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Heavy Equipment Operator 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the direction of the Heavy Equipment Supervisor, the Heavy Equipment Operator III operates and maintains a variety of heavy vehicles and other equipment. Loads and unloads supplies and ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$42.04 - $52.55/hr

QUALIFICATIONS FOR A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR * 3+ years of experience operating machinery * Earthwork and grading experience * Utility installation experience Are you attentive to safety? Do you ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator 3 information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do heavy equipment operator 3 jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator 3 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 equipment operator 3?

Heavy Equipment Operator 3s are skilled professionals who operate and maintain large machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, typically on construction sites or in industrial settings. The '3' designation usually indicates a higher level of experience or seniority, meaning these operators may handle more complex equipment or supervisory responsibilities. They are responsible for ensuring that machinery is operated safely and efficiently, performing routine maintenance, and sometimes training less experienced operators. Their work is essential for tasks such as earthmoving, grading, and site preparation on major construction projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operator 3?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator 3, you need advanced knowledge of operating various heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with GPS machine control systems, maintenance tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators excel in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise operation on construction and industrial job sites.

What are some typical challenges faced by a heavy equipment operator 3 and how can they be addressed?

Heavy Equipment Operator 3s often encounter challenges such as operating complex machinery in varying weather and terrain conditions, ensuring safety compliance, and coordinating with other site personnel. Staying up-to-date on equipment maintenance procedures and safety protocols helps minimize risks. Effective communication with supervisors and crew members is also essential to avoid project delays and ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Continuous training and attention to detail are key to overcoming these challenges and excelling in the role.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator 3 vs Heavy Equipment Operator 2?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator 3Heavy Equipment Operator 2
CertificationsTypically requires CDL and specialized equipment certificationsMay require basic equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, heavy infrastructure projectsSimilar environments but with less complex tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate advanced machinery, supervise lower-level operators, perform maintenanceOperate standard machinery, assist in site tasks

Heavy Equipment Operator 3 roles involve operating more complex machinery, requiring additional certifications and experience. They often oversee lower-level operators and handle more demanding tasks. In contrast, Heavy Equipment Operator 2 positions focus on standard equipment operation with fewer supervisory duties. Both roles are common in construction and industrial settings, but the level of responsibility and skill differs.

Which heavy equipment operator 3 job pays the most?

Heavy Equipment Operator 3 positions with specialized skills, such as operating large machinery like cranes or bulldozers, tend to offer higher salaries. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, and the industry or project complexity, with roles in construction, mining, or oil and gas often providing the highest compensation.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator 3 jobs

What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator 3 jobs?

Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operator 3 job openings:

What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operator 3 jobs?

States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Operator 3 jobs include:

Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator 3 job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator III

V2X

On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operates and maintains a variety of heavy vehicles and equipment.

  • Loads and unloads supplies and equipment from ships, docks, warehouses, and motor vehicles, and moves hazardous materials into machinery for recycling or disposal.

  • Reads and interprets grade and slope stakes and simple plans, and performs routine maintenance and emergency repairs on equipment.


V2X rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 452 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

**This Job Posting only applies to RMI Citizens and must be authorized to work in the RMI to be considered for this Job**

***This position is physically located in the Marshall Islands in support of LOGCAP***

Working across the globe, V2X builds smart solutions designed to integrate physical and digital infrastructure from base to battlefield. We bring 120 years of successful mission support to improve security, streamline logistics, and enhance readiness. Aligned around a shared purpose, our $4.5B company and 16,000 people work alongside our clients, here and abroad, to tackle their most complex challenges with integrity, respect, responsibility, and professionalism.

Under the direction of the Heavy Equipment Supervisor, the Heavy Equipment Operator III operates and maintains a variety of heavy vehicles and other equipment. Loads and unloads supplies and equipment from ships, docks, warehouses, motor vehicles, and moves hazardous materials as required into machinery for recycling, such as box crushers, or conveyor belts. The Heavy Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment, such as cranes, clamshells, power shovels, motor graders, heavy loaders, carryalls, bulldozers, rollers, scrapers, and large industrial tractors with pan or scrapper attachments. Equipment is used to excavate, load, or move dirt, gravel, or non-hazardous and hazardous materials. The Heavy Equipment also uses equipment such as cranes or lifts to put non-hazardous waste into large incinerators or open air burn pits when directed. Operator may read and interpret grade and slope stakes and simple plans, and may grease, adjust, and make emergency repairs to equipment. The heavy equipment operator is designated as the secondary operator of the incinerator. Will operate any non-hazardous waste disposal in accordance with the location Solid Waste Management plan.


Responsibilities

This position description is subject to change at any time as needed to meet the requirements of the program or company.

