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Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem 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 ...

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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 ...

UNMHSCHS

PHYSICAL THERAPIST PER DIEM

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

EDUCATION - Educate patient in use of specialized equipment, posture control, and therapeutic ... Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force ...

Orthopt

PHYSICAL THERAPIST PER DIEM

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

EDUCATION - Educate patient in use of specialized equipment, posture control, and therapeutic ... Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Per Diem JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Per Diem Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator per diem 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 is a heavy equipment operator per diem?

Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs involve operating machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, or loaders on a temporary or as-needed basis, often for construction, mining, or industrial projects. The term 'per diem' refers to daily allowances or payments to cover expenses like meals and lodging when working away from home. These roles typically require specialized training and certifications, and offer flexibility for workers who prefer short-term or travel-based assignments. Per diem positions can be attractive due to higher pay rates and additional benefits compared to standard, full-time roles.

How can I get a job as a heavy equipment operator per diem?

To get a heavy equipment operator per diem job, you need to be licensed to handle large machinery. Licensing requirements vary by state and depend on the type of equipment that you operate. For example, heavy box trucks require the driver to hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL). There are no formal education requirements for this position, though most have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. You may take training courses through a vocational school or acquire an apprenticeship with a construction contractor or trade union. Some start their careers with an entry-level position at a job site and shadow heavy equipment operators to learn how to maneuver large machines and work their way up to per diem jobs.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience operating various types of heavy machinery, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with appropriate state or OSHA certification. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and safety management systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working safely and efficiently on job sites. These abilities ensure safe operations, minimize downtime, and contribute to the successful completion of projects on schedule.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy equipment operators working on per diem assignments?

Heavy Equipment Operators on per diem assignments often need to quickly adapt to new work sites, varying equipment, and different team dynamics. The temporary nature of these roles may require frequent travel, adjusting to different safety protocols, and rapidly learning site-specific procedures. Building strong communication skills is essential for collaborating effectively with site supervisors and other crew members, especially when joining a new team for a short duration. Staying updated on equipment certifications and maintaining flexibility helps ensure success in these dynamic work environments.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator Per DiemHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsOSHA certifications, CDL often preferredOSHA certifications, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentProject sites, construction, mining, oil & gasProject sites, construction, mining, oil & gas
Employment TypePer diem, temporary, often travel-basedFull-time, permanent or temporary
UsageTraveling jobs with daily per diem paySteady employment at specific sites

While both roles require similar certifications and work in construction or industrial sites, Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem typically involves traveling to various project locations with daily allowances, whereas Heavy Equipment Operator often refers to a permanent or steady position at a single site.

Which heavy equipment operator per diem job pays the most?

The highest-paying heavy equipment operator per diem jobs are typically in industries like oil and gas, construction, or mining, where specialized skills such as operating large machinery and working in remote locations are required. These positions often offer higher daily rates due to the demanding environment and the need for certifications like OSHA or NCCER. Rates can vary based on experience, location, and project duration, with some roles paying over $300 per day.
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For Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem 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

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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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