ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Equipment Operator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Troon

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC

$17.50/hr

  • Retirement

East Potomac Golf Course is excited to announce the exceptional career opportunity of Equipment Operator. Qualified candidates will thrive in a hospitality environment and be highly focused on ...

Troon Golf

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

  • Retirement

East Potomac Golf Course is excited to announce the exceptional career opportunity of Equipment Operator. Qualified candidates will thrive in a hospitality environment and be highly focused on ...

Waste Connections

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Equipment Operator - Timberlane Landfill Location: Oakdale, LA Pay: $21-24/hour (based on experience), weekly pay Schedule: Monday - Friday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM + Occasional Weekends We're looking for ...

Waste Connections

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Equipment Operator - Timberlane Landfill Location: Oakdale, LA Pay: $21-24/hour (based on experience), weekly pay Schedule: Monday - Friday, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM + Occasional Weekends We're looking for ...

Team Fishel

Equipment Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The purpose of an Equipment Operator at Team Fishel is to assist the Foreman in completing the project safely, on-time, and within the customer's specifications for quality, and other work as needed.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Equipment Operator information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator in Silver Spring, MD is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $25.87 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 Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Equipment Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Equipment Operator jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Equipment Operator job openings:

Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,843 per year, or $23 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Lead Equipment Operator

Maryland Environmental Service

Dickerson, MD • On-site

$50K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Maryland Environmental Service rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

393rd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Current MES Employees who are interested in applying for this position must visit the Internal MES Careers Page by going to their Workday Dashboard, clicking on the Career icon and selecting Find Jobs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading team that provides environmental solutions to the public and private sectors throughout the State of Maryland.

Job Description:

Maryland Environmental Service has an opening for an Equipment Operator, Senior Equipment Operator, or Lead Equipment Operator at our Montgomery County Yardwaste facility located in Dickerson, MD.

Estimated Pay Range:

Equipment Operator:$45,666.23 - $62,791.65

Senior Equipment Operator: $50,233.92 - $69,070.88

Lead Equipment Operator:$55,256.40 - $75,978.12

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance with choice of medical plan and prescription, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance options, along with flexible spending accounts

  • 401K retirement savings program with generous agency match

  • Paid vacation, personal and sick leave

  • Eleven paid holidays per year

  • Tuition assistance

Minimum Requirements:

All classification levels require graduation from a standard high school or GED, ability to pass a standard physical examination, ability to lift 50 pounds, and possession of a valid driver's license with less than 5 points.

The EO classification is required to have one (1) year experience operating heavy equipment, the Senior EO is required to have three (3) years experience operating heavy equipment, and the Lead EO is required to have five (5) years experience operating heavy equipment

Appointment to some sites may also require Commercial Driver's License with specific endorsements.

This position will be open until filled.

The Equipment Operator position is eligible for on-spot, contingent offers. Candidates who apply after an on-spot offer has been extended (including internal candidates) will not be considered unless the candidate who receives the on-spot, contingent offer does not complete the process to become an MES employee.

Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully completing required pre-employment screens, to include full background check, drug & alcohol screening, and position appropriate physical.

Maryland Environmental Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. MES does not participate in programs that require sponsorship for work visas.

What Maryland Environmental Service employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply