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Ground Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A Budget Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Winter Springs, FL · On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Essential functions include: operating machinery to grind trees to ground level or below; operating commercial chainsaws as needed; using equipment in accordance with the American National Standards ...

Careers at Teichert

Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Purpose The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of various ... Support ground crew with manual tasks (e.g., shoveling, jackhammering, lifting materials) when ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Shaver Lake, CA

$40.84 - $40.97/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Amrize

Equipment Operator

Littleton, MA

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Equipment Operator | Req ID: 17226 | HR Contact: John Sanabria | Location: Littleton, MA ABOUT THE ... Communicate with spotters and ground crews using hand signals or radios to coordinate movement.

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Michigan, ND

$17.50 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO

$35.36/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Lawrenceburg, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $22/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Shaver Lake, CA · On-site

$40.84 - $40.97/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Front Royal, VA

$17.50 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Cynthiana, KY

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Nicholasville, KY

$16.75 - $23/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

JDM GOLF LLC

Equipment Operator

Phoenix, AZ

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Equipment Operator Arizona Biltmore Golf Club - Phoenix, AZ 85016 Job Summary Under general ... Lifting of 20 lbs. from ground required. * Tree Work - Ability to operate various sizes of ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Front Royal, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Berea, KY

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Job Summary ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

Wright Tree Service

Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO

$35.36/hr

Equipment Operator Pay Rate Type: Non-Exempt Creation Date/Revision Date: 04/24/2026 Hourly Wage ... Works on the ground using hand saws, ground saws or other applicable tools to cut brush, limbs and ...

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Ground Equipment Operator information

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How much do ground equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for ground equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Ground Equipment Operators, and how can they be overcome?

Ground Equipment Operators often work in fast-paced environments where they must safely and efficiently handle heavy machinery near aircraft and personnel. Common challenges include adapting to changing weather conditions, maintaining equipment reliability, and managing tight schedules. These challenges can be overcome by following strict safety protocols, participating in regular equipment training, and maintaining clear communication with team members and supervisors. Building strong teamwork and staying up-to-date on operational procedures also help operators excel in their roles.

What is a ground equipment operator?

A ground equipment operator is responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment used in construction, transportation, or industrial settings. They typically need to have knowledge of safety procedures, may require certifications, and work in outdoor or industrial environments. Their tasks include operating cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, and other machinery to move materials or prepare sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ground Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ground Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant equipment operation experience or certifications. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety protocols, and often a commercial driver’s license (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a strong sense of responsibility are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of ground equipment, minimizing accidents and supporting smooth logistical operations.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who operate specialized or heavy-duty machinery such as crane, bulldozer, or excavator operators with extensive experience and certifications. In particular, crane operators tend to earn the highest wages among equipment operators, especially when working in construction, industrial, or shipping environments. Advanced skills, safety training, and working in high-demand regions can also increase earning potential.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Ground equipment operators in specialized industries such as construction, mining, or oil and gas can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially with overtime, certifications, or in high-demand projects. These roles often require experience, operating heavy machinery, and adherence to safety standards. High-paying positions are typically project-based or involve hazardous environments that justify higher wages.

What is the difference between Ground Equipment Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectGround Equipment OperatorCrane Operator
Required CertificationsTypically OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsCrane operator certification (e.g., NCCCO), OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, airports, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, transportation, logisticsHeavy construction, shipping, infrastructure projects

Both Ground Equipment Operators and Crane Operators work in construction and industrial settings, often requiring safety certifications. While Ground Equipment Operators handle various machinery like loaders and forklifts, Crane Operators specifically operate cranes for lifting heavy loads. The roles overlap in work environment and certifications but differ in equipment specialization and scope of duties.

How much do ground handlers get paid?

Ground equipment operators typically earn an average hourly wage between $15 and $25, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, often working shifts that include nights and weekends.
More about Ground Equipment Operator jobs
What states have the most Ground Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Ground Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ground Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ground Equipment Operator jobs are:
Ground Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ground Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator

A Budget Tree Service

Winter Springs, FL • On-site

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

A Budget Tree Service, Inc. is looking for an experienced stump grinder and bobcat operator.
Essential functions include: operating machinery to grind trees to ground level or below; operating commercial chainsaws as needed; using equipment in accordance with the American National Standards Institute Safety Guidelines; and safely driving trucks or operating other equipment as assigned.
Qualified candidates should be team oriented and have a clean driving history.
All applicants are required to take a drug screen and MVR review.
We offer competitive rates and a benefit package.
Email your resume and come join our team!
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must have a minimum of 2 years experience with running and operating machinery
  • Must have a current and valid Driver's License
  • Must pass company driving test
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification
  • Must be able to work outdoors under varying and sometimes adverse weather conditions
  • Must have excellent time management skills

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