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

PowerGrid Services, LLC

Equipment Operator

Hartselle, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Operate digging equipment Job Requirements High School Diploma or equivalent is required. Valid CDL A is required. First Aid Certification is required. Competency in CPR is required. Experience with ...

Amteck, LLC

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in Lawrenceburg, KY. You will be responsible for operating and maintaining various electrical construction equipment at job ...

Amteck, LLC

Equipment Operator - Lawrenceburg

Madison, AL

$17 - $23.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled Construction Equipment Operator to join Amteck in Lawrenceburg, KY. You will be responsible for operating and maintaining various electrical construction equipment at job ...

Rogers Group

Skid Steer Operator

Huntsville, AL

$25/hr

Operate skid steer and other heavy or grading equipment to complete grading and fine grading tasks ... operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. Established in 1908, RGI is the largest privately ...

Rogers Group

Skid Steer Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$25/hr

Operate skid steer and other heavy or grading equipment to complete grading and fine grading tasks ... operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. Established in 1908, RGI is the largest privately ...

Miller & Miller Inc.

Trackhoe Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Job-specific Qualifications, Certs, or Requirements: * 5 years Commercial Construction Trackhoe Operator experience preferred * Must be able to dig to grade. EOE/Vets/Disabilities Job Posted by ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$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 / Diesel Service Technician

Heavy Equipment / Diesel Service Technician

Cowin Equipment Company, Inc

Madison, AL • On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Cowin Equipment Company rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 141 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

The mission of Cowin Equipment Company is to always satisfy or exceed our customers' expectations for quality. In the pursuit of this mission Cowin is committed to providing our employees a safe and healthy workplace, with an atmosphere of "fairness" that respects an individual's dignity, trust and loyalty. As our legacy in the machinery distribution business surpasses its 88th year, we look forward to the future as much as we pride ourselves on the past. Join our team today!
Benefits
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • 401K Plan + Match
  • Paid PTO and Holidays
  • Short/Long Term Disability
  • Growth opportunities
  • Paid Training
  • Family owned and operated

Technician Specific Benefits
  • Uniforms provided
  • Highly productive shop
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Continued education, manufacturer hands on and web based training
  • Clean and professional work environment
  • Co-Op Program for Tools provided
  • Competitive wages

Responsibilities
  • Provide technical service to heavy and industrial equipment.
  • Read service order, diagnose and troubleshoot unit to resolve malfunction and plan work procedures.
  • Follow checklists ensuring all critical parts are examined.
  • Examine protective guards, loose bolts, and specified safety devices on units, and adjust as needed.
  • Test-operate equipment to ensure that they run smoothly.
  • Attend training classes and keep tabs on factory technical bulletins.
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with customers to increase overall customer happiness.
  • Properly complete the service and/or repairs assigned by supervisor.
  • Complete all work according to the applicable safety requirements and published procedures.
  • Participate in, and utilize to the best of one's abilities, technical training as assigned by management.
  • Maintain your designated workspace in an organized and clean manner.
  • Ensure customer's equipment are returned as clean as they were prior to being serviced.
  • Show the utmost courtesy to all guests, visitors and dealership personnel.
  • Make every effort to achieve the production objectives set by management.
  • Adhere to manufacturer's policies and procedures as they relate to labor operations, time and repair order documentation when performing repairs and torque specifications.
  • Any other duties as outlined by the Service Supervisor and or management.

Qualifications
  • At least 1 year of Fleet or Dealership experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • CDL certification preferred
  • Teammate with a strong sense of dedication to the customer and service team
  • Self-motivated and professional
  • Possess own tools

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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