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Equipment Operator Jobs in Lexington, SC (NOW HIRING)

Palmetto Corp

Equipment Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

An equipment operator performs the hands-on aspect of using equipment and applying mechanical skill sets to operate a variety of machinery. These machines may include: scrapers, bulldozers, motor ...

Commercial Metals Company

Equipment Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and ...

Commercial Metals Company

Equipment Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and ...

New

Amteck, LLC

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Columbia, SC

$17.50 - $24/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 ...

PPC Partners

Equipment Operator II

West Columbia, SC · On-site

The Equipment Operator II is responsible for safely operating and maintaining heavy machinery on various job sites. This role supports the completion of field projects by executing tasks in alignment ...

CONTOUR

Contour Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

All operators are required to be safe and be responsible for their assigned equipment. We are 100% SC Certified Drug Free Workplace RESPONSIBILITIES To operate equipment safely, and efficiently while ...

Phillips, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

This position is responsible for operating several types of construction equipment such as dump trucks, bulldozers, front end loaders, graders, tracked excavators or water trucks to excavate, move ...

City of Columbia

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, LEAD

Columbia, SC · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

... not operating the concrete truck; Uses hand and power tools in various manual tasks as required; Inspects equipment to ensure proper and safe working condition; reports defects or required ...

Phillips, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

This position is responsible for operating several types of construction equipment such as dump trucks, bulldozers, front end loaders, graders, tracked excavators or water trucks to excavate, move ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Lexington, SC

Equipment Operator information

See Lexington, SC salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Lexington, SC is $19.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.39 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.
More about Equipment Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Lexington, SC?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Lexington, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Lexington, SC?

For Equipment Operator jobs in Lexington, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Equipment Operator jobs in Lexington, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Equipment Operator jobs in Lexington, SC are:

What cities near Lexington, SC are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Lexington, SC with the most Equipment Operator job openings:

Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Lexington, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,613 per year, or $19 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Palmetto Corp

Columbia, SC • On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Palmetto Corp rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Application Instructions
Thank you for your interest in our company. Please review the Position Description and Requirements below to ensure that you possess the necessary qualifications. Then select Apply Now. You will be redirected to another screen with some additional tasks. Be sure to complete all necessary tasks prior to submitting your application. We look forward to evaluating your application.
Position Description
Job Summary: An equipment operator performs the hands-on aspect of using equipment and applying mechanical skill sets to operate a variety of machinery. These machines may include: scrapers, bulldozers, motor graders, front-end loaders, backhoes, paving machines, rollers, broom tractors, transfer vehicles, trackhoes, and off-road dump trucks.
Assignment to this position presumes the operation of such equipment as a regular assignment. Operators may assist in loading and unloading of trucks and using hand tools as related to the project.
May function as a lead worker, on a limited basis.
Essential Functions, skills and abilities:
  • Operate heavy, motorized equipment.
  • Perform a variety of skilled construction and maintenance tasks.
  • Perform a variety of manual tasks for extended periods in unfavorable weather conditions.
  • Work independently in the absence of supervision.
  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Ensure adherence to safe work practices.
  • Follow safety regulations and remove and minimize potential hazards.
  • Perform routine maintenance and ensure any needed repairs are made.
  • Report complex mechanical problems for shop repairs.

Position Requirements
Working Conditions:
  • Must travel from site to site.
  • Exposure to Dust
  • Loud Noises
  • Work in inclement weather conditions.

Physical Condition:
  • Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities such as: heavy lifting and climbing, operating motorized equipment and vehicles, work in confined spaces, work at heights, work around heavy construction equipment.

Equal Opportunity Employer
PALMETTO CORP IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. It is PALMETTO CORP's policy to assure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, religion, sex, color, national origin, age or disability. Such action shall include: employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training. All such decisions are based on (1) individual merit, qualifications, and competence as they relate to the particular position, and (2) promotion of the principle of equal employment opportunity. All current employees are encouraged to refer minority and women recruits for employment whenever hiring opportunities are available.

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