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Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Earth Systems LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Midland, TX · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Crew Leader / Project Manager / Operations Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator - Environmental Remediation is responsible for the safe and efficient ...

Earth Systems LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Midland, TX · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Crew Leader / Project Manager / Operations Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The Heavy Equipment Operator - Environmental Remediation is responsible for the safe and efficient ...

Hill Country Construction LLC

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator - Demolition We're looking for an experienced heavy equipment operator to join our demolition crew. This role is responsible for safely operating equipment to demolish ...

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Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator ... Collaborate with crew members and communicate effectively for safe and coordinated operations ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator ... Collaborate with crew members and communicate effectively for safe and coordinated operations ...

Best Tree Service

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Abilene, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operator will be responsible for operating various types of heavy machinery to ... Coordinate closely with a significant amount of crew members to execute project tasks safely and ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader Jobs

Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader information

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How much do heavy equipment operator crew leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator crew leader 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 is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator Crew LeaderHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications, leadership trainingOSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentSupervises crews on construction sites, manages safety and workflowOperates heavy machinery on construction sites
Job RoleLeads and coordinates equipment operators, ensures project progressOperates machinery to complete tasks

The main difference is that Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leaders oversee and coordinate teams of operators, focusing on leadership and project management, while Heavy Equipment Operators primarily focus on operating machinery. Crew Leaders require additional leadership skills and certifications, whereas Operators concentrate on technical operation skills.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader, you need advanced equipment operation skills, supervisory experience, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant certifications. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and GPS-based grade control systems is commonly required, along with OSHA safety certifications. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial for effectively managing crews and ensuring safety on site. These skills and qualities are essential for maintaining productivity, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting a safe, efficient work environment.

What are the typical challenges faced by a heavy equipment operator crew leader when managing a team on large construction sites?

As a Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader, one of the main challenges is coordinating multiple operators and ensuring that all equipment is used efficiently and safely. You may also need to address varying skill levels within your crew and provide on-the-spot training or guidance. Managing tight project timelines while navigating unexpected site conditions or equipment issues is common. Effective communication with project managers, safety officers, and other trades is crucial for smooth operations and meeting project goals.

What is a heavy equipment operator crew leader?

Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leaders are experienced professionals who oversee teams of equipment operators on construction or industrial sites. They are responsible for coordinating the operation of machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, ensuring that safety protocols are followed and projects stay on schedule. In addition to operating heavy equipment themselves, crew leaders provide training, delegate tasks, and address any issues that arise during the workday. Their leadership helps maintain efficiency and safety on the job site.
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What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader jobs are:
Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Crew Leader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Lead Equipment Operator / Crew Leader

JGR Development Group

Greensboro, NC • On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

JGR Development Group is seeking an experienced Lead Equipment Operator / Crew Leader to join our growing utility and sitework division.

This position is responsible for operating equipment, leading field crews, coordinating daily work activities, and helping ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and professionally.

The ideal candidate is a strong operator who can also communicate effectively, lead by example, and work well with others.

Responsibilities

  • Operate excavators, loaders, skid steers, rollers, and other heavy equipment
  • Lead and direct field crews on utility and sitework projects
  • Coordinate daily production activities
  • Work with project management to execute project schedules
  • Read plans, grade stakes, and utility layouts
  • Install water, sewer, and storm drainage systems
  • Track production quantities and material deliveries
  • Maintain a safe and productive jobsite
  • Train and develop crew members

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of utility, grading, or sitework experience
  • Strong excavator operating experience
  • Experience leading crews and managing daily field activities
  • Ability to read construction plans and grade stakes
  • Experience installing water, sewer, and storm drainage systems
  • Strong communication and leadership skills
  • Ability to motivate and develop team members
  • Valid driver's license required
  • CDL preferred

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who can:

  • Lead by example
  • Communicate professionally
  • Hold crews accountable
  • Solve problems in the field
  • Build quality work without creating conflict

Technical ability is important, but the ability to lead people and work as part of a team is equally important.

Compensation

  • $35-$50+ per hour based on experience
  • Company vehicle opportunity for the right candidate
  • Paid holidays
  • PTO
  • Growth opportunities
  • Long-term career path with a growing contractor

Company Description

JGR Development Group is a leading, state‐certified utility and sitework contractor based in North Carolina. Since 2020, we’ve specialized in comprehensive water and sewer infrastructure solutions—ranging from emergency on‐call repairs to large‐scale main replacements and lateral installations—as well as grading, asphalt & concrete restoration, and stormwater management. Our projects span municipal, commercial, and residential sectors across the southeast, and beyond.