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Heavy Equipment Operator 1 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Each day you'll work at one of our recycling facilities that service over 20 million customers across the USA. As a Heavy Equipment Operator you'll be responsible for operating heavy equipment like ...

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator $1,540 WEEKLY Join SAVARD Personnel Group - where your skills are valued! Key Requirements: * The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

... who can run one or more of the following types of heavy equipment: * Backhoe * Skid Steer ... Experience - Proven experience in operating a range of heavy equipment - Strong mechanical ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator 1 information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do heavy equipment operator 1 jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator 1 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 the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators typically work in specialized industries such as oil and gas, mining, or large-scale infrastructure projects, often earning six-figure salaries. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, and the complexity of equipment operated, such as cranes or bulldozers, often requiring specialized training and safety certifications.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator 1 vs Heavy Equipment Operator 2?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator 1Heavy Equipment Operator 2
CredentialsBasic certification, valid driver's licenseAdvanced certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, general industrial settingsMore complex projects, higher safety standards
Employer UsageEntry-level roles, general operationsSupervisory or specialized roles

Heavy Equipment Operator 1 typically handles basic operation tasks with standard certifications, working in general construction environments. Heavy Equipment Operator 2 often requires additional training and handles more complex tasks, sometimes supervising others. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator 1, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator 1, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with a valid commercial driver’s license. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and GPS or grading systems is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to follow directions help operators excel on diverse worksites. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and accurate work that is essential for successful construction and infrastructure projects.

What is a machine operator 1?

A Machine Operator 1 is an entry-level position responsible for operating and maintaining heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, or loaders. The role typically requires basic technical skills, adherence to safety protocols, and may involve following instructions from supervisors. Certification or training in equipment operation is often necessary to ensure safe and efficient work performance.

What are some common challenges Heavy Equipment Operator 1s face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Heavy Equipment Operator 1s often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven workspaces, and maintaining equipment safety. Staying vigilant about safety protocols, communicating effectively with crew members, and keeping up with routine equipment checks can help address these challenges. Regular training and a proactive approach to maintenance are crucial for minimizing downtime and ensuring a safe, productive work environment.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Heavy Equipment Operators with specialized skills, certifications, and experience working on large-scale construction, mining, or industrial projects can sometimes earn $700 or more per day. Such high pay often reflects the complexity of the equipment operated, the risk involved, and the demanding work environment, especially for those working overtime or on short-term contracts.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Heavy equipment operator jobs often require some training or certification, but entry-level positions may be available for those without prior experience. Employers typically look for basic skills, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn, and on-the-job training is common for new operators. Obtaining a certification such as a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or completing a training program can improve job prospects.

What are Heavy Equipment Operators?

Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery used in construction, mining, and other industries. They control equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes to move earth, lift materials, and perform tasks that require precision and safety awareness. These operators are responsible for inspecting their equipment, following safety protocols, and collaborating with other workers on job sites. Training and certification are often required to ensure safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator 1 jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator 1 jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operator 1 job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operator 1 jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Operator 1 jobs include:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator 1 job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Waste Management

Morrisville, NC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 635 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 88 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance of family time? If this speaks to you, then WM might be the place for your next career move. 

Stable work and benefits that support you and your loved ones, a schedule that respects work life balance with your safety at the heart of everything we do and support for your future with training and development based on your unique career goals. That's what you get as a Heavy Equipment Operator at WM - and more. 

About us

WM is North America's leading provider of comprehensive waste management environmental services. We partner with our customers and the communities we serve to manage and reduce waste at each stage from collection to disposal, while recovering valuable resources and creating clean, renewable energy. 

The pay and benefits you'll get as a Heavy Equipment Operator:

  • Depending on experience

  • Stable hours for your financial stability

  • Access to a stock purchase plan 

  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage including dental, vision and prescription coverage.

  • We are Committed to Growth: Annual Education Assistance Benefit available for team members

  • Company-matched 401(k)

  • Adoption assistance and parent support

These are just a few of our comprehensive benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator. Whether you are planning on building or expanding your family or looking for the next step in your career - WM is there, helping build the best and total you. 

The hours and location you'll work in as a Heavy Equipment Operator with WM:

  • Monday - Friday every week
    • 6am to 4:30pm
    • Some Weekends
    • We're committed to offering you stable hours for the financial security and work life balance you need.
    • The normal setting for this job is our waste disposal site in Raleigh, NC

Those are the key details on pay and schedule - now here's more on what you'll be doing as a Heavy Equipment Operator at WM. 

Each day you'll work at one of our recycling facilities that service over 20 million customers across the USA. As a Heavy Equipment Operator you'll be responsible for operating heavy equipment like bulldozers, scrapers & front-end loaders - this role is vital to the work we do, so your work will be recognized and valued for the impact it has on our operation. Our heavy equipment operators take their careers to the next level by working on equipment that requires a high level of skill - and determination.  Our waste disposal sites have strict procedures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all our employees. 

Here's more of what you'll do:

  • Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures. 
    • Conducts routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment; maintains accurate records. 
    • Moves and positions raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment.
    • Follow appropriate standard operating procedures as per guidelines for operating and maintaining vehicle. 
    • Performs other duties as assigned. 

What do you need to be considered for the role of Heavy Equipment Operator?

  • 1 year of experience operating heavy equipment.
    • Be over 18 years of age.
    • Legally eligible to work in the United States
    • Ability to perform physical requirements of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.
    • Successfully complete and pass pre-employment drug screen and physical.
    • Preferred Experience: Wheel loader and dozer

The kind of people who thrive in our teams:

  • Thrive while working independently.
    • Take accountability for adhering to our safety guidelines.
    • Good communicators who are ready to support other colleagues
    • Able to problem solve while independently.

Work environment and physical demands:

Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. 

  • Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.) most of the workday.
    • Required to exert physical effort in handling objects less than 30 pounds occasionally.
    • Required to be exposed to physical occupational risks (such as cuts, burns, exposure to toxic chemicals, etc.) rarely. 
    • Required to be exposed to physical environment which involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes or similar elements most of the workday. 

Normal setting for this job is: shop or field.  

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of postconsumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gastoelectricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavyduty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States:  WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada:  WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons or service federal property. Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID or TSAapproved alternative.

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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