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

Monarch Cabinetry

Door Builder

Sullivan, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment on an occasional basis. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: * Occasional exposure to high temperatures during summer months. * Occasional exposure to noisy ...

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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.

Mechanic/Shop Leader

DeAngelo Contracting Services

Decatur, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

DeAngelo Contracting Services rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 217 rated repair and maintenance companies

Job description

Company Description

DCS is a family owned and operated business with treating all employees like family at the core of our values. Our employees provide innovative, safe and high-quality infrastructure/maintenance contracting services to State DOTs, railroads, and other commercial/residential customers across the entire United States. Employees receive generous compensation packages, employee engagement events & career development programs, just to name a few of the perks of being part of the DCS family!

To provide quality service, we need top-of-the-line employees. That is why we offer great compensation, awesome benefits, and a work environment worth bragging about! 

Job Description

The Shop Leader in our Decatur location will be a one-person show. There is not currently a team in this facility, so you will not only be managing the inventory, paperwork, procurement, and scheduling, you will also be performing mechanical work on the Region’s fleet. This is a hands-on position, requiring a person who is comfortable with the computer as well as heavy equipment maintenance and repair. You’ll be at the desk as well as in the engines! If you like to keep busy and stay in the technical game, this is a perfect role for you!

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Perform customer service functions or scheduled maintenance.
  • Manage administrative services related to automobile repairs; tasks may include preparing cost estimates for the fleet, notifying Managers and employees of preventive and scheduled maintenance, and making repairs.
  • Reconcile operating accounts and records including reconciling sales with cash and receipts.
  • Drafts and maintains operating reports as requested by the division manager.
  • Monitors inventory, and orders supplies and tools for the shop.
  • Schedules and arrange necessary maintenance for the shop.
  • Ensure that the shop is neat, clean, and safe.
  • Keep open lines of communication with all parties.
  • Oversee All Licenses/Permits with Asset Manager
  • Design and Update Equipment and Spray Systems to Specifications
  • Prioritize and work on projects needing immediate attention.
  • Determine vehicle condition by conducting inspections and diagnostic tests, identifying worn and damaged parts.
  • Keep equipment available for use by completing preventive maintenance schedules; installing component and part upgrades; controlling corrosion.
  • Assist in fabrication of new equipment/new builds.
  • Correct vehicle deficiencies by removing, repairing, adjusting, overhauling, assembling, disassembling, and replacing major assemblies, sub-assemblies, components, parts, or systems, such as, power and drive trains, electrical, air conditioning, fuel, emission, brake, steering, hydraulics and vegetation spray systems.
  • Completes machine shop operations, adjusting and alignments including bearing loads, gear tooth contact, valve mechanisms, governors, oil systems, control linkages, clutches, and traction units.
  • Check vehicle performance by conducting test drives, adjusting controls, and systems.
  • Complies with federal and state vehicle requirements by testing engine, safety, and combustion control standards.
  • Conduct field visits in case of an emergency or sudden breakdown.
Qualifications

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Must have a valid driver’s license with at least 5 years of clean driving.
  • Previous Mechanic experience of 5+ years.
  • CDL is highly preferred.
  • Leadership experience required.
  • Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to prepare operating reports and to reconcile sales records.
  • Extensive knowledge of automobile repair with ability to read and interpret technical manuals.

Physical Requirements:

  • Exposure to gasoline vapors and other automobile fluids.
  • Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds at a time.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and stretch to perform automobile inspection and repair.
  • Must be able to handle tools required to perform automobile repair.
  • May be required to sit at a desk and work on a computer for prolonged periods.

Additional Information

Benefit Highlights:

  • Challenging and rewarding work environment
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision and Prescription Drug Plan
  • 401(K) 
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Career Development

Pay: $75,000/year+ depending on experience. 

Come be a part of the DeAngelo family, today! 

DCS is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all hiring and employment regulations. In the event an ADA accommodation is needed, DCS is happy to help all employees achieve gainful employment in an atmosphere where they are appreciated and respected. DCS offers subcontracting services to government agencies as such, candidates may be subject to pre-employment screenings such as criminal background checks, pre-employment, post-accident & reasonable impairment drug screenings, motor vehicle record checks, etc. as such, DCS complies with all federal and state regulatory guidelines including the FCRA.