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Heavy Equipment Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator - Heavy Equipment (Skid Steer / Excavator / Telehandler / Hi-Lo) Company: BSG Tire Recycling Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Location: Detroit, MI ...

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are ...

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are ...

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are ...

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment, following all safety guidelines and job specifications to ensure projects are ...

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Heavy Equipment Machine Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

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

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment machine 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Machine Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification. Familiarity with operating various machinery—such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders—and knowledge of safety regulations, often supported by OSHA certifications, are essential. Attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation of heavy machinery, minimizing risk and maximizing productivity on construction sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Equipment Machine Operators on construction sites?

Heavy Equipment Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating uneven or confined spaces, and coordinating closely with other site personnel to ensure safety and efficiency. Operators must remain vigilant about equipment maintenance and adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents. Effective communication with supervisors, ground crew, and other operators is essential to handle unexpected obstacles and keep projects on schedule.

What are heavy equipment machine operators?

Heavy equipment machine operators are skilled workers who operate large machinery used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries. These operators control equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, loaders, and graders to move earth, lift heavy materials, and perform tasks that require precision and safety. They are responsible for maintaining and inspecting their machines, following safety protocols, and sometimes reading blueprints or site plans. Proper training and certification are often required to become a heavy equipment machine operator.

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

AspectHeavy Equipment Machine OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), certification in equipment operationCrane operator certification, often requiring NCCCO certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, landscaping, industrial sitesConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation across various industriesSpecialized lifting and hoisting tasks in construction and shipping

Both roles require specialized certifications and involve working in construction or industrial environments. Heavy Equipment Machine Operators typically handle bulldozers, loaders, and excavators, while Crane Operators focus on operating cranes for lifting heavy loads. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Heavy Equipment Machine Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Machine Operator jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Heavy Equipment/Machine Operator- Springfield, Co.

Heavy Equipment/Machine Operator- Springfield, Co.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Springfield, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Salary: $60,000-$70,000 DOE

Heavy Equipment/Machine Operator- Springfield, Co. 81073

Status:Exempt Full-Time Experienced/Mid-Level

Salary: Annual- Starting at $60,000 $70,000 (DOE)

Benefits:After 60 Days Medical, Dental, and Vision offered/ 403 B

Primary Function: Heavy Equipment/Machine Operator/Rock Crusher/ Road Grading

Direct Supervisor:Chief of Operations

Location: Springfield, Co. 81073

Posted:Until Filled


Organization Overview:

Our Non-Profit Organization has a positive mission and team environment!

If you have you have a strong work ethic, a passion to contribute to a great cause, and experience with grounds maintenance, then apply for our Heavy Equipment/ Machine Operator position today.


Seeking machine operators that have proven skills and solid work history. Full-time outdoor, year-round & physically demanding work but good salary with health, vision and dental benefits. Located 35 miles outside of Springfield, CO.

Minimum Job Requirements:

  • 3-5 years of work experience in related field preferred
  • Some college or vocational training preferred but not required
  • CDL is preferred but not required
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Required/Other Qualifications:

  • Possess a valid Colorado drivers license and have a satisfactory driving record
  • Must already reside locally to the Springfield, Co. area
  • Solid understanding of mechanical, operating, and heavy equipment
  • Knowledgeable with heavy equipment
  • Ability to liaise with other departments to achieve a common goal
  • Flexible to working some evenings and weekends (Project Construction Events)

Functions/Job Duties:(including but not limited to):

  • Operations with a bobcat/heavy equipment at our Refuge facility, rock grinding, spreading, road grading
  • Evaluates daily work orders and prioritizes as needed
  • Maintenance/ Routine care for all heavy equipment
  • Driving, operating, and transporting Heavy Equipment, Heavy Haul
  • Communicates matters involving facilities and grounds in a current and timely manner with the Director of Operations and Executive Director
  • Provide professional and effective project management
  • Exercising sound independent judgement within general policy guidelines
  • Perform light excavation, using shovel, picks, and other equipment and tools to dig trenches and level ground
  • Able to lift 75lbs or more, physical abilities needed to complete the job: lifting and carrying heavy materials such as; furniture, equipment, and tools. Some tasks involve; climbing, crawling, and stooping to reach. Need to be able to; pull, push or manipulate heavy objects against resistance, work outdoors in temperature extremes and inclement weather. This work is performed in outdoor, shop, and office settings.
  • Remove snow in winter conditions and keep outdoor areas safe during bad weather, including spreading deicer on walkways and steps
  • Able to maintain confidentiality; demonstrates sound judgement and discretion


Personal Characteristics:

  • Self-motivated, productive, and results-oriented
  • Keeping an organized and tidy workspace
  • Flexible, ability to adapt to change and shifting priorities and to work simultaneously on a variety of complex projects
  • Teamwork orientated with ability to work independently
  • Patient, a good listener, and a heart for animals
  • Desire to learn, grow, and be coached
  • Contribute to a positive culture


As you can see, we are looking for people who possess strong foundational skills with an attitude to succeed.If you are looking for a challenging and a rewarding service opportunity with real purpose, you have found the right opportunity!

Clear Focus:

The above Job Description is intended to describe the general duties/nature of the level of work being performed. This Job Description is not to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and skills required. Job Descriptions are somewhat fluid and will change depending on the Organizations strategic direction and overall objectives accordingly.

Background Check Statement:

Approval for Hiring is contingent upon successfully passing a background check prior to your Hiring/Acceptance/Offer. This background check does not report to any credit bureau and no impact will be seen on the applicants side. This process helps the Company screen for any past background experiences that pose a threat or a discrepancy to the Organization, as TWAS does not hire any violent offenders, or individuals that have been charged criminally involving endangering/threating/hurting children and/or animals. By applying you are authorizing the The Wild Animal Sanctuary to perform this background check.

EEOC Statement:

Our Non-Profit organization, "The Wild Animal Sanctuary" is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.