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Equipment Operator Jobs in Manning, SC (NOW HIRING)

ES Integrated

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sumter, SC

Follow instructions for operating equipment and keeping records * Must be able to pass a background check * Pass pre-employment physical and possess a DOT medical card * Pass pre-employment and ...

ES Integrated

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sumter, SC · On-site

Follow instructions for operating equipment and keeping records * Must be able to pass a background check * Pass pre-employment physical and possess a DOT medical card * Pass pre-employment and ...

Pilgrim's

Operator Embrex

Sumter, SC

$19.45/hr

PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT(List any and all personal safety or health protection equipment and gear required by either regulatory or sanitary procedures) SAFETY FACTORS TO BE AWARE OF: Know how to use and ...

SFI South Carolina

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator

Manning, SC · On-site

$16/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for efficiently operating heavy equipment such as forklifts, clamp trucks, and pallet jacks to load, unload, and move materials within the warehouse environment.

SFI South Carolina

Forklift Operator

Manning, SC · On-site

$16/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for efficiently operating heavy equipment such as forklifts, clamp trucks, and pallet jacks to load, unload, and move materials within the warehouse environment.

EMCOR Group Inc

MOR PPM, Inc.

Pineville, SC · On-site

MOR PPM Inc. seeks an equipment operator located in Pineville, SC. This is a full-time regular position with an ongoing maintenance crew. Commercial job experience a plus, Bobcat and some equipment ...

SFI South Carolina

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Machine Operator

Manning, SC · On-site

$16/hr

Conduct routine inspections of machinery and equipment, applying mechanical knowledge to identify ... Machine Operator Experience: * Previous factory or manufacturing facility experience is highly ...

Autonomy Staffing

Production Operator

Sumter, SC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Polymerization Operator Location: Sumter, South Carolina Employment Type: Full-Time Pay: Starting ... Make corrective adjustments to equipment and utilities as directed by the shift supervisor to ...

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Equipment Operator information

See Manning, SC salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Manning, SC is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.22 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 popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Manning, SC?

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

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

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

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

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

Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Manning, SC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,011 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Sumter, SC • On-site

Thompson Construction Group, Inc.
See more jobs at Thompson Construction Group, Inc.external

$17 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate various types of power construction equipment to perform excavation, lifting, moving, and grading tasks in a safe and timely manner.

  • Perform duties related to operating specific classes of equipment, including loading and off-loading materials, reading survey stakes, verifying load weights, and following safety regulations.

  • Inspect equipment, perform minor repairs, and ensure safe operation before use.

Job description

Since its foundation in 1986, Thompson Construction Group, Inc. has grown from a small, local company into one of the largest privately held companies based in South Carolina. Our diverse services portfolio includes capital projects, power services, maintenance services, disaster recovery, hydro consulting and commercial construction. We believe in investing in our employees to help them reach their professional goals, as well as their personal goals. Thompson promotes a work environment that fosters learning, leadership, and development along with a safety culture that never waivers. Thompson is headquartered in Sumter, South Carolina with offices spanning the United States, primarily southeast and central United States.
Position Description
Operate several types of power construction equipment, to excavate, lift, move, and grade earth, fill materials, machines, products or supplies, erect structural and reinforcing steel, and pour concrete or other hard surface paving materials and do so in a safe and timely manner with the highest quality possible.
Job Responsibilities
There are several classes of Equipment Operator. The equipment and duties/responsibilities of each class of Equipment Operator is defined below:
Light Equipment Operator
  • Operates several types of power construction equipment such as:
    • Backhoe
    • Bobcat
    • Compactor (towed)
    • Elevator
    • Farm Tractor
    • Forklift (smooth surface, battery or propane powered, stand-up or sit-down)
    • Hand Truck
    • Scissor Lift
    • Power Broom
    • Water Wagon
  • Duties and responsibilities include:
    • Tow, drive, move and load or off-load material for construction purposes

Medium Equipment Operator
  • Operates several types of power construction equipment such as:
    • Bulldozer (less than D-6)
    • Compactor (self-propelled)
    • Forklift (rough terrain)
    • Front-End Loader (rubber tire, less than 1 yard bucket)
    • Truck (over 2 tons, dump, multi-axle)
  • Duties and responsibilities include:
    • Must be knowledgeable in OSHA regulations regarding excavation methods and practices, swing barricades and back up alarms.
    • Excavation equipment operators must have ability to read survey stakes for alignment and grading.
    • Drott operators must be able to verify load weights, understand standard hand signals, operate within equipment manufacturer's specified limits and be able to read and interpret load charts.

Heavy Equipment Operator
  • Operates several types of power construction equipment such as:
    • Batch plant
    • Backhoe (Track)
    • Bulldozer (D-6 and above)
    • Dragline
    • Drum Hoist (Exclusive of air electric tugger)
    • Front-End Loader (Track and rubber tire; one yard bucket and above)
    • Gradall
    • Motor Grader
    • Scraper
  • Duties and responsibilities include:
    • Excavate, move, and grade earth for construction purposes.
    • May direct workers engaged in placing blocks and outriggers on cranes.
    • Must be knowledgeable in OSHA regulations regarding excavation methods and practices, swing barricades and back up alarms.
    • Excavation equipment operators must have ability to read survey stakes for alignment and grading.

All Equipment Operators
  • Duties and Responsibilities include:
    • Move hand levers, adjust hand wheels and depress pedals to drive machines and control attachments such as trailers.
    • May maintain equipment using grease gun and oil can and inspect tires and fluid levels.
    • Fasten attachments; connect hydraulic hoses, belts and linkages.
    • May perform minor repairs.
    • May maintain radio contact with supervisor.
    • Inspect equipment on a daily basis to ensure safe operation before use.
    • Responsible for observing and complying with all safety and project rules.
    • Other duties as assigned.

Job Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in the field.
  • May require a CDL, Class A or B.
  • May required annual physical examination.
  • May be necessary to pass certification prior to operating some equipment.
  • Truck operators may be required to have valid state motor vehicle operator's license.
  • Must be able to read, write and communicate clearly with supervisor/co-workers and understand direction from supervisor.
  • Utilize basic math to calculate load weights and balance points.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, climb, bend, twist, stand and reach repetitively, operate moving equipment and work in hot/cold/damp/cramped environments.
  • Candidate may be required to pass a drug test and criminal background check based on job location/requirements.

Benefits
  • We strive to provide a competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes but is not limited to medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), wellness programs and career development.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: (803) 773-8005
Email: tcghr@thompsonconstructiongroup.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
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