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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Delaware

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dover, DE · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Stuart Contractors LLC is seeking a highly skilled and enthusiastic Heavy Equipment Operator to join our dynamic team. This full-time position offers a competitive rate of $24 to $28 per hour , based ...

The Heavy Equipment Operator must have experience in operation of excavators, loaders, dozers or site dumps Position requires the ability and aptitude to operate heavy construction equipment Grading ...

Join Waste Connections as a Heavy Equipment Operator at ourLandfill in Angleton, TX named Seabreeze Landfill. In this position you will be operating our Dozers, Excavators, Compactor, along with ...

Join Waste Connections as a Heavy Equipment Operator at ourLandfill in Angleton, TX named Seabreeze Landfill. In this position you will be operating our Dozers, Excavators, Compactor, along with ...

Equipment Operator

Frankford, DE · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR BENEFITS: * Competitive salary packages and bonuses * Competitive health, vision, dental and life insurance, as well as, disability benefits * 100% of health premiums paid by ...

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Showing results 1-20

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice information

See Delaware salary details

$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprentice in Delaware is $23.74, 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 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 Delaware?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,372 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dover, DE • On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Stuart Contractors LLC is seeking a highly skilled and enthusiastic Heavy Equipment Operator to join our dynamic team. This full-time position offers a competitive rate of $24 to $28 per hour, based on skills and experience. You will be offered great benefits such as health insurance (Dental and Vision), a 401(k) with match, paid travel, PTO, overtime pay, performance reviews, opportunities for professional growth, and NO layoffs during the winter months. Apply now and take the next step in your construction career!

THE GROWTH YOU HELP PROVIDE AS A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

This full-time position will work from 7 am - 4 pm, Monday - Friday. We provide opportunities for overtime!

In this position, your main responsibility will be to operate multiple types of power construction equipment to excavate, move, and grade materials according to the specifications of each individual job. Depending on the needs of the project and our team, you'll assist with many different construction tasks and operate a variety of heavy equipment, such as excavators, mini-excavators, multi-terrain track loaders, mini-skidsteers, wheel loaders, dozers, rollers, and more. Every day will be different!

OUR IDEAL HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

We're looking for someone who can meet the following qualifications:

  • 2+ years of experience offering heavy equipment
  • Experience operating an excavator
  • Reliable transportation
  • 1+ years of civil site work experience is preferred but not required

WHAT SETS US APART

At Stuart Contractors LLC, we're more than just a construction company; we're builders of a sustainable future. Our mission is to deliver top-quality construction projects, with a commitment to safety and innovation. We value teamwork, safety, and growth, fostering a culture where every team member is empowered to reach their full potential.

HOW TO JOIN US

If you feel that this job is what you're looking for, applying is easy - just follow the instructions on this page. We know your time is valuable, so we've kept the application process short and sweet. You should be able to complete it in less than 5 minutes.