1

Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Woodinville, WA ยท Remote

$35 - $47/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator (Civil / Environmental Excavation) Pay: $3 5 - $47 /hour Location ... Operating excavators (mini up to 120k lb.), dozers, loaders, and skid steers * Performing mass ...

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oxford, MA ยท On-site

$30 - $90/hr

Minimum 5 years of verifiable heavy equipment operating experience * Current DOT medical certificate * OSHA 10 certification (minimum) * Hands-on experience with excavators, dozers, loaders, dump ...

New

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oxford, MA ยท On-site

$30 - $90/hr

Minimum 5 years of verifiable heavy equipment operating experience * Current DOT medical certificate * OSHA 10 certification (minimum) * Hands-on experience with excavators, dozers, loaders, dump ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer information

See salary details

$19

$48

$66

How much do heavy equipment operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operating engineer in the United States is $48.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.31 and $52.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a heavy equipment operating engineer?

Heavy Equipment Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain large machinery used in construction, mining, and other industrial projects. Their responsibilities include controlling equipment like bulldozers, cranes, loaders, and excavators, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing routine maintenance checks. These operators play a crucial role in preparing sites, moving materials, and supporting infrastructure development. Training is typically acquired through apprenticeships or vocational schools, and many operators must be licensed or certified depending on local regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operating engineer?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer, you need proficiency in operating various heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often completion of an apprenticeship or trade school program. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and safety systems, along with certifications like OSHA or state licensure, are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators anticipate hazards and collaborate on job sites. These skills are critical for ensuring safety, efficiency, and the successful completion of construction and infrastructure projects.

What are the typical challenges faced by heavy equipment operating engineers on construction sites?

Heavy Equipment Operating Engineers often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven terrain, and coordinating closely with other trades to ensure site safety and efficiency. Managing complex machinery requires strong attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents or equipment damage. Additionally, engineers must adapt to changing site plans and schedules, working collaboratively with supervisors and other crew members to meet project deadlines.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operating EngineerCrane Operator
CredentialsHeavy Equipment Operating Engineer license, certifications in machinery operationCrane operator certification, license for crane operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial projects, roadworkConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial facilities
Employer & IndustryConstruction companies, public works, infrastructure projectsConstruction firms, shipping companies, industrial contractors

Both Heavy Equipment Operating Engineers and Crane Operators require specialized certifications and work in construction-related environments. While Heavy Equipment Operating Engineers operate a variety of heavy machinery like bulldozers and loaders, Crane Operators focus specifically on operating cranes. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial projects, often overlapping in work sites but differing in equipment specialization.

Where do heavy equipment operating engineers make the most money?

Heavy equipment operating engineers tend to earn higher wages in regions with strong construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects, such as areas experiencing rapid development or with high demand for large-scale projects. States or provinces with active construction markets and higher living costs often offer higher pay rates for experienced operators with certifications and specialized skills. Salary can also increase with union membership, overtime, and advanced equipment operation expertise.
More about Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer 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 $100,599 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

VLS Environmental Solutions

Honea Path, SC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

VLS Environmental Solutions is Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators
Gray Court, SC

VLS Environmental Solutions is hiring heavy equipment operators to support operations at our alternative engineered fuel facility in Gray Court, SC.

Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Telemedicine benefits
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Paid time off and 11 company-paid holidays
  • Employee assistance program
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Voluntary life insurance options
What You'll Do:
  • As a heavy equipment operator, you will operate a variety of heavy equipment, including forklifts, loaders, excavators, skid steers, and telehandlers, to load, unload, and move materials to support daily operations.
Requirements:
  • At least 1 year of industrial, warehouse, or equipment operation experience
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and high school diploma/GED
  • Experience operating forklifts or heavy equipment
  • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 75 lbs frequently as part of essential job functions
About VLS Environmental Solutions

VLS Environmental Solutions is a recognized leader in sustainability solutions, providing innovative services designed to help businesses meet their environmental goals.

With more than 1,200 employees across 40 locations throughout North America, VLS combines industry expertise, advanced technology, and a commitment to safety to deliver solutions that make a lasting impact.

At VLS, we don't just manage materials - we create solutions that help build a more sustainable future.