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Equipment Operator Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Cicchini Asphalt LLC

Asphalt Paver Operator

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

The Position - Asphalt Equipment Operator: * Must be able to utilize pedals, levers and steering wheel to control direction and speed of paver and maneuver into operating position. * Communicate with ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Racine, WI

Equipment Operator information

See Racine, WI salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Racine, WI is $20.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $23.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Equipment operators, such as heavy equipment or crane operators, can earn around $3,000 or more per month with experience and proper certification. Many of these roles require on-the-job training, technical skills, and safety certifications but do not necessarily require a college degree.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Equipment operators in specialized fields such as construction, mining, or oil and gas often earn $700 or more per day, especially with experience, certifications, and the ability to work in remote or high-risk environments. These roles typically require heavy machinery skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership or licensing.

Can I operate heavy equipment without a CDL?

Equipment operators typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate certain types of heavy equipment, especially those that involve driving on public roads or transporting materials. However, for many construction or industrial equipment, a state-issued operator certification or training may suffice, and a CDL is not always required. Requirements vary by state and the specific equipment being used.

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 equipment operators make the most money?

Equipment operators in specialized fields such as crane, pipeline, or heavy construction often earn higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved. Operators with certifications, extensive experience, and skills in operating advanced machinery like cranes or bulldozers tend to have higher earning potential. Salary can also vary based on industry demand and geographic location.

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 do equipment operators do?

Equipment operators operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes to move materials, prepare sites, and assist in construction or maintenance projects. They are responsible for ensuring safety, following operational procedures, and maintaining their equipment, often requiring certification and knowledge of safety protocols.
More about Equipment Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Equipment Operator jobs in Racine, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Equipment Operator jobs in Racine, WI are:
What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Equipment Operator job openings:
Equipment Operator jobs near you
Equipment Operator - Union CDL Required - NTS

Equipment Operator - Union CDL Required - NTS

Nelson Tree Service, LLC

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
Job Title: Equipment Operator Union CDL Required
Job Type: Full-Time +, Non-Exempt
Pay: Competitive, Hourly
Benefits:
  • Benefits Available and Vary per position and location
Essential Functions & Responsibilities:
  • Must have experience operating a 75ft Jarraff Side Trimmer.
  • Plans, assigns, directs, checks, and coordinates work.
  • Operates and services equipment such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, power winches, mower deck, weed whacker, chipper, and sprayers.
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris.
  • Uses hand-tools, such as axes, hand-lines, saws, block and tackle, pruners and other equipment as required.
  • Sprays brush and stumps, making proper and selective application of herbicides.
  • Responsible for quality and quantity of production.
  • Performs all aspects of labor as necessary to keep crew operation flowing.
  • Ensures the overall safety, quality and production requirements of the crew are met.
  • Obtains written or oral permission from property owners to trim or remove trees or perform other work on property.
  • Arranges with customer or property owner to obtain access, advises of interruption, explains work to be done, etc.
  • Promotes and maintains good customer and public relations through the effective accomplishment of assigned work and the appropriate behavior of employees on the crew.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around work area.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and public.
  • Trains new personnel.
  • Keeps informed on new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices.
  • Must be willing to join local union and pay union dues.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Possesses working knowledge and be able to identify tree and shrub species.
  • Familiar with electrical hazards.
Education & Experience
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
Pre-Screen
  • Upon offer, employees may be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.
License & Certifications:
  • Commercial Driver License (CDL) required. Class A CDL with Air Brake Endorsement.
Travel Requirements:
  • Must have transportation to and from the show up location.
Physical Requirements:
  • RARE (less than 10%): sitting, kneeling, crawling, color vision, climbing stairs.
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): stooping, squatting, climbing on/off truck, reading, pushing, climbing ladders, lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): walking, body twisting, manual dexterity, speaking clearly, hearing-speech range, lifting, carrying, pulling, balancing, lifting up to 10 lbs.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): standing, sense of touch, seeing distant, climbing, gripping, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., seeing, reaching, range of motion, depth perception.
Safety
Due to the inherently dangerous nature of the industry and requirements to work with or around hazardous equipment, employees must have sufficient eyesight to judge distance/coordination of equipment and tools, be able to maintain attention and concentration for extended periods, be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, be able to wear personal protective equipment as necessary, be able to enter and exit a vehicle numerous times a day, have the endurance necessary to traverse various terrain, be capable of performing job duties throughout a standard 8- or 10-hour day, be able to communicate with others, read, write, and comprehend written/verbal job instructions and information, and communicate and handle conflict professionally.
  • Work in all temperatures and will be exposed to nature i.e., irritating plants and biting or stinging insects.
  • Works near energized parts or equipment.
  • Exposed to traffic.
  • Works around excessive noise from machines, jackhammers, gas drills and other equipment with proper hearing protection.

Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees' health, well-being, and financial security. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment. For more information on the benefits available for this role, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note:
  • All job offers are subject to pre-employment drug screening and a background check.
  • Unless otherwise noted, we do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Notice to Agencies: We only accept resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing services if a Service Agreement has been signed and we have requested recruitment/staffing services for the specific position. Any unsolicited resumes will become the property of the company, and no fees or compensation will be paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or staffing service.

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