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Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Boody, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Maroa, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Decatur, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Bethany, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Clinton, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Argenta, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Dawson, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Bement, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Macon, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Beason, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Primary Duties and Accountabilities * Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL

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.
More about Equipment Operator jobs
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:
Equipment Operator jobs near you
Senior Reactor Operator

Senior Reactor Operator

Constellation Energy

Boody, IL

$159K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Constellation Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 74 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

  • During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 to $182,000.00 per year (depending on experience and past license status) including a 15% annual incentive bonus, an initial sign-on bonus, $10,000 bonus spread through training milestones, a comprehensive benefits package, and a 401k with employer matching on contributions.
  • After obtaining SRO license, Total compensation earnings eligibility from $191,000.00 per year, including a target 15% annual bonus, License Premium, as well as, extended hours pay at 1.5 times the base salary (expressed on hourly basis) involving mandated operation shift coverage. 

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be offered to those who meet the conditions in the Company&rsquos policy.

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Clinton Nuclear Power Sation in Clinton, IL.

Primary Purpose of Position

The primary purpose of this position is to train and prepare to perform the duties of an Operations Shift Supervisor who holds a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO)License. Upon completion of training the candidate will be fully licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to supervise the licensed activities of licensed reactor operators in the reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally.

Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which includes classroom training and examination, along with on-the-job training and evaluation.
  • Successfully complete all phases of training to obtain an SRO license in order to perform the duties of an Operations Shift Supervisor.
  • Perform other job assignments and duties as directed by management or pursuant to company policy, including but not limited to emergency response, departmental coverage, call outs, and support of outage activities in positions outside the department.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma/GED
  • Meet or exceed one of the following:
    • 1 year Reactor Operator license at a comparable facility or 1.5 years at a noncomparable facility. Comparable is PWR to PWR or BWR to BWR and noncomparable is PWR to BWR or BWR to PWR.
    • 1.5 years or more in a position equivalent to Reactor Operator (or Supervisor) at a military reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.
    • Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator or Staff member, Supervisor or Manager in work control, operations, engineering, outage management, maintenance, radiation protection, chemistry, or accredited training at a comparable (BWR or PWR) facility. Managerial, staff engineer, or supervisor experience at a noncomparable plant may be credited on a 1.5:1.0 basis (i.e., over 2.25 years required for noncomparable facility), and 3 years required for a nontraditional degree.
    • Current or previous SRO Instructor certification and 4 years experience at a comparable facility or 6 years experience at a non-comparable facility.
  • Maintain minimum access or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

What Constellation Energy employees say

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