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Heavy Equipment Operator Mining Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Gridworks

Heavy Equipment Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

This role is responsible for operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently to support site development, material movement, and project completion. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable ...

New

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$21.33 - $23.70/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Operate heavy equipment to load and unload shipping containers from railcars and trucks. * Drive ...

ConGlobal

Intermodal Equipment Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$21.33 - $23.70/hr

As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ... Operate heavy equipment to load and unload shipping containers from railcars and trucks. * Drive ...

Mortenson

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

M. A. Mortenson Company

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

GCC

MINING ENGINEER

Tijeras, NM · On-site

$87K - $100K/yr

Inspect mining areas for unsafe structures, equipment and working conditions. * Support management ... and operating the mine(s). * Prepare technical reports for use by management and outside ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Mining JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Mining Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Heavy Equipment Operator Mining information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator mining in Rio Rancho, NM is $22.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a heavy equipment operator in mining do?

A Heavy Equipment Operator in mining is responsible for safely operating large machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and haul trucks to move earth, minerals, and other materials at mining sites. They help with tasks like clearing land, digging, transporting mined materials, and maintaining haul roads. Operators must follow strict safety protocols, perform routine equipment checks, and communicate effectively with team members to ensure efficient and safe mining operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operator in mining?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator in mining, you need expertise in operating large machinery such as excavators, loaders, and haul trucks, along with a high school diploma or equivalent and, often, specialized operator certifications. Familiarity with safety systems, GPS guidance technology, and maintenance protocols is typically required in this role. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and productive operations in challenging and potentially hazardous mining environments.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by heavy equipment operators in a mining environment?

Heavy Equipment Operators in mining often work in physically demanding and remote environments, which can include extreme weather conditions and rugged terrain. Safety is a primary concern due to the presence of large machinery and the need to follow strict operational protocols to prevent accidents. Operators must also adapt to shift work, including nights and weekends, and collaborate closely with other team members such as engineers, safety officers, and maintenance crews to ensure smooth and safe operations. Being able to quickly troubleshoot equipment issues and communicate effectively with the team are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Mining vs Heavy Equipment Operator Construction?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator MiningHeavy Equipment Operator Construction
Work EnvironmentMining sites, open-pit or underground minesConstruction sites, buildings, infrastructure projects
CertificationsHeavy equipment operation licenses, possibly mine-specific safety certificationsStandard construction equipment licenses, OSHA safety training
Equipment UsedExcavators, bulldozers, haul trucks, draglinesExcavators, loaders, bulldozers, cranes
Industry UsageMining companies, resource extraction industriesConstruction firms, infrastructure development

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery, Heavy Equipment Operator Mining focuses on working in mining environments with specialized safety and equipment requirements. In contrast, Heavy Equipment Operator Construction is centered around building infrastructure in urban and rural settings. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and equipment used.

What is a heavy equipment operator mining?

A heavy equipment operator in mining is a worker who operates large machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders to move earth, minerals, and other materials. They typically need specialized training, certifications, and knowledge of safety protocols to work efficiently in mining environments.

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Mining jobs in Rio Rancho, NM?

For Heavy Equipment Operator Mining jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Mining jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Mining jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

Heavy Equipment Operator Mining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Mining job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,400 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gridworks Energy Group

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Equipment Operator - Renewable Energy Projects
Gridworks is seeking an Equipment Operator to support the successful execution of construction and solar projects. This role is responsible for operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently to support site development, material movement, and project completion.
The ideal candidate is safety-focused, dependable, and comfortable working in dynamic outdoor environments. This position plays a key role in ensuring jobsite productivity, equipment reliability, and adherence to company safety standards.
About the Company
Established in 2014, Gridworks is a leading EPC contractor for utility-scale solar and battery storage projects. Primarily operating across the Southwest, we are expanding into other regions. With nearly 3 GW of solar and battery energy storage projects, we are well positioned for continued success in the rapidly growing clean energy sector.
Roles and Responsibilities
• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, loaders, forklifts, scrapers, and water trucks to support construction activities
• Perform excavation, grading, material handling, and site preparation
• Ensure equipment is operated safely and in compliance with company policies and procedures
• Conduct routine inspections, maintenance checks, and basic servicing of equipment
• Identify and report mechanical issues or major repair needs
• Load and unload equipment from trailers and transport vehicles
• Maintain a clean and organized jobsite, equipment, and materials
• Support environmental and safety initiatives by following best practices
• Assist with general site tasks and contribute to overall project success
• Attend required trainings and team meetings
• Perform other duties as assigned
Work Environment & Physical Demands
• Work is performed outdoors in varying weather conditions and temperatures
• Requires prolonged periods of operating heavy machinery
• Ability to walk, stand, sit, bend, and stoop throughout the day
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in varied terrain and jobsite conditions
Qualifications and Requirements:
• 5 + years of equipment operation experience
• Degrees or courses from vocational schools in construction equipment operation and maintenance add an extra edge.
• Hand and foot coordination: You must coordinate movements of your hands and feet in order to guide very large machinery in tight places.
• Operation Monitoring: You'll have to read gauges, dials, and other indicators, and adjust them as necessary.
• Interpersonal skills and teamwork: You must be able to coordinate your actions with those of other workers on busy construction sites.
• Critical thinking: Your job will require that you identify the strengths and weaknesses of solutions to problems in order to choose the one that is most likely to be successful and cost-effective.
• Troubleshooting: Anyone operating equipment should be able to detect and fix operating problems.
• Experience in general construction and workplace safety practices
• Insurability must have clean driving record, and valid drivers' license.
• Ability to travel to/from job site, reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass background check and pre-employment and random drug screenings.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Gridworks is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and business needs, without regard to any protected status.

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