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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

City of Raleigh, NC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$49K - $74K/yr

Qualifying Heavy Equipment Operators are eligible for training certifications that provide stipends of additional pay up to 12.5% Duties and Responsibilities The intent of this is to provide a ...

Morgan Corp.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC

Description We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience operating a variety of construction equipment used in ...

Charah Solutions

Heavy Equipment Operator

Moncure, NC · On-site

This position requires a multi-faceted track and wheel driven heavy equipment operator that can safely, productively, and with proven skill, control, maneuver, and navigate numerous types of ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rougemont, NC · On-site

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end loaders, skid-steers, trackhoes, backhoes, excavators, dozers, motor graders and trenchers. Job Functions:

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rougemont, NC · On-site

$33 - $35/hr

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end loaders, skid-steers, trackhoes, backhoes, excavators, dozers, motor graders and trenchers. Job Functions:

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rougemont, NC · On-site

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end loaders, skid-steers, trackhoes, backhoes, excavators, dozers, motor graders and trenchers. Job Functions:

Meridian Waste

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wendell, NC

The Operator - Heavy Equipment is responsible for the safe operation of heavy equipment at a recycling center, landfill or transfer station for the purpose of transferring, spreading, covering ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$20

$28

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Raleigh, NC is $20.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $23.12 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.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator jobs

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For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,365 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC

Morrisville, NC

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Brasfield & Gorrie rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Responsibilities

Brasfield & Gorrie is currently accepting applications for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Below are the main responsibilities for this position.  

(This description may not include all duties required of this position)

  • Operate several types of power construction equipment, such as excavator, backhoe, dozer, skid steer and vibratory compactor or motor graders to excavate, move and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement.
  • May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
  • Must adhere to safety protocol, and work in a drug-free environment. 

Education - Skills - Knowledge - Qualifications & Experience

3 years Industrial Construction Equipment Operator experience preferred. 

EOE/Vets/Disabilities

Qualifications:

3 years Industrial Construction Equipment Operator experience preferred. 

EOE/Vets/Disabilities

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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