ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsFull Time Heavy Equipment Operator JobsFull Time Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do full time heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time heavy equipment operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $22.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time heavy equipment operator?

Full Time Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes, on construction sites and other work environments. They are responsible for safely and efficiently moving earth, materials, and equipment according to project specifications. These operators often work on construction, mining, or roadwork projects and must be knowledgeable about safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and site procedures. Being 'full time' means they typically work standard workweeks or longer, depending on project needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time heavy equipment operator?

To thrive as a Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator, you need proficiency in operating and maintaining machinery such as excavators, loaders, and bulldozers, often requiring a high school diploma and a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with GPS systems, grading software, and safety protocols is typically expected, along with OSHA certifications. Attention to detail, strong communication, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation of heavy equipment, which is vital for productivity and minimizing workplace accidents.

What types of equipment might I operate daily as a full time heavy equipment operator, and how does this vary across projects?

As a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator, you may work with a range of machinery including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, and backhoes. The specific equipment you use often depends on the type and scope of the project—construction sites might require frequent use of excavators and loaders, while roadwork may call for graders and rollers. Flexibility in operating different machines is highly valued, as projects can shift rapidly and operators are often cross-trained to fill multiple roles. This variety not only keeps the work engaging but also provides excellent opportunities to broaden your skill set and advance in your career.

What is the difference between Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator vs Full Time Crane Operator?

AspectFull Time Heavy Equipment OperatorFull Time Crane Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredCrane operator certification (e.g., NCCCO), OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, industrial settings, shipping yards
Job DutiesOperate bulldozers, excavators, loadersOperate tower, mobile, or overhead cranes

Both roles require safety certifications and involve working in construction or industrial environments. While heavy equipment operators handle various machinery like excavators and loaders, crane operators specialize in lifting and moving heavy loads with cranes. The choice depends on the specific machinery and tasks involved in your career path.

Which full time heavy equipment operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying full-time heavy equipment operator jobs are often in the oil and gas industry, construction, or mining, where specialized skills and certifications like CDL or NCCCO can lead to higher wages. Experienced operators with advanced equipment knowledge and safety training tend to earn the most, especially in remote or high-demand regions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,161 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tradesmen International, Inc.

Kingston, TN • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description

Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for projects located in the Kingston, TN area. This is a first shift opportunity, and the pay rate is up to $28/hour based on experience and skill level. If you are a Heavy Equipment Operator and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity, and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career! 

Job Scope:        

  • Operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, and other heavy machinery
  • Move, spread, and grade dirt across residential construction sites
  • Achieve proper elevations, slopes, and site grade according to plans
  • Understand grading plans, site layouts & grade stakes to ensure accurate earthwork
Requirements
  • 5+ years of heavy equipment operator experience with extensive experience in mass grading
Company Details

Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.

Our comprehensive benefits include:

  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program - earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability

"Be Safe" from fraud!  Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other "up front"  costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.

Click here to visit Tradesmen's full website.

LocationUS-TN-KINGSTONEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply