ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

JENNMAR Services

Heavy Equipment Operator

Newburgh, IN · On-site

Terminal Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator - Long Term - FULLTIME JENNMAR Services is hiring Terminal Operator / Equipment Operator positions for a large company located in the Mount Vernon, Indiana ...

City Of Gary

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gary, IN · On-site

$38K/yr

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR Department: General Services Reports to: General Services Superintendent Status: Full Time Salary: $38,000 _____ _____ Drives and handles various pieces of heavy equipment ...

Tycol Excavating

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Tycol Excavating and Property Services is seeking a skilled and reliable Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support ...

Short Excavating Inc.

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

We're looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator ready to step into a leadership role. This is a great opportunity for someone with solid experience in excavation, grading, and sitework who wants ...

Short Excavating Inc.

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

We're looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator ready to step into a leadership role. This is a great opportunity for someone with solid experience in excavation, grading, and sitework who wants ...

GF Transport

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fortville, IN

$25 - $32/hr

Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator with at least 3+ years of experience operating dirt work machinery. The ideal candidate will be proficient in running a dozer ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Indiana

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Indiana is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often complemented by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as safety protocols and GPS or telematics systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and precise operation of heavy equipment, minimizing risk and maximizing productivity on job sites.

How much do equipment operators make?

Heavy equipment operators in Ohio typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $62,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, and the type of equipment operated, such as bulldozers or cranes.

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

AspectHeavy Equipment OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) often required, OSHA safety certificationsCrane operator certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, roadwork, heavy machineryConstruction sites, industrial settings, operating cranes
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, infrastructure projectsConstruction, shipping yards, industrial facilities

Both Heavy Equipment Operators and Crane Operators work in construction and industrial environments, requiring safety certifications. While Heavy Equipment Operators handle various machinery like bulldozers and loaders, Crane Operators specialize in operating cranes for lifting heavy loads. Their roles often overlap in construction projects, but each requires specific skills and certifications tailored to their equipment.

What Is the Job of a Heavy Equipment Operator?

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs require the safe and proper use of various types of heavy machinery in a large construction or demolition environment. The tasks of a Heavy Equipment Operator vary depending on the type of job and machinery. Examples of heavy equipment include bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and backhoes. Heavy equipment operators most commonly work in construction, oil and gas pipelines, and logging.

What do I need to be a Heavy Equipment Operator?

To become a Heavy Equipment Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a training program or apprenticeship, and a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) in some cases. Certification from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with operating machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders is essential.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Heavy equipment operators with specialized skills, extensive experience, or working in high-demand industries such as construction, mining, or oil and gas can earn around $700 per day. These roles often require certifications, operating large machinery, and working long hours or in remote locations. Compensation varies based on location, project complexity, and union or contractor status.

Can I operate heavy equipment without a CDL?

Heavy equipment operators typically need a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) if they are required to drive large trucks or transport equipment on public roads. However, for operating machinery like bulldozers, excavators, or cranes on job sites, a CDL is usually not required, but specialized training and certifications are often necessary. Requirements can vary by state and employer, so it's important to check local regulations and job specifications.

What is the highest paying Heavy Equipment Operator job?

The highest paying heavy equipment operator roles are often in specialized fields such as crane or excavator operators working in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries. These positions typically require advanced certifications, experience, and operating large or complex machinery, which can lead to higher salaries. Salaries vary by region and industry demand but can exceed $70,000 annually for top-tier roles.

What are some common challenges Heavy Equipment Operators face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, operating machinery on uneven or unstable terrain, and managing tight project deadlines. Safety is a top priority, so operators must be vigilant and adhere to strict protocols to prevent accidents. Many employers provide ongoing training, regular safety briefings, and support from supervisors to help operators tackle these challenges and maintain a safe, efficient work environment.

What are Heavy Equipment Operators?

Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery and vehicles used in construction, mining, forestry, and other industries. They handle equipment like bulldozers, cranes, excavators, loaders, and graders to move earth, lift heavy materials, and assist with building or infrastructure projects. These operators must follow strict safety protocols and often need specialized training or certification to operate different types of machinery. Their work is essential in preparing sites, grading land, and performing tasks that require powerful equipment. Heavy Equipment Operators play a crucial role in ensuring projects are completed efficiently and safely.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana? For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in IN? For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,940 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Operator - Heavy Equipment

Cobalt Civil

Winchester, IN

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

My Account
Career Opportunities >> Operator - Heavy Equipment
Operator - Heavy Equipment
Summary
Title: Operator - Heavy Equipment ID: 1119 Department: Operations Location: Winchester, IN
More about this job >
Description
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITES
Will conduct themselves in a manner that is positive and promotes Cobalt Civil.
Works under the direct supervision of lead person.
Become knowledgeable of all policies and procedures to promote Safety, Production and Quality
Will take an active role in the onsite safety planning at tailboard meetings and implementation of the company's safety handbook while preforming task Ability to remain calm, focused and effective under pressure
Will stay on task to the role assigned daily
Will listen and follow directions of FOMs, Lead Person.
Ensures all information requested from direct report is correct and timely Will report all good catches, near misses, injuries, and incidents to direct report for proper reporting process
Assist Lead Person in good housekeeping of the projects and equipment.
Exercise stop work authority if a dangerous situation should arise Pre-trip inspection on any piece of equipment
Make sure spotter policy is followed as well as establish safe trigger distances and minimum approach distance
Guarantee safe operation of piece of equipment
Only operate equipment that has been deemed qualified
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR QUALIFICATIONS:
Class A CDL preferred
Travel Required
Minimum of 2 years' experience with skid loader, excavator, front end loader and/or bulldozer
Ability/willingness to work in field outside of equipment
In compliance with Federal and State equal employment opportunity laws, qualified applicants are considered for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, non-job related disability, or any other protected group status.
Apply Now
 
Refer to a Friend

Alternatively, you can apply to this job using your profile from Indeed by clicking the button below:


Copyright 2026 Cobalt Civil, LLC. All rights reserved.
Powered by ApplicantStack Hiring Software
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Apply