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

The heavy equipment operator's duties include preparing and manipulating heavy equipment to ensure the appropriate movement of materials and liaising with coworkers to ensure that the projects are ...

The heavy equipment operator's duties include preparing and manipulating heavy equipment to ensure the appropriate movement of materials and liaising with coworkers to ensure that the projects are ...

Equipment Operator

Atlanta, GA

$18 - $24.75/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment to support excavation, spoil removal, and general construction activities within the turnkey concrete scope ...

Equipment Operator

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating heavy equipment to support excavation, spoil removal, and general construction activities within the turnkey concrete scope ...

The Shear Operator is responsible for the safe operation of metal processing equipment. Must have experience to be considered for this position Operating hydraulic, mechanical, or shearing equipment ...

Operate heavy equipment to load and unload shipping containers from railcars and trucks. * Drive ... Previous experience operating heavy equipment or machinery in a logistics or industrial environment ...

Equipment Operator

Lithia Springs, GA ยท On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently based on site and project requirements * Perform ... Work closely with laborers, foremen, and other operators to complete tasks * Maintain a clean ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Decatur, GA is $23.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $26.30 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 heavy machine operators make?

Heavy equipment operators in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. Skilled operators with certifications in equipment like bulldozers or cranes may earn higher wages, especially with overtime or in specialized roles.

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 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.

Is 50 too old to become a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operator roles do not have an upper age limit, and many employers value experience and skills over age. As long as you are physically capable, have the necessary certifications, and can operate machinery safely, age should not prevent you from pursuing this career. Ongoing training and physical fitness are important factors for success in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, GA? For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
Highway Construction Heavy Equipment Operator

Highway Construction Heavy Equipment Operator

CMES, Inc.

Norcross, GA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance

Welcome to CMES INC, a leading player in the heavy highway construction industry. With a rich history spanning over 25 years, we have firmly established ourselves as a reputable and innovative force in the field of infrastructure development. At CMES INC, we take immense pride in our commitment to building and maintaining the critical transportation networks that keep communities connected and businesses thriving.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Summary/ObjectiveThe heavy equipment operator shall possess skills to operate a variety of contractor equipment and trucks used in construction, maintenance and repair activities and performs a variety of semiskilled tasks in the maintenance of light, street, and storm drainage systems.
Heavy Equipment Operator Level I Essential Functions
1. Operates trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling, and unloading of various equipment, materials, and supplies.
2. Must be competent in safety, understanding the Excavation guidelines as defined by OSHA.
3. Basic operational techniques of trucks and construction or power equipment, such as mechanized broom, man-lift, dump truck, hydraulic excavators, skid steers.
4. Operates jackhammers, mowers, brush chippers and other small equipment and tools to maintain street and utility systems.
5. Shoot grades.
6. Works with and assists the line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting material, tools, equipment, and any related work with a backhoe, road grater or front-end loader.
7. Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment.
8. Assists in the installing and maintenance of traffic control devices.
9. Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
Preferred Education and Experience for Level I Operator
โ€ข 1-3 years of previous Heavy Equipment and Construction Experience
Heavy Equipment Operator Level II Essential Functions
1. Operates trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling, and unloading of various equipment, materials, and supplies.
2. Must be competent in safety, understanding the Excavation guidelines as defined by OSHA.
3. Operates trucks and construction or power equipment, such as mechanized broom, backhoe, man-lift, dump truck, road grater, front-end loader, hydraulic excavators, skid steers, scrapers, and dozer.
4. Operates jackhammers, mowers, brush chippers and other small equipment and tools to maintain street and utility systems.
5. Works with and assists the line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting material, tools, equipment, and any related work with a backhoe, and front-end loader.
6. Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment.
7. Assists in the installing and maintenance of traffic control devices.
8. Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
9. GPS
10. Shoot grades and perform necessary math.
11. Identify soil classification.
Preferred Education and Experience for Level II Operator
  • 3 - 6 years of previous Heavy Equipment and Construction Experience.

