1

Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Proficiency in operating heavy equipment. * Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Effective communication and organizational ...

Proficiency in operating heavy equipment. * Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Effective communication and organizational ...

Good skills in operating vehicles and equipment * Ability to perform multiple duties as assigned * High School Diploma or equivalent experience required * Valid driver's license required Pay Range ...

Good skills in operating vehicles and equipment * Ability to perform multiple duties as assigned * High School Diploma or equivalent experience required * Valid driver's license required Pay Range ...

Good skills in operating vehicles and equipment * Ability to perform multiple duties as assigned * High School Diploma or equivalent experience required * Valid driver's license required Pay Range ...

Mechanical equipment operating experience preferred. Total Rewards Starting pay of $20.60/hr + overtime We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can ...

Mechanical equipment operating experience preferred. Total Rewards Starting pay of $20.60/hr + overtime We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards package that our U.S. colleagues and their families can ...

Forklift Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$19.50/hr

Operate standup/man up forklifts and other material handling equipment. * Ensure proper labeling ... Operated forklifts in the last 5 years. * Ability to perform basic navigation and data entry on a ...

Loader Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

LOADER OPERATOR Decatur, IL Your benefits * SES offers eligible team members comprehensive benefits ... Ensure equipment and company property is maintained in proper condition. * Have a general ...

Production Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

... and equipment - Installing parts in specified relationship to each other. - Stocking and setting up assigned workstation according to assigned documents. - Using hand and torque tools, presses ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$13

$21

$31

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Decatur, IL is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL? For Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Equipment Operator job openings:
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Heidelberg Materials

Decatur, IL • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Heidelberg Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

333rd of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

Line of Business: Other
Job Description
About Us
Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.
What We Offer
$25.00 to $27.00 per hour
401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions
Highly competitive benefits programs, including:
Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits
Health Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance
Paid Bonding Leave, 10 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave, and 10 Paid Holidays
Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled
What You'll Be Doing
  • Operate heavy equipment such as loaders, excavators, and bulldozers.
  • Perform routine maintenance and inspections on equipment.
  • Ensure safe and efficient operation of machinery.
  • Assist with loading and unloading materials.
  • Follow safety protocols and procedures at all times.

What Are We Looking For
  • Proficiency in operating heavy equipment.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Effective communication and organizational skills.
  • Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Conditions of Employment
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check.
  • Some positions require FMCSA regulated ongoing drug and alcohol testing.

Work Environment
  • Role operates primarily in environments where the conditions include moving mechanical equipment, inclement weather, heat, cold, humidity, and elevated noise level.

What Heidelberg Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom