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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Peterson

Heavy Duty Repair Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$45/hr

... in heavy equipment service; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience. Must be a member of Local 3 of the Operating Engineers or be willing to become one as a condition of ...

PetersonCat

Heavy Duty Repair Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$45/hr

... in heavy equipment service; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience. Must be a member of Local 3 of the Operating Engineers or be willing to become one as a condition of ...

Westinghouse Electric - USA

Plant Operator

Middletown, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Power Plant Operators are responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power ... Operate heavy equipment (manlifts, forklifts) and handle/transfer bulk chemicals * Process ...

Posted today

Anonymous Employer

Plant Operator

Middletown, CA

$40 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Power Plant Operators are responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power ... Operate heavy equipment (manlifts, forklifts) and handle/transfer bulk chemicals * Process ...

Posted today

Calpine

Operator Technician III

Middletown, CA · On-site

$66.16 - $67.48/hr

Uses computers and monitoring equipment to measure, record and make adjustments within operating ... Regularly required to maintain plan security, operate heavy equipment such as manlifts and ...

Calpine

Operator Technician III

Middletown, CA · On-site

$66.16 - $67.48/hr

Uses computers and monitoring equipment to measure, record and make adjustments within operating ... Regularly required to maintain plan security, operate heavy equipment such as manlifts and ...

Sunbelt Rentals

Driver 3 - Tractor Trailer Operator

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$31.13 - $46.69/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Long Haul Driver, Heavy Haul Driver, Lowboy Driver, Equipment Driver, Equipment Operator, Owner-Operator, Delivery Driver Base Pay Range: $31.13 - 46.69 Starting rate of pay may vary based on factors ...

New

RelaDyne LLC

Mechanic

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Mechanic to keep our fleet and equipment operating safely and reliably. In this role, you'll inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair a variety of heavy-duty vehicles ...

RelaDyne

Mechanic

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We're looking for an experienced Mechanic to keep our fleet and equipment operating safely and reliably. In this role, you'll inspect, diagnose, maintain, and repair a variety of heavy-duty vehicles ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

$25

$36

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator trainee in Santa Rosa, CA is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA 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 Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,934 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Truck Driver & Equipment Operator

The Patriot Group

Bodega Bay, CA • On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

The Patriot Group is a fast-growing utility services company with a focus on supply and logistics, third party utility yard management, and fire safety services. Our company is based in San Diego county and is currently providing utility services throughout the state of California. 

Overview:

As a Truck Driver and Equipment Operator within our 3PL utility logistics operation, you play a key role in keeping our customers’ supply chains moving. You’ll be responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient transportation of goods across multiple locations, supporting a wide range of client needs in a dynamic logistics environment.

Responsibilities:

  • Transport freight safely, efficiently, and on schedule across customer locations
  • Follow all DOT regulations and maintain a clean, compliant driving record
  • Conduct routine inspections and basic maintenance on trucks and equipment
  • Keep accurate logs for deliveries, mileage, and vehicle maintenance
  • Maintain a clean, organized vehicle at all times
  • Coordinate closely with dispatch, warehouse teams, and customers to ensure smooth operations
  • Adapt to varying customer requirements and changing logistics priorities
  • Assist operations as needed in a variety of job types and functions
  • Operate forklift, skid steer, excavator and other yard equipment

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Solid understanding of truck operation, inspections, and basic maintenance
  • Strong attention to detail in documentation and safety procedures
  • Ability to troubleshoot issues on the road or in the yard
  • Flexibility to support a variety of routes, equipment types, and customer needs
  • Ability to operate forklift, skid steer, excavator and other yard equipment

Education & Experience:

  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Relevant endorsements or certifications preferred (e.g., tanker, doubles/triples)
  • Experience operating dump trucks, tractor‑trailers, and box trucks
  • Proven experience in logistics, transportation, or 3PL environments

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift heavy materials as needed
  • Ability to operate multiple truck types and related equipment

Apply