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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with ...

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with ...

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Southeast Environmental business is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator-Environmental & Construction Field Technician/Crew Member to join their field team in Decatur, AL. As a Technician ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Southeast Environmental business is looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator-Environmental & Construction Field Technician/Crew Member to join their field team in Decatur, AL. As a Technician ...

Aerotek

Laborer/Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$21.50/hr

General Laborer - Grader Operator (Steel Mill) This position focuses on safely operating a grader and other heavy equipment to level and maintain landfill areas used for steel byproducts at a steel ...

New

Action

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$17 - $23.25/hr

... heavy equipment while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer service. Work is performed in industrial environments, including manufacturing facilities, refineries ...

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

... heavy equipment while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer service. Work is performed in industrial environments, including manufacturing facilities, refineries ...

Lewis Services

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines * Safeguard equipment and ... Completion of Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge Certification * Basic knowledge of electrical ...

Lewis Services

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operate heavy equipment per Lewis policy and manufacturer guidelines * Safeguard equipment and ... Completion of Equipment Operator Technical Knowledge Certification * Basic knowledge of electrical ...

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North ... Crush, load, and unload items using heavy equipment. * Safely clean equipment when jams occur

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North ... Crush, load, and unload items using heavy equipment. * Safely clean equipment when jams occur

Aerotek

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$21.50/hr

General Laborer - Grader Operator (Steel Mill) This position focuses on safely operating a grader ... Drive and maneuver heavy equipment, including graders and related machinery, safely across uneven ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Decatur, AL is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.24 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 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 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.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,244 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

GHD Group

Decatur, AL • On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description


Join a global professional services leader. We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization.
GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate various types of heavy equipment (i.e. tracked excavator, dozer, wheel loader, etc.) associated with earthwork and environmental construction! As Equipment Operator you must demonstrate safe operation of assigned equipment based on changing operating conditions.
Travel expectations: Projects are located throughout the U.S. Travel is on a rotational basis: 3 weeks onsite, home for a weekend and then back onsite for another 3 weeks. Travel, mobilization, hotel and per diem costs are paid by GHD. We have an upcoming 3-year project in western Ohio.
Performance Responsibilities:
  • Operate medium equipment at high caliber of quality
  • Safely operates equipment with the ability to achieve daily production goals
  • Conducts daily maintenance checks of all operated equipment and vehicles
  • Provides physical labor with hand tools, power tools, etc. when vital
  • Read, interpret and construct according to engineered drawings/ plans.
  • Assists Superintendent and foreperson in ensuring that the final product is of the upmost and highest possible quality, both structurally and aesthetically.
  • Completes all required quarterly and yearly Safety Reporting Forms (STEPs, UA/UC/SW)

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 2 years in operating a variety of medium-sized or larger equipment
  • Qualified in the basic operation of equipment (e.g. dozer, loader, excavator, roller/compactor, grader) in a production scenario.
  • Ability to read/ use tape measures, transit/levels, etc.

If you are passionate about pursuing this position, please submit your resume and cover letter via the link below.
As a multicultural organization, we encourage individual achievement and recognize the strength of a diverse workforce. GHD is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status or veteran status.
This position does not provide visa sponsorship.
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