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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Georgia

M&M Recycling

Heavy Equipment Operator

Locust Grove, GA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Scrap Metal Recycling M&M Recycling is looking for an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. This is a hands-on production role for an operator who knows ...

Akima, LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fort Stewart, GA · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining material handling equipment (MHE) and construction-type machinery in support of Army equipment turn-in operations. This role ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice information

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

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprentice in Georgia is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $22.74 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 Georgia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Georgia 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 Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,653 per year, or $20 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Capital Waste Services LLC

Chatsworth, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Description:

CWS is a leading provider of waste management services throughout South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and Florida areas. We are committed to providing superior customer service with our emphasis on integrity, reliability and cleanliness. We invest in our community, our customers and our employees by providing access to state-of-the-art systems and processes, and the best leadership in the business!


POSITION SUMMARY: The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment at a recycling center, landfill or transfer station for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering, loading and/or compacting waste or soil in an efficient and safe manner.


Heavy Equipment Operator PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform pre- and post-operation inspection of the equipment in accordance with Company policy to ensure windows, lights, mirrors and rearview camera are clean. Safely and efficiently operate equipment that may include: forklift, excavator, bulldozer, front-end loader and other equipment using proper safety standards.
  • Continuously monitor waste for evidence of unacceptable waste in materials.
  • Continuously monitor the condition of the equipment to ensure it is operationally ready at all times to minimize down time; clean tracks or wheels on equipment, as needed.
  • Perform and document minor service on equipment, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Maintenance Shop for repair.
  • Complete Equipment Condition Report and other reports, as necessary; report any necessary repairs to supervisor, as needed.
  • Follow all required safety policies and procedures.
  • Ensure that shop is clean, serviced and stored at the completion of each shift.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Heavy Equipment Operator QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Good customer services skills to meet and exceed customer expectations; acts in a professional, courteous and cooperative manner toward customers and co-workers; works with a sense of honesty and trustworthiness.
  • Good time management skills to ensure assigned responsibilities are completed in an efficient and safe manner.
  • Good follow through ability; ability to adhere to work schedule and follows through on challenges as they arise.
  • Ability to adhere to Company policies and rules set forth; promotes the Company’s safety standards; does not take inappropriate risks.
  • Maintains a feeling of pride in work; strives to achieve all goals.
  • High School diploma or GED.

Heavy Equipment Operator MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Two years of prior related experience in heavy equipment operation.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

  • What is your experience surrounding dozers, excavators, or similar equipment and in what industry?

Experience:

  • Dozer: 3 years (Preferred)
  • Excavator: 3 years (Preferred)
  • Solid waste management: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Requirements:

Heavy Equipment Operator MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • Two years of prior related experience in heavy equipment operation.