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Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

CIPP Operator

Knoxville, TN · Remote

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

Perform equipment setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting. * Load, unload, and transport materials and equipment. * Assist with jobsite preparation and cleanup. * Perform inspections and basic ...

Equipment Chase -1st Shift

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17 - $25.65/hr

Follows safety procedures while operating powered equipment throughout the warehouse. Primary Job Duties & Responsibilities * Assists the distribution department with the overseeing of incoming ...

Equipment Chase -1st Shift

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17 - $25.65/hr

Follows safety procedures while operating powered equipment throughout the warehouse. * Primary Job Duties & Responsibilities Assists the distribution department with the overseeing of incoming ...

CNC Machinist Operator

Knoxville, TN

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Machinist And Equipment Operator We are looking for skilled machinists and equipment operators to perform setups and/or operate multiple mills or lathes in a clean manufacturing environment. You will ...

The Operator - Heavy Equipment is responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment at a recycling center, landfill or transfer station for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering ...

The Operator - Heavy Equipment is responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment at a recycling center, landfill or transfer station for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering ...

Showing results 21-40

Equipment Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $21.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $23.89 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Equipment Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,245 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Experienced Heavy Equipment Operator Landfill

Waste Management

Heiskell, TN • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 645 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description


Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance of family time? If this speaks to you, then WM might be the place for your next career move.
Stable work and benefits that support you and your loved ones, a schedule that respects work life balance with your safety at the heart of everything we do and support for your future with training and development based on your unique career goals. That's what you get as a Heavy Equipment Operator II at WM - and more.
About us
WM is North America's leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services. We partner with our customers and the communities we serve to manage and reduce waste at each stage from collection to disposal, while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy.
The pay and benefits you'll get as a Heavy Equipment Operator II:
⚬ Starting salary of $20-$25 per hour depending on experience
⚬ Stable hours for your financial stability
⚬ Access to a stock purchase plan
⚬ Comprehensive healthcare coverage including dental, vision and prescription coverage.
⚬ Paid tuition and scholarships for you and your dependents
⚬ Company-matched 401(k)
⚬ Adoption assistance and parent support
These are just a few of our comprehensive benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator II. Whether you are planning on building or expanding your family or looking for the next step in your career - WM is there, helping build the best and total you.
The hours and location you'll work in as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with WM:
• Monday - Friday every week
• 8:00am to 6:00pm
• Occasional weekends
• We're committed to offering you stable hours for the financial security and work life balance you need.
• The normal setting for this job is our landfill facility in Blountville, TN
Those are the key details on pay and schedule - now here's more on what you'll be doing as a Heavy Equipment Operator II at WM.
Each day you'll work at one of our recycling facilities that service over 20 million customers across the USA. As a Heavy Equipment Operator II you'll be responsible for operating heavy equipment like bulldozers, scrapers & front-end loaders - this role is vital to the work we do, so your work will be recognized and valued for the impact it has on our operation. Our heavy equipment operators take their careers to the next level by working on equipment that requires a high level of skill - and determination. Our waste disposal sites have strict procedures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our landfill site employees.
Here's more of what you'll do:
• Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures.
• Conducts routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment; maintains accurate records.
• Moves and positions raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment.
• Follow appropriate standard operating procedures as per guidelines for operating and maintaining vehicle.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
What do you need to be considered for the role of Heavy Equipment Operator II?
• 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment.
• Be over 18 years of age.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States
• Ability to perform physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Successfully complete and pass pre-employment drug screen and physical.
The kind of people who thrive in our teams:
• Thrive while working independently.
• Take accountability for adhering to our safety guidelines.
• Good communicators who are ready to support other colleagues
• Able to problem solve while independently.
Work environment and physical demands:
Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) most of the workday.
• Required to exert physical effort in handling objects less than 30 pounds occasionally.
• Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals, etc.) rarely.
• Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements most of the workday.
• Normal setting for this job is: shop or field.
Benefits:
At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.
If this sounds like what you've been looking for, then click 'Apply now' to start your tomorrow, today
About Us
ABOUT WM
WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of post-consumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavy-duty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.
Equal Employment Opportunity
For United States: WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
For Canada: WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.
Real ID
In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons or service federal property. Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID or TSA-approved alternative.
About the Team
What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities.
We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow.

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