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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 Jul 17, 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 are Heavy Equipment Operator 3s?

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 is a level 3 heavy equipment operator?

A level 3 heavy equipment operator is an experienced worker qualified to operate complex machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. They typically perform tasks with minimal supervision and may oversee lower-level operators on construction or industrial sites.

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.

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 highest paying heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paying heavy equipment operator jobs typically involve specialized roles such as crane or tower crane operators, or those working in high-risk environments like mining or oil and gas extraction. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and operating complex machinery, which can lead to higher wages compared to standard construction equipment operation.

Will heavy equipment operators be replaced by AI?

Heavy equipment operators perform tasks that require manual skill and real-time decision-making, which are currently difficult for AI and automation to fully replicate. While some machinery may incorporate automation or remote control features, human operators are still essential for complex, adaptive tasks and safety oversight. Advances in technology may change job roles over time, but complete replacement by AI is not imminent.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Heavy Equipment Operators with specialized skills, extensive experience, or working in high-risk environments can earn around $700 a day, especially when working overtime or on project-based contracts. Certain roles in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries often offer such high daily rates for skilled operators with certifications and a strong safety record.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator 3, and why are they important?

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Senior Heavy Equipment Operator

Senior Heavy Equipment Operator

Waste Management

Opelika, AL • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 634 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 75 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator III 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 III 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 III:

  • Starting salary of $25 - $28 per hour depending on experience

    • Stable hours for your financial stability

      • Access to a stock purchase plan 

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

      • Paid tuition and scholarships for you and your dependents 

      • Company-matched 401(k)

      • Adoption assistance and parent support

These are just a few of our comprehensive benefits for Heavy Equipment Operator III. 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 III with WM:

  • Monday - Friday every week
    • 7:30am to 5:30pm
    • Occassional 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 Landfill in Opelika, AL

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

  • 5 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: motor grader, front end loader, dozer, excavator

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.

Benefits:

At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.

If this sounds like what you've been looking for, then click 'Apply now' to start your tomorrow, today.

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 post-consumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gas-to-electricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavy-duty 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.

If this position is to be performed in Los Angeles County, California, please read carefully the information contained here in LA County Addendum. 

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 TSA approved 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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