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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Colorado

Gunnison County

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Pay Rate Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits. Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49 ...

Gunnison County, CO

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$28.53 - $32.49/hr

Pay Rate Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits. Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49 ...

GUNNISON COUNTY

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Pay Rate Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits. Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49 ...

Duran Excavating, Inc.

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Duran Excavating is seeking experienced Heavy Equipment Operators proficient in operating excavators, loaders, and dozers. Candidates must have a solid background in waterline, sewer, storm utility ...

Summit County, CO

Heavy Equipment Operator

Frisco, CO · On-site

$28 - $31/hr

Road & Bridge Opening Date: 05/20/2026 Closing Date: 8/31/2026 4:59 PM Mountain Description Summit County's Road and Bridge Department is seeking seasonal full time Heavy Equipment Operators. Ability ...

ssc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator in Pueblo, CO * Full-time position * Schedule: 4 on 4 off/rotate days and nights every two weeks * 12 hour shifts - 6 am - 6 pm/ 6 pm-6 am * Pay Range $27.00-$31.00 per hour ...

Staff Experts LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

Staff Experts, LLC is currently seeking to fill Heavy Equipment Operator positions. If you are interested, please email us your resume and call 520-989-9270 to schedule an interview appointment. Job ...

ssc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pueblo, CO

$24 - $31/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator in Pueblo, CO * Full-time position * Schedule: 4 on 4 off/rotate days and nights every two weeks * 12 hour shifts - 6 am - 6 pm/ 6 pm-6 am * Pay Range $24.00-$31.00 per hour ...

Staff Experts

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

Staff Experts, LLC is currently seeking to fill Heavy Equipment Operator positions. If you are interested, please email us your resume and call 520-989-9270 to schedule an interview appointment. Job ...

Gould Construction

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team, specializing in excavation and utilities projects. The ideal candidate will have experience operating various types of heavy ...

Maximum Services Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

$28 - $45/hr

If you have experience operating heavy equipment and are committed to safety, efficiency, and quality work, we'd love to hear from you. Key Responsibilities: * Operate heavy equipment safely and ...

BELFOR Holdings

Heavy Equipment Operator

Arvada, CO

Under general supervision, the Equipment Operator must be proficient in heavy equipment operation relating to earthmoving activities, including but not limited to, support of remediation activities ...

BLS Electrical Inc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Windsor, CO · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Description POSITION SUMMARY The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy and light construction equipment-including excavators, bulldozers, loaders ...

BELFOR Holdings

Heavy Equipment Operator

Arvada, CO · On-site

Under general supervision, the Equipment Operator must be proficient in heavy equipment operation relating to earthmoving activities, including but not limited to, support of remediation activities ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice information

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$14

$24

$35

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprentice in Colorado is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $28.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a heavy equipment operator apprentice?

A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice is an individual who is learning to operate large machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, teaching safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and operational techniques. The goal is to gain the skills and experience necessary to become a certified heavy equipment operator. Apprenticeships typically last several years and may lead to full-time employment in construction, mining, or other industries that use heavy machinery.

What types of equipment and tasks can a heavy equipment operator apprentice expect to handle during their apprenticeship?

As a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice, you will typically work with a variety of machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and graders under the supervision of experienced operators. Your daily responsibilities may include basic equipment operation, routine maintenance checks, adhering to safety protocols, and assisting with site preparation or cleanup. Apprentices often rotate between different tasks and machines to gain broad hands-on experience, preparing them for more advanced roles. Collaboration with other crew members and learning from mentors is a vital part of the apprenticeship, helping you develop both technical and teamwork skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operator apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety protocols, and often OSHA certification or training in equipment-specific systems is valuable. Strong attention to detail, communication, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills for success in this hands-on role. These qualities ensure safe, efficient operation and the ability to progress to more advanced responsibilities in the field.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator ApprenticeHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training or apprenticeship programsRequires completion of apprenticeship or certification, with experience in operating heavy machinery
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction, and industrial settings under supervisionFull responsibility for operating equipment on construction sites, mining, or infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers hire apprentices to train and develop skills in construction, mining, and infrastructure sectorsExperienced operators employed in similar industries, responsible for safe and efficient equipment operation

The main difference is that a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while a Heavy Equipment Operator is fully qualified and responsible for operating machinery independently. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for a career as a fully licensed operator, ensuring safety and proficiency in the field.

How to get a heavy equipment operator apprentice job with no experience?

To secure a heavy equipment operator apprentice position with no experience, applicants should focus on obtaining a high school diploma or GED, demonstrate physical fitness, and learn basic equipment operation through training programs or online courses. Many employers offer on-the-job training and look for candidates with a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and safety awareness; obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can also improve chances.

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Colorado?

For Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,871 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison County

Gunnison, CO • On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description:

Who We Are

Gunnison County cherishes its sense of community and place. The County strives to preserve and promote the well-being of the County’s citizens, natural environment, and rural character. The County will deliver services and set standards that reflect its values and preserve the region’s unique quality of life for present and future generations to enjoy. Gunnison County is governed by an elected three member Board of County Commissioners serving four-year overlapping terms.


Perks of the Gunnison Valley

"The Gunnison Valley is famous for both summer and winter outdoor recreation. In summer, explore the two million acres of public lands by hiking and mountain biking. In winter, alpine skiing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort is unmatched. There are dozens of miles of scenic cross-country ski trails, too. You’ll find great restaurants, shopping, arts and events in the valley’s unique mountain towns" For more information on what the valley offers, visit the Gunnison & Crested Butte website here.


Benefits

• Housing is held for Gunnison County Employees and may be available for you to rent

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

• Vacation Leave: based on years of service starting at 8 hours/month

• Sick Leave: 8 hours for each month of service

• Dependent Care FSA

• FSA and HSA

• Employer Paid Basic Life Insurance 1x Annual Salary

• Employer Paid Norton LifeLock Membership

• Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance, including spouse and children

• Employee Assistance Program

• Mandatory 401(a) 3% Contribution to CRA - Empower Retirement.

• 401(a) 3% Employer Contribution match

• Voluntary 457(b) Pre-tax or After-tax Contribution to CRA - Empower Retirement.

• 457(b) Up to a 3% Employer Contribution match

• Discounted Pet Insurance, and Gym Memberships


Job Summary

The Gunnison County Public Works Department is now accepting applications for a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator I. The opening is a 40 hour per week position with full benefits. This position operates a wide variety of light, medium, and limited heavy equipment used in the maintenance and construction of County roads. Also performs manual tasks associated with equipment operations and road maintenance and construction. Performs operator required maintenance on all equipment used.


Pay Rate


Heavy Equipment Operator I: hourly range is from $24.19 to $27.54, depending on experience, plus full benefits.


Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49, depending on experience, plus full benefits.


*The County pays monthly on the last week day of the month.*


Heavy Equipment Operator I: view the full job description here.


Heavy Equipment Operator II: view the full job description here.


Hiring Manager

Gunnison County Public Works

Phone: (970) 641-0044


Anticipated Job Posting Close Date

Open until filled.

Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license.
  • Must complete ICS 100 and ICS 700 within the first year of employment.
  • Valid Class B CDL with tanker endorsement preferred.
  • Current flagging certification.
  • Willingness to participate in and complete certification for MSHA Part 46.
  • Willingness to take and successfully complete a First Aid class, CPR class, and other specialized or safety training that may be offered by the Public Works Department or other training facility.
  • Willingness to take additional training such as Road Scholar classes, etc. to improve job skills.

Qualifications

Education and experience:


Graduation from high school education or GED equivalent, and Two (2) years of experience relating to construction, maintenance, or repair, or Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Apply