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Heavy Equipment Operator Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North ... Crush, load, and unload items using heavy equipment. * Safely clean equipment when jams occur

Decatur Utilities

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$27/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Gas/Water/Wastewater Operations Employment Type: Full Time Location: 10th Avenue Service Center Reporting To: GWWW Field Superintendent Compensation: Starting Pay $27 ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools • Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Shredder & other metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools • Physical Demand Level: Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory ...

Reworld

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operating forklifts, front-end-loaders, street sweeper, automated feed system, and other equipment. * Perform equipment inspections. * Monitor vehicle activity on the tipping floor. * Take ...

Reworld

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Operating forklifts, front-end-loaders, street sweeper, automated feed system, and other equipment. * Perform equipment inspections. * Monitor vehicle activity on the tipping floor. * Take ...

Amteck, LLC

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Madison, AL

$17 - $23.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in Lawrenceburg, KY. You will be responsible for operating and maintaining various electrical construction equipment at job ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Heavy Equipment Operator Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator operator in Decatur, AL is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do heavy equipment operators make?

Heavy equipment operators in the region typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in construction or mining environments tend to earn higher wages and may receive additional benefits or overtime pay.

What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Equipment Operators on construction sites?

Heavy Equipment Operators often face challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, working on uneven or difficult terrain, and maintaining safety while operating large machinery around other workers. Navigating tight spaces and coordinating with ground crews and other operators requires strong communication skills and attention to detail. Additionally, staying up to date with maintenance protocols for equipment helps prevent breakdowns and ensures project timelines are met.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), OSHA certificationsCrane operator certification, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, landscapingConstruction sites, industrial settings, shipping yards
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, agricultureConstruction, shipping, industrial manufacturing

Both roles require specialized certifications and involve operating heavy machinery in construction or industrial environments. While Heavy Equipment Operators handle bulldozers, loaders, and excavators, Crane Operators focus on lifting and moving heavy loads with cranes. The roles often overlap in construction projects but differ in equipment specialization and certification requirements.

Which heavy equipment operator pays the most?

Heavy equipment operators working in specialized fields such as crane, excavator, or bulldozer operation often earn higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved. Operators with advanced certifications, extensive experience, and those working in high-demand industries or remote locations tend to receive higher pay. Overall, crane operators typically have some of the highest salaries among heavy equipment operators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator, you need proficiency in operating machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and specialized training or certification. Familiarity with GPS systems, safety protocols, and maintenance procedures for various equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation of heavy machinery on construction sites, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

Heavy equipment operators with specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications can sometimes earn around $700 per day, especially in high-demand industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas. These roles often require operating large machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, or excavators and may involve overtime or hazardous conditions to reach higher daily pay rates.

How do I get into operating heavy equipment?

To become a heavy equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Many operators obtain certification through vocational schools or industry associations, and must be comfortable working in various environments and operating machinery safely and efficiently.

What is a Heavy Equipment Operator?

A Heavy Equipment Operator is a skilled professional who operates large machinery used in construction, mining, and other industrial projects. These machines include bulldozers, excavators, loaders, cranes, and more. Operators are responsible for safely moving earth, materials, or equipment according to project specifications. They require specialized training and certifications to manage the complex controls and ensure safety on site.
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Operator job openings:
Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs near you
Travel Equipment Operator

Travel Equipment Operator

SA Recycling

Decatur, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 75 rated recycling and waste

Job description

SA Recycling is one of the largest scrap metal recyclers in the United States. We are growing, growing, growing! Our operations are quickly expanding.
SA Recycling proudly supports the military community
We are looking for a Travel Equipment Operator. Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North Alabama Region to help crush and load material. Must have a working cell phone, good driving record and their own pickup truck to transport fuel/tools and any other job-related accessories for the job site. We pay Mileage reimbursement Per Diem, and a phone stipend. Must be very reliable and able to travel throughout the North Alabama Region. This position will work outside in various weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.
Job Duties Including, but not limited to:
  • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work habits for car crushing
  • Basic knowledge of maintenance using had tools so that malfunctions can be detected and handled quickly.
  • Lift raw materials, Car crushing, finished products, and packed items, manually or using hoists.
  • Crush, load, and unload items using heavy equipment.
  • Safely clean equipment when jams occur
  • Follow all procedures e.g. LOTOTO, Fall Prevention, and Fire Prevention
  • Cleanup work area at the end of shift
  • Organizing materials to have more effective use of space
  • Dispose of various waste materials in the appropriate manner
  • Inspection to ensure cleanup is completed

Qualifications
  • Must have a working cell phone, a valid Driver's License and own transportation with paid Mileage, Phone stipend and paid per diem
  • Must be experienced with loader, excavator and understand their capabilities and limitations
  • Regular attendance and punctuality are an essential qualification
  • Must pass a background check, medical physical, and drug test
  • Preferred - high school diploma or GED and/or foreign education acceptable
  • Bi-lingual (English & Spanish) language skills a plus
  • Ability to: communicate with others effectively; understand direction (written or oral) and use basic math skills as the job demands
  • Must be very safety conscientious

Job Expectations
Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.
Physical Requirements
  • Work Environment: Scrap metal Recycling and shredder yards
  • Equipment & Tools: metal processing equipment, Hoists, hydraulic motors, mechanics tools
  • Physical Demand sit stand crouch bend
  • Work Capacity: Lifting & carrying 35lb loads, head turning, bending, kneeling, climbing ladders and sitting for long periods.
    • Sensory Demands: Hearing, vision, touch, smell and taste
    • Hand Movements: Repetitive motions, gripping,

SA Recycling offers:
  • Competitive Pay
  • Choice of 2 Medical plans, with Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Eligible for Safety and Profitability Bonuses

PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.
An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified).
All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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