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Heavy Equipment Operator I Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO ยท 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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Heavy Equipment Operator I information

See salary details

$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator i 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.

How do I get into a Heavy Equipment Operator I?

To become a Heavy Equipment Operator I, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship program. Certification in equipment operation and a valid driver's license are often required, along with physical fitness and safety awareness for working in construction or industrial environments.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator I vs Heavy Equipment Operator II?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator IHeavy Equipment Operator II
CredentialsHigh school diploma, valid CDL or certification often preferredSame as Operator I, with additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, industrial facilitiesSimilar environments, often handling more complex tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesBasic operation of heavy machinery, routine maintenanceMore complex operations, supervising others, troubleshooting

Heavy Equipment Operator I and II roles share similar credentials and work environments, but Operator II typically involves more complex tasks and responsibilities. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of duties, with Operator II handling more advanced operations and supervision.

Can you make a lot of money as a heavy equipment operator I?

Heavy Equipment Operator I positions typically offer entry-level wages that can increase with experience, certifications, and specialization. While starting salaries may be modest, experienced operators with skills in operating advanced machinery and safety certifications can earn higher wages, especially in industries with high demand or overtime opportunities.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator I jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator I jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operator I job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operator I jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Operator I jobs include:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator I job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% 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.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison County

Gunnison, CO โ€ข On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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.