ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

Our Southeast Environmental business is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator-Environmental & Construction Field Technician/Crew Member to join their field team in Decatur, AL. As a Technician ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Southeast Environmental business is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator-Environmental & Construction Field Technician/Crew Member to join their field team in Decatur, AL. As a Technician ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

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.
More about Equipment Operator jobs
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:
Equipment Operator jobs near you
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.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

GHD

Decatur, AL

Other

Posted 25 days ago

GHD rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

There's no pledge more important than the one we make to look after our environment, and we're committed to helping you do exactly that.

Join us as we strive to ensure a sustainable future for our communities and the world we live in.  
Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and environmental specialists, all working together to leave this world better than we found it.

Who are we looking for?   

Our Southeast Environmental business is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator-Environmental & Construction Field Technician/Crew Member to join their field team in Decatur, AL. As a Technician / Crew Member, you will support a variety of remediation, construction, and Operation & Maintenance projects throughout the Southeast region.

Bring your curiosity and passion to the technical challenges we solve at GHD. Then see how everyone gets behind you. 

With commitment, there's no idea too big, no dream too far. We strive to create opportunity for all. Giving you leading training and development programs to accelerate your growth.  
Come and see where your career can take you and the impact your commitment can make.
Let's solve the big problems together. 
Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of work and will see you involved in: 

  • Health and Safety Stewardship 
  • Pump maintenance, installation and troubleshooting
  • Equipment Operation and maintenance
  • Groundwater monitoring 
  • Data Collection and Record keeping
  • Perform soil and groundwater sampling
  • Remediation system Operations and Maintenance
  • Support clients during emergency response and remediation
  • Jobsite housekeeping

What you will bring to the team:

  • High School Diploma/GED required
  • Up to 3 years of environmental and or construction experience preferred
  • Heavy Equipment operation preferred
  • Ability and willingness to perform field work 100% of the time
  • Ability and willingness to travel, including some overnights, as needed
  • Valid driver's license: CDL Class A preferred (or must be able to obtain CDL)
  • OSHA 40hr HAZWOPER training a plus

Take on some of the world's toughest challenges - with everyone at GHD backing you every step of the way.
We'll give you control over your career, empower you to find innovative solutions and help you create a lasting impact.

See where your commitment could take you with GHD.

As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or veteran status.

#LI-RM1

What GHD employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

GHD logo

About GHD

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanisation. GHD is a global professional services company that is a leader in engineering, construction and architectural expertise. Established in 1928, we remain wholly owned by our people. We are 10,000+ diverse and skilled individuals, yet we are proudly 'One GHD' across more than 200 offices, spanning five continents - Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America, and the Pacific region. Delivering extraordinary social and economic outcomes, we are passionate about building lasting relationships with our partners and clients.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waterloo, ON, CA

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All GHD Jobs

Apply