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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Geary County

Heavy Equipment Operator

Junction City, KS

$22.45/hr

Trainee: 30 - $21.38/hr. Reports To: Road and Bridge Supervisor PCN: VARIOUS Department: Public Works Department Date: February 2020 JOB SUMMARY The job duties of the skilled Heavy Equipment Operator ...

Harwell & Company

Heavy Equipment Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Job Summary We have an immediate opening for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Candidates should have at least one year of experience operating a variety of heavy equipment ...

3 Forks Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

We are currently seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing organization. In this position, you will be responsible for operating equipment to help build roads, oil field locations ...

Patterson-UTI

Equipment Operator - Williston, ND

Williston, ND · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

... Trainee, successfully meeting all competency requirements * External Applicants: 6+ months' experience as an Equipment Operator in fracturing industry * Experience in repair and maintenance of heavy ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

Washington, PA · On-site

$30.36/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site ...

Condustrial, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ladson, SC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for one of our trusted clients in the Ladson, SC area. This is a great opportunity for an experienced professional looking to stay busy on long-term ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee information

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

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator trainee in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long is the training to become a heavy equipment operator?

Training for a heavy equipment operator typically lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the program and the complexity of equipment. It often includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and safety certification, such as OSHA training. Some employers also require apprenticeships or on-the-job training to gain full proficiency.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and the use of GPS or telematics systems, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications, are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a willingness to learn are vital soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure safe, efficient operation of heavy machinery and contribute to a productive and accident-free work environment.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Heavy equipment operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as training is provided on the job. However, employers typically look for a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and the ability to obtain necessary certifications such as OSHA safety training. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level roles can improve job prospects.

What does a Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee do?

A Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee learns to operate machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes under the supervision of experienced operators. Their responsibilities include assisting with equipment maintenance, understanding safety protocols, and gaining hands-on practice with different types of heavy machinery. Trainees typically receive both classroom instruction and on-the-job training to develop their skills and prepare for certification or full operator roles.

How much do beginner operators make?

Beginner heavy equipment operator trainees typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on the region and industry. Entry-level operators often start with basic skills and may need certification or training on specific machinery like bulldozers or excavators to increase earning potential.

How to start out as a heavy equipment operator?

To start as a heavy equipment operator trainee, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, then complete a training program or apprenticeship that includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience with machinery. Many employers also require a valid driver's license and may prefer candidates with basic knowledge of safety procedures and equipment operation. Certification from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) can improve job prospects.

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

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator TraineeHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma and basic safety trainingRequires completion of training, certifications, and experience
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training sites, construction, and industrial sitesSame as trainee, with more independence and responsibility
Employer UsageEntry-level position for training and skill developmentSkilled worker operating heavy machinery independently

In summary, a Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee is in the learning phase, focusing on gaining skills and certifications, while a Heavy Equipment Operator is a fully qualified worker with experience and independence in operating machinery.

What does the typical training process look like for a Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, and how is on-the-job learning structured?

As a Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, you can expect a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training under the supervision of experienced operators. The initial weeks often focus on safety protocols, equipment maintenance basics, and learning to operate various machines in controlled environments. You'll gradually move to more complex tasks and real job sites, where you'll shadow seasoned operators and receive regular feedback on your performance. Training is typically structured to build your confidence and technical skills progressively, ensuring readiness for independent operation and advancement within the team.
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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Stormwater Services - Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, I, II - Stormwater Utility

cityofabilene

Abilene, TX

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

03.11.2025 BC

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Under supervision, perform a variety of skilled work in the operation, maintenance, construction and care of the City’s stormwater infrastructure, equipment, and machinery. This position involves manual work in the performance of various tasks to improve drainage and flood control within Abilene, operation & minor maintenance of all Stormwater Utility Division construction and heavy equipment.   

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee and I under immediate supervision; requires skilled work, tact and the ability to meet rough grades.

Heavy Equipment Operator II is an advanced journey level position under general supervision; requiring the ability to perform highly skilled work that meets finished engineered grades.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee exercises no supervision.

Heavy Equipment Operator I may function as a crew leader on small projects or in small work groups and in the absence of the Heavy Equipment Operator II. This position exercises technical and functional supervision over assigned Equipment Operators.

Heavy Equipment Operator II functions as a crew leader on assigned operations. This position exercises technical and functional supervision over assigned Heavy Equipment Operators and Equipment Operator Trainees.

IMPORTANT AND ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Skilled knowledge of maintenance operations performed in rough terrain, creeks and stormwater drainage infrastructure including project oversight, mowing, street sweeping and herbicide application.

Advanced knowledge in the general operation and servicing of all Stormwater utility division construction equipment. Ability to perform minor preventive maintenance servicing to assigned equipment and report mechanical or other problems.

Effectively utilize a variety of loaders in excess of three (3) yards capacity.

Operate hydraulic & walking excavators including the tandem and trailer used for transport, boom truck, and dump trucks.

Drive a truck tractor hauling equipment or a 2000-gallon tank, a vac-truck, a street sweeper, a mid-mount mower and tractor with pull mower attachments.

Operate gradall, crawler or large rubber-tire tractors equipped with bulldozer blades used in moving earth in the maintenance and rehabilitation of creeks, drains and borrow ditches.

Operate a motor grader with blade, scarifier, and other attachments in the maintenance and repair of creeks, drains, and borrow ditches to obtain grade and proper water flow.

Operate power tools, shovel and attachments in excavation and loading work, and repair of storm sewer systems.

Ability to conduct training, safety review, and close coordination with Crew Chief and Maintenance Supervisor.

Performs on-call services and attends to after-hour emergencies, when necessary.

OTHER JOB RELATED DUTIES

Perform other job related duties and responsibilities as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, I

Operating features of heavy maintenance and construction equipment. 

Proper use and occupational hazards and safety precautions necessary for the safe operation of equipment.

Heavy construction techniques and procedures.

Safe driving principles and practices.

Heavy Equipment Operator II 

Operating characteristics of large automotive equipment.

Division policies and procedures.

Skill to:

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, I

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including:

  • Crawler tractor
  • Wheel loader
  • Rubber tire loader
  • Gradall
  • Hydraulic excavator
  • Knuckle boom truck
  • Self-propelled scraper
  • Tractor, mower, boom mower, and mid-mount mowers
  • Street sweeper
  • 3 to 16 cubic yard dump truck and truck tractor/equipment with a tanker trailer

Heavy Equipment Operator II 

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including bulldozer, walking excavator or spider including tandem and trailer used to transport the walking excavators, motor grader with blade and vac-out truck.

Ability to:

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, I

Shoot and produce a rough grade.

Perform maintenance and construction work to high standards of engineering accuracy.

Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.

Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values – Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Heavy Equipment Operator II 

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including bulldozers, walking excavators or spiders including tandems and trailers used to transport the walking excavators, motor graders with blades and vac-out trucks.

Produce a final grade.

Lead, manage, and perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division’s mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.        

Experience and Training Guidelines:

For positions with more than one level, all listed requirements at the lower levels are required at the higher levels. Any combination equivalent to experience and training to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be qualifying. Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be obtained through:

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee

Experience:

Six (6) months of experience in the operation of heavy equipment is required.

Education/Training:

A high school diploma or a GED is required.

License or Certificate:

 A valid Class A Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), or the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of employment is required.

A Non-Commercial Herbicide Applicator License from Texas Department of Agriculture is preferred.

Heavy Equipment Operator I

License or Certificate:

 A valid Class A Texas Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is required.

Non-Commercial Herbicide Applicator License from Texas Department of Agriculture is preferred.

Heavy Equipment Operator II

Experience:

Two (2) years of experience equivalent to that of a Heavy Equipment Operator I is required.

Special Requirements:

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:

Bloodborne Pathogens training and HazCom training are required within sixty (60) days of employment.

Exposure to outdoors, inclement weather, wet weather, rough terrain, poison ivy, wild animals and noise.

Exposure to confined workspaces, vibration, chemicals, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, and other pollutants during spill clean-ups.

Ability to travel to different work sites and be available after work hours. 

Ability to safely traverse steep grades often found in creeks and drainage ways.

With or without accommodation, the “X” indicates the overall strength demand of the position during a typical workday:

___     Sedentary – lifting of no more than 10 pounds

___     Light – lifting no more than 20 pounds; carrying up to 10 pounds

___     Medium – lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds

___     Heavy – lifting no more than 100 pounds; carrying up to 50 pounds

_X_     Very Heavy – team lifting over 100 pounds; carrying more than 50 pounds

Physical Demand Codes:  The following describes whether or not the position is expected to exert the physical demands listed during a typical workday as well as the overall frequency of the task:

Codes for how often:

N         =          No

E         =          Extensive (100 – 70% of the time)

M         =          Moderate (60 – 30% of the time)

I           =          Infrequent (20 – 10% of the time)

A         =          Almost Never (<10% of the time)

Code / Task

_M_    Standing

_M_    Sitting

_M_    Walking

_M      Lifting

_M      Carrying

_M_    Pushing/Pulling

_I__    Overhead Work

_M_    Fine Dexterity

  M_    Kneeling

_M_    Crouching

_I__    Crawling

_M_    Bending

_M_    Twisting

_M_    Climbing

_M_    Balancing

_E_     Vision

_E_     Hearing

_E_     Talking

___     Other:  _____________________

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