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

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

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 ...

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 ...

Aerotek

Entry Level 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 ...

Lewis Services

Equipment Operator

Huntsville, AL

$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 · 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

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

Meridian Waste

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Huntsville, AL

$24.25 - $31.75/hr

We are looking for a Heavy Equipment (Yellow Iron) Mechanic to join our team at our North Carolina landfills. In this position you will be doing preventative maintenance and repairs on our heavy ...

Meridian Waste

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$24.25 - $31.75/hr

We are looking for a Heavy Equipment (Yellow Iron) Mechanic to join our team at our North Carolina landfills. In this position you will be doing preventative maintenance and repairs on our heavy ...

Meridian Waste

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$24.25 - $31.75/hr

We are looking for a Heavy Equipment (Yellow Iron) Mechanic to join our team at our North Carolina landfills. In this position you will be doing preventative maintenance and repairs on our heavy ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$13

$22

$31

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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 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 driver's license. Many employers also require certification in operating specific machinery, such as cranes or bulldozers, which can be obtained through industry-recognized programs. Physical fitness and good vision are important for safety and effective operation.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

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 jobs are often in specialized fields such as crane or tower crane operation, which require additional certifications and experience. These roles can offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, especially in construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects.

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 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
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

GHD

Decatur, AL

Other

Posted 12 days ago

GHD rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

There's no pledge more important than the one we make to look after our environment, and we're committed to helping you do exactly that.

Join us as we strive to ensure a sustainable future for our communities and the world we live in.  
Become part of our global network of skilled engineers, scientists, auditors, planners and environmental specialists, all working together to leave this world better than we found it.

Who are we looking for?   

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 / Crew Member, you will support a variety of remediation, construction, and Operation & Maintenance projects throughout the Southeast region.

Bring your curiosity and passion to the technical challenges we solve at GHD. Then see how everyone gets behind you. 

With commitment, there's no idea too big, no dream too far. We strive to create opportunity for all. Giving you leading training and development programs to accelerate your growth.  
Come and see where your career can take you and the impact your commitment can make.
Let's solve the big problems together. 
Working with an energetic and high performing team, this position offers a variety of work and will see you involved in: 

  • Health and Safety Stewardship 
  • Pump maintenance, installation and troubleshooting
  • Equipment Operation and maintenance
  • Groundwater monitoring 
  • Data Collection and Record keeping
  • Perform soil and groundwater sampling
  • Remediation system Operations and Maintenance
  • Support clients during emergency response and remediation
  • Jobsite housekeeping

What you will bring to the team:

  • High School Diploma/GED required
  • Up to 3 years of environmental and or construction experience preferred
  • Heavy Equipment operation preferred
  • Ability and willingness to perform field work 100% of the time
  • Ability and willingness to travel, including some overnights, as needed
  • Valid driver's license: CDL Class A preferred (or must be able to obtain CDL)
  • OSHA 40hr HAZWOPER training a plus

Take on some of the world's toughest challenges - with everyone at GHD backing you every step of the way.
We'll give you control over your career, empower you to find innovative solutions and help you create a lasting impact.

See where your commitment could take you with GHD.

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.

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What GHD employees say

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Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About GHD

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanisation. GHD is a global professional services company that is a leader in engineering, construction and architectural expertise. Established in 1928, we remain wholly owned by our people. We are 10,000+ diverse and skilled individuals, yet we are proudly 'One GHD' across more than 200 offices, spanning five continents - Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America, and the Pacific region. Delivering extraordinary social and economic outcomes, we are passionate about building lasting relationships with our partners and clients.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waterloo, ON, CA

Social media

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