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Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Walmart

Power Equipment Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$20.55 - $24.05/hr

Hourly Wage: $20.55 - $24.05 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly ...

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 ...

RMS Cranes

Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Compensation based on experience and 7 days a week Per Diem Summary: Ensures safety first, along ... Operate complex equipment safely and efficiently according to company safety and policies.

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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 Aug 6, 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

More about Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Per Diem jobs? 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,400 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - 100% Travel

Spriggs Excavation, Inc

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator
This position is full time and 100% travel within the central United States.
Location: 100% Travel
Salary Range: $25.00-$30.00 DOE
Spriggs Excavation is recruiting for a full-time, 100% travel position. This role requires continuous travel to project sites across multiple states based on business needs and project schedules. Employees in this position should expect to be assigned to one location for an extended period-such as several months at a time-before transitioning to another project in a different state. For example, an assignment may begin in Texas, then move to Colorado, and later transition to New Mexico. Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to work wherever projects are located are essential requirements of this role.
At Spriggs Excavation, Inc., we don't just dig the dirt-we redefine it. Our mission is to deliver top-notch results, safely, powered by our all-star team. With over 20 years of stellar performance, we've built a reputation for quality, reliability, and safety that's anything but ordinary. Operating across the Rocky Mountains to the Midwest, we leverage cutting-edge technology and seasoned expertise in mass excavation, renewable energy, electrical substations, remediation, and residential projects. Having moved over two million cubic yards of dirt in a single project, we demonstrate our ability to tackle even the most demanding assignments. We take pride in our diverse culture and core values of Safety, Teamwork, Professionalism, Accountability, and Integrity, which we live every day. These values guide our work and help us continue delivering exceptional results.
Description
Spriggs Excavation is a General Civil Contractor operating primarily in the Rocky Mountain, Western, and Midwest regions. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and an experienced team to specialize in electrical substation, renewable energy, and residential excavation projects. We have demonstrated our commitment to quality, performance, and safety with over 15 years of superior performance. We live our Core Values: Safety, Teamwork, Professionalism, Accountability, and Integrity.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Spriggs Excavation, Inc. has an excellent opportunity for an experienced operator to join our team of professionals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in heavy equipment operation, be safety focused, motivated, and driven. We are offering a competitive salary based on experience, along with an outstanding benefits package. This is the perfect opportunity to build a career at a thriving construction firm. Spriggs Excavation values individuals with a positive attitude, a good work ethic and a desire to be part of a great team.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Daily machine inspection, check fluids, wear parts, tires, glass, and general condition of the machinery assigned to use. Report issues and maintenance required immediately.
  • SAFELY and productively operate machinery assigned. Adapt to changing environment including traffic, soil conditions and weather.
  • Utilize GPS systems, read and understand grade stakes, hubs for grade control, and finishing.
  • Manage materials efficiently whether excavating, loading, placing materials, grading, or installing utilities.

Qualifications/Job Requirements
  • Must be willing to labor and help the crew.
  • 3 years' experience operating heavy earthmoving equipment (motor grader, scraper, dozer, excavator)
  • 1 year of industry specific related equipment operation experience.
  • Ability to interact effectively and professionally with all levels of employees, clients, contractors, and vendors etc.
  • Proficiency in spoken and written English is a mandatory requirement for this role, as it is essential for understanding work instructions, safety protocols, and participating in team communications.

What we Offer:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Company-paid life and AD&D insurance
  • Company-paid long-term disability insurance
  • Voluntary group life insurance
  • Supplemental insurance through AFLAC
  • Pet Insurance
  • Legal Insurance & ID Theft Protection
  • GSA Per Diem
  • Matched Retirement
  • Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Competitive Pay
  • 6 Paid Holidays
  • Bonus Program

Prior to your start date, we require successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check and drug test.

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