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

... heavy equipment industries. The Role As a Route Sales Manager, this sales position focuses on ... Finally, because you will be operating a mobile store, you must have the physical ability to kneel ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Decatur, IL is $22.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.01 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 are 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 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.

Which heavy equipment operator job pays the most?

Heavy equipment operators working in specialized fields such as mining, oil and gas, or demolition tend to earn the highest wages due to the complexity and risks involved. Certifications like NCCCO and experience with advanced machinery can also lead to higher-paying opportunities, especially in remote or high-demand areas.

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:

Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Decatur, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,629 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Route Sales Manager-Decatur

Decatur, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Route Sales Manager
About Us
We are a third-generation, family-owned and operated business that was founded in 1959 by a WWII Marine veteran who recognized a genuine need in the industrial marketplace. Known as America’s Mobile Industrial Hardware Store, we offer a simple but highly effective solution: we take the store and the service directly to the customer. Our Route Sales Managers operate fully stocked mobile stores to serve a wide array of sectors, including the transportation, aviation, facilities maintenance, aerospace, medical, military, marine, power generation, manufacturing, federal/local government, and heavy equipment industries.
The Role
As a Route Sales Manager, this sales position focuses on providing various types of industrial hardware directly to customers within a defined geographic territory through cold-calling and prospecting activities. To be successful in this position, there are a few critical requirements you must meet: You must reside within the assigned territory. You must be able to purchase or lease an approved mobile store vehicle. You must maintain a clean driving history. Finally, because you will be operating a mobile store, you must have the physical ability to kneel and bend to the floor on a regular basis.
Key Responsibilities

  • Prospect & Sell: Develop new sales prospects through research, referrals, and calling on businesses near existing customers. Make face-to-face calls on cold and warm sales prospects.
  • Present Solutions: Present products and services using sample boards, product demos, and your mobile store.
  • Manage Operations: Maintain the cleanliness, operation, marketing, and functionality of your mobile store. Submit complete and accurate daily business reports detailing sales orders and prospect calls.
  • Data Integrity: Continually maintain customer contact information—including notes, names, phone numbers, and addresses—using company software. Qualifications
  • Education & Experience: A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Outside industrial sales experience, especially in route or industrial sales, is preferred.
  • Job Stability: Must have a strong tenured background, no job hopping; the ideal candidate has a maximum of 3 companies over the past 10 years.
  • Skills: Excellent analytical, reasoning, and organizational skills. Proficiency with databases, spreadsheets, email, and common business applications is expected.
  • Attributes: Demonstrated ability to work independently and a proven history of goal attainment.