Heavy Equipment Operator Level III Essential Functions
1. Operates trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling, and unloading of various equipment, materials, and supplies.
2. Operates trucks and construction or power equipment, such as mechanized broom, man-lift, dump truck, road grater, front-end loader, hydraulic excavators, dozers, excavators, Motor graders, Backhoes, skid steers and inductor truck.
3. Operates jackhammers, mowers, brush chippers and other small equipment and tools to maintain street and utility systems.
4. Shoot grades.
5. Works with and assists the line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting material, tools, equipment, and any related work with a backhoe, and front-end loader.
6. Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment.
7. Assists in the installing and maintenance of traffic control devices.
8. Plows snow and salts roads according to departmental policy.
9. Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
10. Finishing and grading functions
11. GPS
12. Shoot grades and perform necessary math.
13. Interpret Civil Drawings
14. Identify soil classifications.
Preferred Education and Experience for Level III Operator
  • 3 - 6 years of previous Heavy Equipment and Construction Experience

Heavy Equipment Operator Level IV Essential Functions
1. Operates trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling, and unloading of various equipment, materials and supplies. Non CDL
2. Must be competent in safety understanding the Excavation guidelines as defined by OSHA.
3. Operates trucks and construction or power equipment, such as mechanized broom, backhoe, man-lift, dump truck, road grater, front- end loader, hydraulic excavators, skid steers, motor graders, excavators, dozers.
4. Operates jackhammers, mowers, brush chippers and other small equipment and tools to maintain street and utility systems.
5. Shoot grades.
6. Works with and assists the line crew in digging ditches and trenches, hoisting material, tools, equipment, and any related work with a backhoe, road grater or front-end loader.
7. Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment.
8. Assists in the installing and maintenance of traffic control devices.
9. Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
10. Finishing and grading
11. Shoot grades and perform necessary math.
12. GPS
13. Interpret Civil Drawings
14. Identify soil classifications.
Preferred Education and Experience for Level IV Operator
  • 10 - 15 years of previous Heavy Equipment and Construction Experience

Competencies
1. Technical Capacity.
2. Time Management.
3. Thoroughness.
4. Customer/Client Focus.
5. Good communication skills
6. Attention to detail.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervision responsibilities.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outside weather conditions. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is frequently exposed to wet or humid conditions and vibration. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and risks of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand, talk, and listen. The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, taste, and smell.
The employee must frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
Travel
Local travel to various worksites is required.
Required Education and Experience
1. Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.
2. Four years' experience involving the use of medium and heavy equipment, two of which must have been related to utility or street systems.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications
1. Valid CDL License.
Benefits:
  • Competitive compensation package
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Career advancement potential
  • A positive and inclusive work environment

At CMES INC, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of growth, diversity, and innovation. If you are ready to be part of a team that makes a meaningful impact on infrastructure development, we invite you to join us in our mission to build a better tomorrow through heavy highway construction.
EEOC Statement
CMES, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer M/F/V/H/AA. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. CMES, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran, and without regard to any other characteristic, protected by applicable law, all in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. CMES, Inc. complies with applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, placement, classification, promotion, termination, compensation, benefits, job training, and other aspects of employment.
Compensation: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour
CMES, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer M/F/V/H/AA. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply. CMES, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty or status as a covered veteran, and without regard to any other characteristic, protected by applicable law, all in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. CMES, Inc. complies with applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, placement, classification, promotion, termination, compensation, benefits, job training, and other aspects of employment
CMES Inc. was founded in February 1996 by professional civil engineers. The initial operations of CMES Inc. were conducted from their home in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The founders were only employees for a time, working diligently to obtain and complete projects within budget and on time as per contract specifications.
Today, we are still young, but also an aggressive company comprised of experienced professionals from the engineering, design, analysis, construction, and project management fields. We have grown to a workforce of over 300 dedicated employees and a fleet of more than 400 heavy construction equipment and vehicles. Our corporate office is located on a 67,000 square foot facility which houses contracts, estimating, administrating, accounting, human resources, and our fleet departments. CMES Inc. ranks among the Top 5 Heavy Highway Contractors based in Atlanta. In turn, the company has grown steadily over the years which is evidenced by revenues exceeding $100M.
Certifications from various entities in the Metro-Atlanta area are held by CMES Inc. and include DOT certifications, MBE and EBO/ABE.