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Heavy Duty Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Suit-Kote Corporation

Heavy Duty/ Equipment

Le Roy, NY · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Heavy Duty/ Equipment Mechanic Overview: Suit-Kote Corporation, a leading Asphalt products ... Whenever on Suit-Kote property or job sites, or operating Suit- Kote equipment, employees are ...

Doggett

Heavy Duty Equipment Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

Heavy-Duty Equipment Manager Classification Exempt Job Summary The Heavy-Duty Equipment Manager is a working manager position that will develop Toyota Lift of Houston and South Texas's heavy-duty ...

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How much do heavy duty equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy duty 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 is a heavy duty equipment operator?

Heavy Duty Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery and vehicles used in construction, mining, forestry, and other industries. Their work involves handling equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, cranes, and graders to move earth, lift materials, and perform various tasks on job sites. Operators are trained to understand safety protocols, machinery maintenance, and how to interpret job specifications to ensure efficient and safe operations. They play a crucial role in infrastructure development and maintenance projects.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Duty Equipment Operator, you need expertise in operating and maintaining heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver's license or operator certification. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and safety management systems is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently on site. These abilities are crucial for ensuring project productivity, minimizing accidents, and maintaining equipment longevity in demanding work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy duty equipment operators on a typical worksite?

Heavy Duty Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating rough or uneven terrain, and ensuring safety while operating large machinery near other workers. Communication with team members is crucial to coordinate tasks and prevent accidents. Additionally, operators must stay alert for equipment malfunctions and perform routine inspections to minimize downtime and maintain productivity.

What is the difference between Heavy Duty Equipment Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavy Duty Equipment OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), certification in heavy machineryCrane operator certification, often with NCCCO certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction sites, industrial settings, shipping yards
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, transportationConstruction, shipping, industrial manufacturing

Heavy Duty Equipment Operators and Crane Operators both work in construction and industrial environments, requiring specialized certifications. While Heavy Duty Equipment Operators handle a variety of machinery like bulldozers and loaders, Crane Operators focus on operating cranes for lifting heavy materials. Both roles are essential in construction projects but differ in equipment specialization and certification requirements.

How do you become a heavy duty equipment operator?

To become a heavy duty equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, or cranes. Many employers require certification or licensing, which involves passing written and practical exams, and gaining experience through on-the-job training is also common.

Which heavy duty equipment operator job pays the most?

Heavy duty equipment operators working in specialized roles such as crane, excavator, or bulldozer operators often earn the highest wages, especially when working on large construction projects or in remote locations. Certifications, experience, and operating complex machinery can also increase earning potential, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually.
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Heavy Duty Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Duty Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Duty Equipment Operator

Systems Application & Technologies Inc

Dugway, UT

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description

Position Type: Full-time, Non-exempt

Work Location: U.S. Army Dugway Proving Ground, Utah


Systems Application & Technologies, Inc. (SA-TECH) is a progressive and well-established Department of Defense (DoD) contractor specializing in Range operations and maintenance (O&M); weapons testing; facilities management; aerial, ground and seaborne targets O&M; technical, logistics and other engineering support; systems integration; electronics and communications maintenance services; and a growing cybersecurity business. We are highly focused and, among other efforts, currently operate a dozen active test and/or training ranges for the Army, Air Force and Navy. Our 35-year heritage is founded on supporting complex and diverse DoD programs and we've developed a standout reputation for providing the highest quality services, superior workmanship and cost-effective results while achieving complete customer satisfaction.


At Dugway Proving Ground (DPG), southwest of Salt Lake City Utah, SA-TECH supports the West Desert Test Center (WDTC), the nation's designated Major Range Test Facility Base (MRTFB) for chemical and biological defense. The WDTC plans, conducts, evaluates, reports, and supports Chemical and Biological (CB) and non-CB testing efforts for the Department of Defense (DoD), other federal agencies, private industries, and foreign Governments (e.g., environmental assessment/impact evaluations, weapons and munitions demilitarization, chemical energetics/homemade explosive testing, unmanned systems testing, direct and indirect fire weapons testing, hazard assessments, and technical/logistical support of operations at DPG).


At DPG, SA-TECH is looking to hire a Heavy Duty Equipment Operator onto our team to support program efforts and contribute to success at this major DoD Test Facility.


Specific duties include (but are not limited to):

  • Operate heavy duty equipment to assist construction and other related work, such as maintaining roads and grounds, erecting towers and constructing facilities and other buildings.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Conditions:

  • Work is mostly performed outdoors under changing weather conditions depending on the location of equipment and projects.
  • Must be familiar with safety processes, procedures and concerns in relation to working with heavy duty equipment.
  • May be required to lift and handle heavy items (50 lbs.).
  • Stand/walk, climb, stoop, bend and push and pull for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for work tasks that require such protective gear.

Requirements

Education/Experience/Skills

  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Specialized training and at least two (2) years of experience in the operation of heavy equipment as it pertains to the erection of towers and the maintenance of roads and grounds.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Utah Commercial Driver's License (CDL-A).
  • A commitment to maintaining a productive and collaborative working environment.
  • Current Driver's License required; must be able to be insured through company's vehicle insurance policy while driving work/government/rental vehicles during working hours, and for the duration of employment.
  • U.S. Citizenship required and you must be able to obtain a U.S. DoD Secret Security Clearance within 90 days of hire date and maintain a Secret clearance throughout employment.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and physical, as well as periodic retests.
  • All candidates will be required to pass background screening to include SSN, Driver's Record, and a Criminal Background Investigation.


Supporting Our Warfighters:

As a highly regarded DoD employer, SA-TECH recognizes that our success is indicative of our team members' hard work and dedication towards a common goal... Supporting our Warfighters. Along with unparalleled stability, we have the ingredients for superior performance with a servant leadership mentality that provides an affirmation of purpose and value in a team-oriented positive work environment. As such, we provide a sense of family, competitive pay and employee benefits, along with a strong commitment to the professional development of our workforce and for providing broad career opportunities throughout the United States.


SA-TECH offers:

  • Employee Recognition
  • Above-Average Compensation
  • Competitive Benefits
  • Ongoing Training and Development
  • Career Advancement Opportunities

Benefits Offered:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Disability
  • 401(k) match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • EAP
  • Education Assistance
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Vacation and Sick Leave

Other Important Information You Should Know:

  • By applying to this posting, you express interest in the position and may be considered for other opportunities within the company that match your skills.
  • SA-TECH offers flexible work schedules depending on the program, alongside generous PTO benefits.
  • The above are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in this position. SA-TECH maintains the right to make changes to job descriptions whenever necessary.
  • SA-TECH is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and evaluate all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status. We participate in the E-Verify system to verify work authorization in the U.S.
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply within 5-15 days of posting for optimal consideration.
  • We prioritize a supportive work environment, professional development, and a healthy work-life balance and our pay and benefits aim to enhance employee well-being.
  • If this culture resonates with you, we invite you to apply. If you're uncertain about your fit, please explore other roles on SA-TECH Careers .
All responses will be handled with strict confidentiality.


** Please note that the provided salary information is a general guideline. SA-TECH considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education, training, and skills as well as market and business considerations when extending offers.

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