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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Reston, VA

Run bobcat and/or mini excavator and/or Heavy equipment to trench, grade, and excavate * Complete other grading and excavation needs per the request of our clients Requirements: * Eligible for ...

Run bobcat and/or mini excavator and/or Heavy equipment to trench, grade, and excavate * Complete other grading and excavation needs per the request of our clients Requirements: * Eligible for ...

Run bobcat and/or mini excavator and/or Heavy equipment to trench, grade, and excavate * Complete other grading and excavation needs per the request of our clients Requirements: * Eligible for ...

Position requires the ability and aptitude to operate heavy construction equipment. DXI Construction is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, color ...

Showing results 21-40

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$24

$35

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprentice in Reston, VA is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How long is a heavy equipment operator apprentice program?

A heavy equipment operator apprentice program typically lasts between 1 to 3 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The duration may vary depending on the program's structure and the apprentice's progress, and it often includes earning certifications such as OSHA safety training.

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.

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 equivalent, complete basic safety and equipment operation training, and consider earning a relevant certification such as OSHA safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through volunteering or entry-level construction roles can also improve chances, as many employers value practical skills and a willingness to learn. Demonstrating reliability, physical fitness, and a strong work ethic can help you stand out to employers offering apprenticeship programs.

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 most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $51,320 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Posillico Civil, Inc.

Capitol Heights, MD โ€ข On-site

$29 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview
Martins Construction, a Posillico Company, is one of the Mid-Atlantic region's most prominent general contractors in heavy highway and bridge construction. Reinforcing that reputation is the commitment from our tightly-knit group of project managers and field crews who ensure that unmatched quality, value, and integrity are built into every one of our projects. Since 1993, Martins Construction has consistently tackled some of the region's largest and most challenging projects with safety, reliability, and efficiency. Our expertise span multiple core segments of the heavy highway and bridge construction arena, across Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC.
Responsibilities
Job Summary:
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive operation of heavy construction equipment in support of highway and bridge construction projects. This role involves material handling, excavation, grading, and site preparation while maintaining compliance with all safety regulations and project specifications.
Responsibilities:
  • Operate heavy construction equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, front-end loaders, and related machinery in a safe and efficient manner
  • Accurately maneuver equipment to excavate, grade, load, and place materials according to project requirements
  • Load and offload rocks, debris, and construction materials
  • Perform daily pre- and post-operation inspections to ensure equipment is in proper working condition
  • Maintain clean and organized equipment, including cleanup at the end of each shift
  • Comply with all OSHA regulations, company safety policies, and jobsite safety requirements
  • Coordinate with foremen, supervisors, spotters, and other crew members to ensure safe operations
  • Assist with general site tasks as needed when not operating equipment
  • Attend weekly toolbox talks and all other company safety meetings.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Foreman or Superintendent

Qualifications
Requirements, Qualifications & Skills:
  • Proven experience operating heavy construction equipment in a construction environment preferred
  • Strong safety awareness and ability to follow instructions
  • Good manual dexterity, balance, and hand-eye coordination
  • Follow oral and written directions and plans
  • Required to wear safety toe boots and four-inch sleeves on shirts, along with any additional PPE (hard hat, gloves, safety glasses, etc
  • Ability to pass drug screening, background check, and fit-for-duty tests. All employees are subject to randoms and reasonable suspicion drug testing
  • Valid driver's license

Physical & Environmental Requirements:
  • Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Handle physically demanding tasks (lifting, climbing, etc.).
  • Must be able to work on weekends and at night when needed, sometimes with limited notice.
  • Willingness to travel locally within the DMV area.

Reports to: Superintendent, while taking daily direction from field supervisor staff
Location: Falls Church, Virginia
Benefits: Competitive salary, medical and dental insurance, 401(K) with employer match, paid time off, and more!
Compensation: $29 to $34 per hour commensurate with skills and experience
Comprehensive benefits offered to eligible employees including medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; FSA; short- and long-term disability; identity theft protection; 401(k); employee assistance program; and paid time off.
Equal Employment Opportunity - Martins Construction is committed to maintaining a working environment that promotes teamwork and that is free of any and all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. Accordingly, all of its employment-related activities will be administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran and military status, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, domestic violence victim status, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, predisposing genetic characteristics or other legally protected personal characteristic.
Posillico Civil, Inc. together with its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners and joint ventures (collectively "Posillico") do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to Posillico or an employee of Posillico, by mail, electronically, or otherwise will be considered property of Posillico. Posillico will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. Posillico will consider any candidate for whom an Agency has submitted an unsolicited resume to have been referred by the Agency free of any charges or fees. As a condition for payment, an Agency shall have an agreement signed by an authorized Posillico representative. Verbal or written communications from any employee of Posillico shall not be considered binding obligations. All resumes whether unsolicited or solicited shall be the property of Posillico.