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

Arcosa Lightweight

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 ...

Ameren Services

MDF Specialist

Decatur, IL · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

... operating companies, subsidiaries and affiliates. Nearly 1,400 employees serve the company with ... Operation of a fork truck and heavy equipment will be necessary, as well as lifting up to 50 lbs.

AMS Ameren Services

MDF Specialist

Decatur, IL

$19 - $25.25/hr

... operating companies, subsidiaries and affiliates. Nearly 1,400 employees serve the company with ... Operation of a fork truck and heavy equipment will be necessary, as well as lifting up to 50 lbs.

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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 10, 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.

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.
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.
Press Brake Machine Operator

Press Brake Machine Operator

Arcosa Lightweight

Clinton, IL • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Meyer Utility Structures is searching for Hydraulic Press Brake Machine Operators for our Clinton, IL location. Our Hydraulic Press Brake Machine Operators operate a hydraulic press brake machine to produce high-quality, precisely bent metal parts for manufacturing purposes. This position involves interpreting technical documents, programming machine controls, performing quality checks, and ensuring a safe and efficient work environment.
Meyer Utility Structures is an industry leader in the engineering design and fabrication of concrete, lattice, and tubular steel structures for transmission, distribution, and substation applications. With over sixty years of innovative engineering and manufacturing expertise, Meyer has helped to author and validate many of today's transmission industry standards and specifications.
What You'll Do:
  • Set up and operate the hydraulic press brake machine, including selecting and installing the appropriate dies and tooling for each job
  • Read and interpret complex blueprints, technical drawings, and work orders to determine required specifications, dimensions, angles, and bending sequences
  • Program or adjust computer numerical control (CNC) settings and parameters to achieve precise bending and shaping of metal materials
  • Position and align metal sheets or plates accurately within the machine for processing, and manage the movement of materials to and from the work area
  • Monitor the bending process and inspect finished products using precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges to ensure they meet quality standards and tight tolerances
  • Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of the equipment, troubleshooting minor machine issues and reporting any malfunctions or conditions requiring service or repairs to the supervisor or maintenance department
  • Adhere strictly to all health and safety regulations and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to maintain a safe working environment

What You'll Need:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent, vocational or technical training in metal fabrication is preferred
  • Proven experience operating press brake machines or similar industrial machinery in a manufacturing or metal fabrication setting
  • Strong mathematical skills for measurements and calculations
  • Familiarity with CNC controls and programming (if applicable to the machine)
  • Ability to use precision measuring tools effectively
  • Technical proficiency required to electronically record production data (Job Tracker)
  • Excellent attention to detail and strong observational skills
  • Problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment
  • Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift or move heavy items (up to 50 pounds)

Compensation and Benefits:
Meyer Utility Structures is proud to offer competitive benefits and programs to help you and your family meet your healthcare and retirement planning needs. The various benefits offered to employees based on eligibility may include:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • 401k with Employer Match
  • 11 paid Company holidays
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Health & Wellness Programs
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Discount Programs
  • Professional Training and Development Programs
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Hourly Range, commensurate with background/experience, - $25.00 - $28.00+/hour

MUS276
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Arcosa Lightweight logo

About Arcosa Lightweight

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Arcosa Lightweight, located in Dallas, TX, US, is a leading company in the construction materials industry. Its specialization lies in the production of rotary kiln expanded shale and clay lightweight aggregates used for concrete construction and infrastructure development. The company is a division of Arcosa Inc., a provider of infrastructure-related products and solutions with leading positions in construction, energy, and transportation markets. Arcosa Lightweight was formed from the legacy Trinity Construction Materials business, split-off in November 2018, to forge a new era of growth and customer focus.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

2018

Social media

Twitter

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