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

Heidelberg Materials

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Proficiency in operating heavy equipment. * Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Effective communication and organizational ...

Heidelbergmaterials

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Proficiency in operating heavy equipment. * Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Effective communication and organizational ...

State of Illinois

SITE TECHNICIAN II

Bethany, IL · On-site

$4K/mo

Working knowledge of tools and equipment used in the trades and/or the operation of heavy equipment ... Requires ability to obtain pesticide operator's license within 6 months of employment. * Requires ...

State of Illinois

SITE TECHNICIAN II

Bethany, IL · On-site

$4K - $6K/mo

Working knowledge of tools and equipment used in the trades and/or the operation of heavy equipment ... Requires ability to obtain pesticide operator's license within 6 months of employment. * Requires ...

State of Illinois

SITE TECHNICIAN II

Bethany, IL

$4K - $6K/mo

Working knowledge of tools and equipment used in the trades and/or the operation of heavy equipment ... Requires ability to obtain pesticide operator's license within 6 months of employment. * Requires ...

Decatur Park District

Fleet Mechanic

Decatur, IL

$55K/yr

Loads, unloads and hauls equipment * Drives and operates District's vehicles and heavy equipment ... LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Quality Assurance

Decatur, IL · On-site

$24/hr

... line heavy equipment? Wallenius Wilhelmsen, is seeking Manufacturing-Quality Assurance at our ... Experience operating construction and agricultural equipment, as well as lift trucks and cranes

Wallenius Wilhelmsen

Quality Assurance

Decatur, IL

$24/hr

... heavy equipment and performing shipping/receiving functions. * Maintain the quality of all ... Experience operating construction and agricultural equipment, as well as lift trucks and cranes

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Clinton, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... position heavy materials, such as steel plates, beams, and components, within a fabrication ... Conduct daily pre-shift inspections of the crane and rigging equipment (slings, chains, hooks, etc ...

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

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Decatur, IL is $23.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $26.11 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, IL? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL? For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,848 per year, or $23 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Heidelberg Materials

Decatur, IL • On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Heidelberg Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

332nd of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Line of Business: Other
Job Description
About Us
Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.
What We Offer
$25.00 to $27.00 per hour
401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions
Highly competitive benefits programs, including:
Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits
Health Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance
Paid Bonding Leave, 10 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave, and 10 Paid Holidays
Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled
What You'll Be Doing
  • Operate heavy equipment such as loaders, excavators, and bulldozers.
  • Perform routine maintenance and inspections on equipment.
  • Ensure safe and efficient operation of machinery.
  • Assist with loading and unloading materials.
  • Follow safety protocols and procedures at all times.

What Are We Looking For
  • Proficiency in operating heavy equipment.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Effective communication and organizational skills.
  • Commitment to safety and quality standards.

Conditions of Employment
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check.
  • Some positions require FMCSA regulated ongoing drug and alcohol testing.

Work Environment
  • Role operates primarily in environments where the conditions include moving mechanical equipment, inclement weather, heat, cold, humidity, and elevated noise level.

What Heidelberg Materials employees say

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