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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Mesa Contracting LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$42.04 - $52.55/hr

Mesa Contracting, LLC in Sherwood, OR is looking to hire a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator to safely operate heavy machinery for construction projects throughout the Portland metropolitan area. Do ...

Mesa Contracting LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$42.04 - $52.55/hr

Mesa Contracting, LLC in Sherwood, OR is looking to hire a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator to safely operate heavy machinery for construction projects throughout the Portland metropolitan area. Do ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Summary As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be essential in ensuring the efficient operation of various machinery on construction sites. Reporting to the site supervisor, your core responsibility ...

Subcom Excavation & Utilities

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Forest Grove, OR · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

Summary As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be essential in ensuring the efficient operation of various machinery on construction sites. Reporting to the site supervisor, your core responsibility ...

Slayden

Heavy Equipment Operator

Central Point, OR · On-site

Slayden Constructors Inc. (SCI) , a wholly owned subsidiary of MWH Constructors, Inc. (MWH) is currently seeking an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator (Track Excavator) to support a critical ...

Kerr Contractors

Heavy Equipment Operator

Woodburn, OR · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Demonstrated knowledge and competency in operating various types of heavy equipment * Extensive earthwork and grading experience utilizing machinery for tasks such as: Mass earthwork, Loading of ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oregon

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$25

$35

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Oregon is $25.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $28.46 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.

What are 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 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.

Which heavy equipment operator job pays the most?

Heavy equipment operators working in specialized fields such as mining, oil and gas, or demolition tend to earn the highest wages due to the complexity and risks involved. Certifications like NCCCO and experience with advanced machinery can also lead to higher-paying opportunities, especially in remote or high-demand areas.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

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

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

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,155 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Mesa Contracting Corporation

Sherwood, OR

$42.04 - $52.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Mesa Contracting, LLC in Sherwood, OR is looking to hire a full-time Heavy Equipment Operator to safely operate heavy machinery for construction projects throughout the Portland metropolitan area. Do you take pride in the quality of your workmanship? Are you looking for a successful career-path with a company that values you? If so, please read on!

This heavy machinery position earns a competitive wage of $42.04 - $52.55 an hour, depending on experience. We provide awesome benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, a 401(k) plan, a flexible spending account (FSA), a dependent care account, and paid time off (PTO). If this sounds like the right Heavy Equipment Operator opportunity for you, apply today!


ABOUT MESA CONTRACTING, LLC

Mesa Contracting is the number one contractor for all civil construction needs. With over 35 years of extensive technical experience, we complete our work safely, on time, and on budget. Our reputation for excellence in delivery, commitment to safety, and strict compliance to standards has earned the trust and respect of contractors, municipalities, and consultants across the region. Our approach to each project and client is always based upon honesty, integrity, and producing the highest quality product available.

Our employees are professionally trained in an array of topics and carry their certifications with pride. In addition, we offer career growth opportunities, generous benefits, and a team-oriented environment. We wouldn't have the success we do without our employee's dedicated efforts, and we strive to show our appreciation in whatever ways we can. If you want to join a successful and cohesive team, look no further!


A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

In this heavy machinery position, you play an integral role in the successful completion of commercial excavation and utility installation jobs. Operating various equipment, you perform land grading, structure excavations, and utility trench excavations. No matter what type of machinery you're using, you always put safety first. You find great satisfaction in contributing to our company's success and providing high-quality results for our customers!


QUALIFICATIONS FOR A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

  • 3+ years of experience operating machinery
  • Earthwork and grading experience
  • Utility installation experience

Are you attentive to safety? Do you handle project deadlines well? Are you a team player with good communication skills? Can you represent our company in a professional manner? If yes, you might just be perfect for this heavy machinery position!


WORK SCHEDULE FOR A HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

This full-time position in construction works Monday-Friday from 7 am–3:30 pm.


ARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR CONSTRUCTION TEAM?

If you feel that you would be right for this heavy machinery job, please fill out our initial 3-minute, mobile-friendly application. We look forward to meeting you!

Location: 97140


Must be able to pass a background check. We also conduct pre-employment drug testing. Any job offer will be based on the results of background and drug testing.

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