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Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previous heavy equipment operating experience required--experience in landfill, transfer station, or recycling environments strongly preferred. * Solid understanding of equipment safety procedures ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bowie, MD · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

... heavy equipment operating experience - Experience operating an excavator - Reliable transportation - Civil site experience preferred but not required At Stuart Contractors, we take pride in our ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bowie, MD · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

... heavy equipment operating experience - Experience operating an excavator - Reliable transportation - Civil site experience preferred but not required At Stuart Contractors, we take pride in our ...

Minimum of six months experience operating heavy equipment. * High School Diploma or GED. * OSHA 10 certification is mandatory prior to hire (may obtain through company sponsored program). * A valid ...

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Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer information

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$19

$48

$66

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

As of Jun 21, 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.

Can you make 100k a year as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operating engineers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

What are Heavy Equipment Operating Engineers?

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 is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operating jobs typically involve specialized roles such as crane operators, especially those working in construction, shipping, or industrial settings, with salaries often exceeding $70,000 annually. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or remote locations can increase earning potential for heavy equipment operators.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators are often those with specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications in operating complex machinery like cranes or bulldozers. They can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 to $100,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or regions with large construction projects. Factors such as union membership, working overtime, and working in remote or hazardous environments can also increase earnings.

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.

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 a heavy equipment operating engineer?

A heavy equipment operating engineer is a skilled worker who operates large machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators on construction sites. They typically require specialized training, certifications, and knowledge of safety protocols to operate equipment efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

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.
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:

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dean Vesling and Associates

Peoria, IL

$37 - $38/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

DVA Consulting has immediate openings for a Heavy Equipment Operator/Demonstrator. The pay is $38 hr plus Benefits. This is a Mon-Fri 1st shift position. Come work for a Global leader in Heavy Equipment Design and Manufacturing. This position is in Edwards, IL.

Summary: The main function of a Demonstrator/Instructor is to effectively and safely demonstrate Heavy Equipment product, provide operation and application training to customers, dealers and internal personnel. A typical Demonstrator will contribute to marketing programs, provide dealer/customer support to assist in the sale of products and services.

Required Skills: Must possess a minimum of 5-10 years of operator experience in heavy construction, quarry/aggregates and or mining industries. Must have experience on at least four different product family machines Must possess the ability to work effectively with those from various cultures and backgrounds Must have the ability to professionally deliver presentations both in the classroom and the field is required, and the ability to win over potentially hostile audiences Must have the ability to work in a team setting Must have fluency in English Must have a working knowledge of construction technologies (GPS, laser, etc)

Desired Skills: Strong customer focus Must possess the ability to communicate and work effectively with customers ranging from; laborers up to the CEO of the company. Incumbent will be working with the trade press and must possess a professional demeanor, both on and off camera. Must possess the ability to work effectively internal coworkers, dealers and customers from various cultures. Must possess strong human relation and communication skills, both written and verbal in order to diffuse high pressure situations when instructing customers. Must possess superior heavy equipment operating skills on at least four key product families and demonstrate the ability to develop required skills on remaining product families