apply ...

As Equipment Operator you must demonstrate safe operation of assigned equipment based on changing operating conditions. Travel expectations: Projects are located throughout the U.S. Travel is on a ...

As Equipment Operator you must demonstrate safe operation of assigned equipment based on changing operating conditions. Travel expectations: Projects are located throughout the U.S. Travel is on a ...

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in Lawrenceburg, KY. You will be responsible for operating and maintaining various electrical construction equipment at job ...

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Madison, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in Lawrenceburg, KY. You will be responsible for operating and maintaining various electrical construction equipment at job ...

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North Alabama Region to help crush and load material. Must have a working cell phone, good driving record and ...

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North Alabama Region to help crush and load material. Must have a working cell phone, good driving record and ...

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Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Decatur, AL is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $23.41 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 Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Equipment Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Decatur, AL 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 $43,385 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Equipment Operator

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

OverviewJoin a Company That Grows People

At Lewis, we're not just trimming trees - we're building a future. As the second-largest utility vegetation management company in North America and a proud employee-owned business, we believe every person on our team matters. When you join Lewis, you're not just taking a job - you're investing in your future.

Why You'll Love It Here
  • Experience the great outdoors while working in nature, not stuck behind a desk! 
  • Elevate your career with us - we prioritize training and internal promotions! 
  • Join a vibrant team that champions safety, values your feedback, and fosters a strong sense of camaraderie! 
  • Shape your future with us through our fantastic Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)!
ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do as an Equipment Operator

As anEquipment Operatorat Lewis Services, you'll: 

  • Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines
  • Safeguard equipment and ensure proper maintenance and inspection
  • Identify and mark hazards in the work area
  • Promote safety for colleagues and the public
  • Maintain tools, equipment, and work vehicles
  • Report equipment issues and incidents immediately
  • Support customer and public relations
  • Drive and operate trucks and other assigned equipment
  • Participate in job briefings and site preparation
  • Remove vegetation and debris (e.g., lifting logs, dragging brush)
  • Operate chainsaws and similar equipment after demonstrating proficiency
  • Load/unload trucks and machinery
  • Hike difficult terrain while carrying tools and equipment
  • Apply herbicide in compliance with regulations
  • Set up traffic control zones and direct traffic
  • Travel frequently, including overnight stays
  • Perform other related duties as assigned
Qualifications

What You Bring:

  • Understanding of policies and procedures for Equipment Operators
  • Relevant licenses/certifications to operate heavy equipment
  • General knowledge of trees and arboriculture techniques (if involved in tree work)
  • Completion of Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge Certification
  • Basic knowledge of electrical circuits and ability to read circuit maps
  • Herbicide applicator certification and licensing
  • Valid driver's license, CDL, and medical certification (as required)
  • CPR and First Aid certification (provided by Lewis)
  • Compliance with all applicable laws

Physical Demands 

Ability to: 

  • Lift up to 50 lbs. to shoulder height
  • Push or pull a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Walk or hike up to one mile on uneven terrain
  • Climb onto and off of equipment
  • Endure extreme climate conditions
  • Hear, speak, see, and communicate effectively
  • Operate two-handed tools and equipment

Continuously - Operating equipment, handling/grasping, repetitive movementsFrequently - SittingOccasionally - Lifting/carrying, pushing/pulling, driving, climbing, stooping/kneeling, reaching, walking, standingNever - Tree ascending/descending, confined spaces

Environmental Conditions

Continuously - Outdoor workFrequently - Temperature extremesOccasionally - Noise levelsRarely - Hazardous materials, air quality issuesNever - Confined spaces

Comments: Conditions vary by region. PPE required per OSHA and ANSI standards.

Tools & Equipment 

Equipment may include: 

  • Aerial lift trucks, dump trucks, ATVs
  • Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, chipper
  • Blowers, pruners, rakes, winches, ropes
  • Herbicide applicators, fuel, cones, signs
  • Communication devices, tablet computers
  • Manual and hydraulic tools

What We Offer Non-Union Benefits: 

  • Competitive pay 
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Paid training and certifications
  • Health, dental, vision & HSA options
  • 401(k) +
  • Paid time off and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
People Promise

Our People Promise

Our commitment to Our People is key to the success of our business.  We respect the differences between us, and we leverage those differences to create an environment where all employees feel welcome and fairly treated.  We seek the best solutions possible by attracting and engaging a diverse workforce where all perspectives are sought out and valued. 

Lewis Tree Service is an equal employment opportunity employer committed to providing equal opportunity for both applicants and employees. Lewis Tree Service prohibits unlawful discrimination or harassment of employees and applicants based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age (40+), religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic, all employment decisions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and conditions of employment. Lewis Tree Service's practices and policies are administered under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Spanish Posting

Unase a una empresa que fomenta el crecimiento de las personas 

En Lewis, no solo podamos arboles, construimos un futuro. Como la segunda empresa de mayor tamano de gestion de servicios y vegetacion en Norteamerica y una orgullosa empresa propiedad de sus empleados, creemos que cada persona de nuestro equipo es importante. Cuando se incorpora a Lewis, no solo comienza un trabajo, invierte en su futuro. 

Por que le encantara trabajar aqui 

  • Experimente un maravilloso entorno al aire libre mientras trabaja en la naturaleza, no quede atrapado detras de un escritorio! 
  • Eleve su carrera profesional con nosotros. Priorizamos la capacitacion y las promociones internas! 
  • Unase a un equipo vibrante que es pionero en seguridad, valora su opinion y fomenta un fuerte sentido de la camaraderia! 
  • Forme su futuro con nosotros a traves de nuestro fantastico Plan de Propiedad de Acciones para Empleados (ESOP)!

