2

Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Apprentice Operator I

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$29.69 - $32.56/hr

Job Type Full-time Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52 /Hour + Overtime Company Paid Benefits Paid Training Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response Full-Time ...

Apprentice Operator I

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52 /Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response Full-Time |Travel Up ...

heavy duty wrecker operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$1.2K - $3.0K/wk (+ commission)

Perform towing, winching, accident recovery and equipment transport * Use proper weight ... We offer full-time employment with competitive pay of $22 per hour, plus a $40 commission for every ...

Showing results 41-60

Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$24

$35

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time heavy equipment operator in Riverside, CA is $24.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $28.08 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 Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Full Time Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Grapple Operator -5+ years experience

SA Recycling

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 92 rated recycling and waste


Job description

5+ years of experience in scrap metal industry are required.
Job Duties
Including, but not limited to:
• Operate metal processing equipment using safe work habits
• Observe processing operations so that malfunctions can be detected, and notify maintenance of any malfunctions.
• Lift raw materials, finished products, and packed items, manually or using hoists.
• Load and unload items from machines, conveyors, and conveyances.
• Safely clean equipment when jams occur
• Follow all procedures e.g. LOTOTO, Fall Prevention, and Fire Prevention
• Clean up work area at the end of shift
• Keep work areas neat and orderly
• Regular attendance and punctuality are essential job functions
• Organizing materials to have more effective use of space
• Dispose of various waste materials in the appropriate manner
• Inspection to ensure cleanup is completed
• Effective housekeeping in workplace area is an ongoing operation for safety and better hygienic conditions for all team members.
Qualifications
• Employees in this position prior to April 2014 are presumed to be qualified and are "grandfathered" into their positions.• Must pass a medical physical and drug test
• Must pass a background check
• Preferred - high school diploma or GED and/or foreign education acceptable
• Bi-lingual (English & Spanish) language skills a plus
• Ability to: communicate with others effectively; understand direction (written or oral) and use basic math skills as the job demands
Job Expectations
Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.
Physical Requirements
• Work Environment: Scrap metal Recycling and shredder yard
• Equipment & Tools: Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools
• Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate
• Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity
• Sensory Demands: Hearing, vision, touch, smell and taste
• Hand Movements: Repetitive motions, gripping
Pay Range: $28-30/hr depending on experience
#INDSAR
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What SA Recycling employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom