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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan

GFL Environmental

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cheboygan, MI · On-site

... Operator will clean trash from tracks of heavy equipment by pulling and or cutting material away from tracks and gear mechanisms at least once daily or more if needed. • Operator will use a two-way ...

GFL Environmental

Heavy Equipment Operator

Cheboygan, MI · On-site

... Operator will clean trash from tracks of heavy equipment by pulling and or cutting material away from tracks and gear mechanisms at least once daily or more if needed. • Operator will use a two-way ...

Steel Industries Inc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Redford, MI · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

... operating and maintaining heavy-duty forging presses to shape, form or taper metal components ... Operates forklift and manipulator (Heavy Equipment) to move materials through the manufacturing ...

Steel Industries Inc

Heavy Equipment Operator

Redford, MI · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

... operating and maintaining heavy-duty forging presses to shape, form or taper metal components ... Operates forklift and manipulator (Heavy Equipment) to move materials through the manufacturing ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ferndale, MI

$55 - $58/hr

Precision positioning of equipment, lifting heavy machinery and components, as well as beams and lumber. * Will operated joystick controls, pedals, levers and buttons to lift, move, and position ...

CA Hull

Heavy Equipment Operator

Commerce, MI · On-site

Operating various pieces of heavy equipment such as excavators, and loaders. * Loading and unloading materials, equipment * Performing general maintenance and inspection of equipment * Working ...

Levy

Heavy Equipment Operator, AGG

Burton, MI · On-site

$26/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as it pertains to operating heavy off-road mobile equipment for the purpose of loading trucks, rail trucks, rail cars, feeding plant and ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee information

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.

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.

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.

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.

How to get a heavy equipment operator trainee job with no experience?

To become a heavy equipment operator trainee with no experience, focus on obtaining a high school diploma or GED, complete basic safety and equipment operation training, and consider enrolling in a vocational or technical program related to construction or heavy equipment. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships, volunteering, or entry-level positions can also improve your chances of securing a trainee role.

How to start out as a heavy equipment operator trainee?

To start as a heavy equipment operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or a formal apprenticeship program. Gaining familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, along with obtaining relevant certifications like OSHA safety training, can improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan?

For Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gerken Materials, Inc.

Clinton, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Why Gerken Materials, Inc.?

At Gerken Materials, Inc., we're part of something bigger - The Gerken Companies.
Our values guide how we work every day:

  • Integrity in every decision, from operations to leadership
  • Safety as a shared responsibility across every site and team
  • Shared success that creates stability for our people and strong operational performance
  • Professional development through training and empowering our teams to do great work
  • Community support because we live where we work and care about the places we serve

If you're looking for reliable work, a strong safety culture, and an opportunity to build a longterm career, Gerken Materials, Inc. may be the right fit.

About the Role

We're hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator to safely and efficiently operate heavy machinery in support of production and reclamation activities across multiple aggregate sites. This role is responsible for operating equipment such as bulldozers, longreach excavators, loaders, haul trucks, and skid steers, while also performing routine equipment maintenance and maintaining a safe, organized work environment. This is a fulltime position with travel required between sites.

What You'll Do
  • Operate a variety of heavy equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, loaders, haul trucks, and skid steers
  • Support production and reclamation activities across multiple aggregate sites
  • Perform routine equipment maintenance, including greasing, fueling, cleaning, and minor repairs
  • Complete detailed equipment inspection reports as required
  • Follow all safety protocols and MSHA regulations
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
  • Travel between multiple job sites as needed
  • Work outside normal business hours as operational needs require
  • Maintain regular inperson attendance
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by management
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, and up to 100 pounds with assistance
  • Prolonged periods of standing, walking, and sitting
  • Ability to safely access and navigate aggregate facilities, including climbing and descending ladders
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Ability to safely operate heavy equipment for extended periods
What You Bring
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience operating finish grade bulldozers and excavators
  • Ability to read topography maps, reclamation maps, and site plans
  • Strong mechanical skills preferred
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work well with supervisors and team members
  • Dependability, positive attitude, and willingness to learn
  • Commitment to safety and efficient work practices
What We Offer
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) investment program with employer match
  • Employerpaid life insurance
  • Employerpaid shortterm and longterm disability
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday pay
  • Employerpaid Employee Assistance Program

If you're ready to put your equipment skills to work and be part of a team that values safety, integrity, and longterm success, we encourage you to apply.

Gerken Materials, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Apply