Sus funciones como Operador de Maquinaria 

 Comooperador de maquinaria en Lewis Services, usted tendra las siguientes funciones:

  • Operar maquinaria pesada segun la politica de Lewis y las pautas del fabricante 
  • Proteger la maquinaria y garantizar el mantenimiento y la inspeccion adecuada 
  • Identificar y marcar los peligros en el area de trabajo 
  • Promover la seguridad de los colegas y del publico 
  • Mantener las herramientas, maquinarias y vehiculos de trabajo 
  • Informar de inmediato los problemas e incidentes con la maquinaria 
  • Apoyar las relaciones con los clientes y el publico 
  • Conducir y operar camiones, y otras maquinarias asignadas 
  • Participar en reuniones informativas sobre el trabajo y la preparacion del sitio. 
  • Retirar la vegetacion y los escombros (p.ej., levantar troncos o arrastrar maleza). 
  • Operar motosierras y equipos similares despues de demostrar la destreza 
  • Cargar/descargar camiones y maquinaria 
  • Caminar en terrenos dificiles mientras con herramientas y equipos 
  • Aplicar herbicida en cumplimiento de las reglamentaciones 
  • Establecer zonas de control de trafico y dirigir el trafico 
  • Viajar con frecuencia, incluidos pernoctes 
  • Realizar otras tareas relacionadas asignadas 

Lo que usted aporta: 

  • Comprension de las politicas y procedimientos para los operadores de maquinaria 
  • Licencias/certificaciones pertinentes para operar maquinaria pesada 
  • Conocimientos generales sobre arboles y tecnicas de arboricultura (si se trabaja con arboles) 
  • Obtencion de la certificacion de conocimientos tecnicos para operador de maquinaria 
  • Conocimientos basicos de circuitos electricos y capacidad para leer mapas de circuitos 
  • Certificacion y licencia de aplicador de herbicida 
  • Licencia de conducir valida, CDL y certificacion medica (segun se requiera) 
  • Certificacion en RCP y primeros auxilios (proporcionado por Lewis) 
  • Cumplimiento de todas las leyes aplicables 

Demandas fisicas 

Capacidad para las siguientes actividades:

  • Levantar 50 libras hasta la altura de los hombros. 
  • Empujar o tirar un minimo de 50 libras. 
  • Caminar hasta una milla por terrenos irregulares. 
  • Subir y bajar del equipo. 
  • Soportar condiciones climaticas extremas. 
  • Escuchar, hablar, ver y comunicarse de manera efectiva. 
  • Operar herramientas y equipos con las dos manos. 

De forma continua: operar maquinaria, manipular/agarrar, movimientos repetitivos Con frecuencia: estar sentado En ocasiones: levantar/transportar, empujar/tirar, conducir, trepar, detenerse/arrodillarse, estirarse, caminar, estar de pie Nunca: subir/bajar de arboles, espacios confinados 

 

Condiciones ambientales 

 

De forma continua: trabajo en el exterior Con frecuencia: temperaturas extremas En ocasiones: niveles de ruido Rara vez: materiales peligrosos, problemas de calidad del aire Nunca: espacios confinados 

Comentarios:Las condiciones varian por region. EPP requerido por las normas de la Administracion de Seguridad y Salud Ocupacional (OSHA) y el Instituto Nacional Estadounidense de Estandares (ANSI). 

Herramientas y equipos 

Los equipos pueden incluir lo siguiente: 

  • Camiones con plataforma aerea, camiones volquete, vehiculos todo terreno 
  • Motosierras, sierras de pertiga, sierras de mano, astilladoras 
  • Sopladores, podadoras, rastrillos, cabrestantes, cuerdas 
  • Aplicadores de herbicidas, combustible, conos, senales 
  • Dispositivos de comunicacion, tabletas, computadoras 
  • Herramientas manuales e hidraulicas 

Lo que ofrecemos 

Beneficios no sindicales: 

  • Pago competitivo
  • Plan de Propiedad de Acciones para Empleados (ESOP) 
  • Capacitacion y certificaciones de la industria remuneradas 
  • Opciones de salud, dental, de la vision y HSA 
  • 401(k) + 
  • Tiempo libre remunerado y Programa de Asistencia al Empleado (EAP) 

Compromiso con nuestra gente 

El compromiso con nuestra gente es la clave del exito de nuestro negocio. Respetamos las diferencias entre nosotros, y aprovechamos esas diferencias para crear un entorno donde todos los empleados se sientan bienvenidos y tratados con justicia. Buscamos las mejores soluciones posibles al atraer e involucrar a una fuerza laboral diversa donde se busquen y valoren todas las perspectivas. 

Lewis Tree Service es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades de empleo y se compromete a brindar igualdad de oportunidades tanto a los candidatos como a los empleados. Lewis Tree Service prohibe la discriminacion ilegal o el acoso de empleados y candidatos por motivos de raza, credo, color, nacionalidad, sexo, edad (mas de 40 anos), religion, discapacidad, estado civil, orientacion sexual, informacion genetica, estado de ciudadania, estado de veterano o cualquier otra caracteristica legalmente protegida. 

Employment Type: FULL_TIME