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Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Managing Waste Firm

Heavy Equipment Operator

Nantucket, MA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Waste Options Nantucket LLC Location: Nantucket, NY Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Competitive, based on experience Reports to: Operations Supervisor About Us ...

Quinn Sales Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operate various pieces of large equipment (Excavators, Dozers, Rollers, Motorgrader, Trucks, Wheel Loader, Track Loader, Skid Steer) in ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate, maintain, and ...

ABCI

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - ABCI ABCI, a local mid-sized civil construction company, is seeking a full-time, experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. The Heavy Equipment Operator is ...

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 ...

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 ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate, maintain, and ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate, maintain, and ...

Clark Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lansing, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Lansing, MI Pay: $25-$35/ HR Operate Modern Equipment on High-Profile Construction Projects Clark Companies is seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join ...

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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 Aug 15, 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.

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.
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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

VLS Environmental Solutions

Moore, SC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

VLS Environmental Solutions is Hiring Heavy Equipment Operators
Gray Court, SC

VLS Environmental Solutions is hiring heavy equipment operators to support operations at our alternative engineered fuel facility in Gray Court, SC.

Benefits:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Telemedicine benefits
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Paid time off and 11 company-paid holidays
  • Employee assistance program
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Voluntary life insurance options
What You'll Do:
  • As a heavy equipment operator, you will operate a variety of heavy equipment, including forklifts, loaders, excavators, skid steers, and telehandlers, to load, unload, and move materials to support daily operations.
Requirements:
  • At least 1 year of industrial, warehouse, or equipment operation experience
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and high school diploma/GED
  • Experience operating forklifts or heavy equipment
  • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 75 lbs frequently as part of essential job functions
About VLS Environmental Solutions

VLS Environmental Solutions is a recognized leader in sustainability solutions, providing innovative services designed to help businesses meet their environmental goals.

With more than 1,200 employees across 40 locations throughout North America, VLS combines industry expertise, advanced technology, and a commitment to safety to deliver solutions that make a lasting impact.

At VLS, we don't just manage materials - we create solutions that help build a more sustainable future.

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