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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Reno, NV

Nucor

Equipment Operator I

Sparks, NV

Operate heavy equipment of various sizes including cranes and loaders, etc. * Duties include, but ... Knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles, hazards and safety precautions as well as ...

Placer County California

Equipment Operator

Tahoe City, CA · On-site

$31.47 - $39.28/hr

Perform snow removal with heavy equipment, including graders, push plows, and blowers. * Maintain ... Vehicle codes and safety practices relevant to operating light and heavy vehicles and equipment.

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Sparks, NV · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility ...

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Lockwood, NV · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility ...

Ledcor Group

Equipment Operator - Mining

Reno, NV · On-site

Operate a variety of heavy equipment including dozers, loaders, excavators, haul trucks, water ... Experience operating dozers, loaders, excavators, graders, haul trucks, water trucks, and utility ...

Teichert

Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial or mining setting. * Proficiency in operating dozers, scrapers, and loaders Specific Job Requirements: * Knowledge of ...

Careers at Teichert

Equipment Operator

Sparks, NV

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial or mining setting. * Proficiency in operating dozers, scrapers, and loaders Specific Job Requirements: * Knowledge of ...

Focus Workforce Management

Be Seen First

Equipment Operators - ALL Shifts

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $24.25/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe operation of all equipment within the ... heavy equipment of various sizes and weights and maneuver equipment in and around tight corners ...

New

Focus Workforce Management

Be Seen First

Equipment Operators - ALL Shifts

Sparks, NV · On-site

$23 - $24.25/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe operation of all equipment within the ... heavy equipment of various sizes and weights and maneuver equipment in and around tight corners ...

New

RENO RENTS LP

Mechanic - Heavy Equipment

Sparks, NV · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Description All Star Rents is a family owned Equipment Rental business established in 1962 and is operated by the 3rd generation of family members today. Our 13 locations provide sales and rentals of ...

All Star Rents

Mechanic - Heavy Equipment

Sparks, NV · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

All Star Rents is a family owned Equipment Rental business established in 1962 and is operated by the 3rd generation of family members today. Our 13 locations provide sales and rentals of quality ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Trainee JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Reno, NV

Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Reno, NV salary details

$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator trainee in Reno, NV is $23.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to get started as a heavy equipment operator trainee?

To start as a heavy equipment operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some training or experience in operating machinery. Many trainees begin with on-the-job training or enroll in technical schools that offer courses in equipment operation, safety, and maintenance. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific licenses, 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 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 equivalent, and consider completing a training program or apprenticeship that provides hands-on experience with machinery. Many employers also value a valid driver's license and physical fitness; obtaining a certification such as OSHA safety training can improve your chances. Entry-level positions often require demonstrating a willingness to learn and basic knowledge of equipment operation.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reno, NV are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Reno, NV? For Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Reno, NV are:
Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,185 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Equipment Operator I

Nucor

Sparks, NV

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Nucor rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

226th of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Details

Division: Western Metals Recycling LLC

Location: Sparks, NV, United States  

Other Available Locations: Nevada

Welcome to Nucor, where our unique culture sets us apart. Joining Nucor means becoming part of North America's largest steel and steel products manufacturer, offering unmatched career opportunities and stability. We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler. Our vibrant culture, built on personal connections and teamwork, empowers every team member with the freedom to innovate and contribute to our collective success. Experience a workplace where safety, efficiency, and meaningful personal connections define every day, enriching both our teammates and the communities we serve.

Nucor supports its teammates with top-tier benefits like Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance, 401K and Roth accounts, Profit sharing, Pay-for-performance bonuses, Paid parental leave, Tuition reimbursement, Stock program, Scholarships and more.

New hires will receive a $2,000 sign-on bonus paid out in phases within your first 6 months.  

Basic Job Functions:

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

  • Properly follow company and OSHA safety procedures. Attend safety meetings and participate in safety program.
  • Operate heavy equipment of various sizes including cranes and loaders, etc.
  • Duties include, but are not limited to: loading scrap material onto shredder feed conveyor, pushing shred pile up, moving material throughout the yard, and/or loading trucks and railcars, etc.
  • Perform daily inspections on equipment reporting any defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Keep grounds clear of debris while maintaining safety standards.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Operate small equipment such as a forklift or skid steer if needed.
  • General labor duties that may include but not limited to sweeping, shoveling and general clean-up of any area and/or equipment throughout the yard.
  • Effectively communicate over radio with teammates for traffic coordination, production, and safety procedures.
  • Willing to cross-train in other positions and assist other employees as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned by your manager.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, non-stop environment while providing excellent customer service.
  • Minimum of 3-years previous heavy equipment operation in manufacturing environments, preferably in the scrap metal or construction industries.
  • Knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles, hazards and safety precautions as well as mechanical ability.
  • Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.
  • Ability to adapt to frequent changes of priority and complete job tasks safely and effectively without constant supervision.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to meet attendance schedule with dependability and consistency.
  • Flexible to work overtime, off-hours, weekends, and holidays in an industrial environment which includes being outdoors in all weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bilingual preferred - Spanish. 

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug-free workplace

What Nucor employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

Social media

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