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Heavy Equipment Operator Operator Jobs in Rockingham, NC

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Rockingham, NC · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Description " Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Grading Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other structures * Cleans and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Grading Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will be doing Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other ...

Xylem Tree Experts

Jarraff Operator - Hamlet, NC

Hamlet, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

The Jarraff Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Always follow and help enforce safe practices and ...

Xylem I LLC

Jarraff Operator - Hamlet, NC

Hamlet, NC

$14.50 - $19/hr

The Jarraff Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Always follow and help enforce safe practices and ...

Globe Metallurgical

Dozer Operator

Wallace, SC · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Who we are What you will do As a Dozer Operator at Ferroglobe USA Quartz, you will play a vital ... Equipment Operation: Operate dozers and other heavy equipment in a safe, efficient manner to move ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Operator Jobs in Rockingham, NC

Heavy Equipment Operator Operator information

See Rockingham, NC salary details

$11

$19

$28

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator operator in Rockingham, NC is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators typically work in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators in high-demand industries like oil and gas, construction, or mining. Experienced operators with certifications, advanced skills, and the ability to operate complex machinery can earn salaries exceeding $70,000 to $100,000 annually, especially in regions with high cost of living or large-scale projects.

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 mining, pipeline construction, or operating large, complex machinery tend to earn the highest wages. Certifications, experience, and working in high-demand industries or remote locations can also increase earning potential for 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 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.

Can I operate heavy equipment without a CDL?

Heavy equipment operators typically do not need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, or loaders on construction sites. However, if the equipment requires driving on public roads or transporting it between sites, a CDL may be necessary. Certification in equipment operation and adherence to safety standards are also important for employment.

How much do heavy machine operators make?

Heavy equipment operators in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. Skilled operators with certifications in equipment like bulldozers or cranes may earn higher wages, especially in construction or infrastructure projects.
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC? For Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC are:
What cities near Rockingham, NC are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs? Cities near Rockingham, NC with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Operator job openings:
Heavy Equipment Operator Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Operator job openings in Rockingham, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,530 per year, or $20 per hour.
Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Asplundh Tree Expert

Raeford, NC

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 11 days ago

Asplundh Tree Expert rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 226 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

Description

"

Equipment Operator 

This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines.

Pay: Competitive, Hourly

Benefits:

  • Benefits Available and Vary per position and location

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

  • Plans, assigns, directs, checks, and coordinates work.
  • Operates and services equipment such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, power winches, mower deck, weed whacker, chipper, and sprayers.
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris.
  • Uses hand-tools, such as axes, hand-lines, saws, block and tackle, pruners and other equipment as required.
  • Sprays brush and stumps, making proper and selective application of herbicides.
  • Responsible for quality and quantity of production.
  • Performs all aspects of labor as necessary to keep crew operation flowing.
  • Ensures the overall safety, quality and production requirements of the crew are met.
  • Obtains written or oral permission from property owners to trim or remove trees or perform other work on property.
  • Arranges with customer or property owner to obtain access, advises of interruption, explains work to be done, etc.
  • Promotes and maintains good customer and public relations through the effective accomplishment of assigned work and the appropriate behavior of employees on the crew.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around work area.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and public.
  • Trains new personnel.
  • Keeps informed on new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Possesses working knowledge and be able to identify tree and shrub species.
  • Familiar with electrical hazards.

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.

Pre-Screen

  • Upon offer, employees may be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.

License & Certifications:

  • Driver License Required.

Travel Requirements:

  • Must have transportation to and from the show up location.

Physical Requirements:

  • RARE (less than 10%): sitting, kneeling, crawling, color vision, climbing stairs.
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): stooping, squatting, climbing on/off truck, reading, pushing, climbing ladders, lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): walking, body twisting, manual dexterity, speaking clearly, hearing-speech range, lifting, carrying, pulling, balancing, lifting up to 10 lbs.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): standing, sense of touch, seeing distant, climbing, gripping, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., seeing, reaching, range of motion, depth perception.

 Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.

"


Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees’ health, well-being, and financial security. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment. For more information on the benefits available for this role, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note:
  • All job offers are subject to pre-employment drug screening and a background check.
  • Unless otherwise noted, we do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Notice to Agencies: We only accept resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing services if a Service Agreement has been signed and we have requested recruitment/staffing services for the specific position. Any unsolicited resumes will become the property of the company, and no fees or compensation will be paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or staffing service.

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