  • Operates and maintains a variety of heavy vehicles and other equipment.
  • Loads and unloads supplies and equipment from ships, docks, warehouses, motor vehicles, and moves hazardous materials as required into machinery for recycling, such as box crushers, or conveyor belts.
  • Operates heavy equipment, such as cranes, clamshells, power shovels, motor graders, heavy loaders, carryalls, bulldozers, rollers, scrapers, and large industrial tractors with pan or scrapper attachments.
  • Equipment is used to excavate, load, or move dirt, gravel, or non-hazardous and hazardous materials.
  • Uses equipment such as cranes or lifts to put non-hazardous waste into large incinerators or open air burn pits when directed.
  • Operator may read and interpret grade and slope stakes and simple plans, and may grease, adjust, and make emergency repairs to equipment.
  • Designated as the secondary operator of the incinerator.
  • Will operate any non-hazardous waste disposal in accordance with the location Solid Waste Management plan.
  • Performs routine maintenance and repairs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Minimum Qualifications: Education/Certifications: One-year related experience may be substituted for one year of education, if degree is required.
    • High school diploma or technical certificate (preferred)
    • Six to seven years heavy equipment operation experience
    • Ability to read grade plans and perform accurate cuts and fills
    • Knowledge of soil types and load capabilities
    • Valid driver’s license
  • Experience:
    • 6-7 Years
  • Licenses/Certifications:
    • OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Card (required within 90 days)
    • First Aid / CPR (required within 90 days)
    • Equipment Operator Qualification (CAT / John Deere preferred)
  • LN Qualifications/Certification Requirements Kwajalein, Marshall Islands Transportation Section:
    • Licenses/Certifications listed above are not required. Common Access Card (CAC) is not required. High school diploma or equivalent is required. Host Country Driver's License and Govt. issued license with endorsements are required.
  • Skills:
    • Must read, write, and speak English fluently
    • Extensive knowledge of heavy machinery operation and capabilities.
    • Excellent mechanical skills.
    • Ability to follow instructions.
  • Working Conditions:
    • Must be capable of working in an extreme weather conditions with temperatures exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Indoor and/or outdoor environment with very adverse and harsh conditions (i.e., hot, wet, tropical environment with average temperatures of 85 degrees in the summer months).
    • Includes some industrial production environment conditions as well.
    • The worker is subject to environmental conditions. Protection from weather conditions, but not necessarily from temperature changes..
    • The worker is subject to noise. There is sufficient noise to cause the worker to shout in order to be heard about ambient noise level.
    • The worker is subject to hazards. Includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, exposure to high heat or exposure to chemicals
    • The worker is subject to both environmental conditions. Activities occur inside and outside.
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Heavy work. Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
    • Work may require heavy lifting, stooping, climbing, prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, and working with or in areas where a potential could exist for exposure to physical, chemical, or biological agents.
    • Employee use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for some situations. PPE includes, but is not limited to, head, foot, torso, respiratory, vision, and hearing protective devices.
    • Must comply with all Fire and Safety Regulations and post policies.
At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.Qualifications:
  • Minimum Qualifications: Education/Certifications: One-year related experience may be substituted for one year of education, if degree is required.
    • High school diploma or technical certificate (preferred)
    • Six to seven years heavy equipment operation experience
    • Ability to read grade plans and perform accurate cuts and fills
    • Knowledge of soil types and load capabilities
    • Valid driver’s license
  • Experience:
    • 6-7 Years
  • Licenses/Certifications:
    • OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Card (required within 90 days)
    • First Aid / CPR (required within 90 days)
    • Equipment Operator Qualification (CAT / John Deere preferred)
  • LN Qualifications/Certification Requirements Kwajalein, Marshall Islands Transportation Section:
    • Licenses/Certifications listed above are not required. Common Access Card (CAC) is not required. High school diploma or equivalent is required. Host Country Driver's License and Govt. issued license with endorsements are required.
  • Skills:
    • Must read, write, and speak English fluently
    • Extensive knowledge of heavy machinery operation and capabilities.
    • Excellent mechanical skills.
    • Ability to follow instructions.
  • Working Conditions:
    • Must be capable of working in an extreme weather conditions with temperatures exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Indoor and/or outdoor environment with very adverse and harsh conditions (i.e., hot, wet, tropical environment with average temperatures of 85 degrees in the summer months).
    • Includes some industrial production environment conditions as well.
    • The worker is subject to environmental conditions. Protection from weather conditions, but not necessarily from temperature changes..
    • The worker is subject to noise. There is sufficient noise to cause the worker to shout in order to be heard about ambient noise level.
    • The worker is subject to hazards. Includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, exposure to high heat or exposure to chemicals
    • The worker is subject to both environmental conditions. Activities occur inside and outside.
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Heavy work. Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
    • Work may require heavy lifting, stooping, climbing, prolonged standing, prolonged sitting, and working with or in areas where a potential could exist for exposure to physical, chemical, or biological agents.
    • Employee use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for some situations. PPE includes, but is not limited to, head, foot, torso, respiratory, vision, and hearing protective devices.
    • Must comply with all Fire and Safety Regulations and post policies.
At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About V2X

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1945