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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

The ideal Heavy Equipment Operator candidate is capable of operating large equipment (i.e., excavators, loaders, and bulldozers) and GPS grade control experience is preferred. Pay is $28 - $33 based ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Dulles, VA · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator (Cat 329) to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating excavators for trenching duck banks. Pay ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Dulles, VA · On-site

$28 - $37/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator (Cat 329) to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating excavators for trenching duck banks. Pay ...

Urgent

Heavy Equipment Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$52K - $92K/yr

In addition, the position operates heavy equipment as needed to support or supplement heavy equipment operators. Duties also include maintaining computerized data entry and employee records, ensuring ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$24

$35

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Reston, VA is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $28.03 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reston, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reston, VA? For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,320 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Skillforce

Washington, DC • Remote

$28 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

We are currently hiring for experienced Heavy Equipment Operators in Halethorpe, MD. The ideal Heavy Equipment Operator candidate is capable of operating large equipment (i.e., excavators, loaders, and bulldozers) and GPS grade control experience is preferred. Pay is $28 - $33 based on skill set and experience.

Heavy Equipment Operator Essential Functions:

  • Operate heavy equipment (excavators, bulldozers, graders, etc.) in a safe and efficient manner
  • Perform a variety of tasks including excavation, grading, and material handling and other related duties as assigned
  • Keep building and assigned areas of job site clean and organized to maintain a safe and productive working environment
  • Ensures that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed
  • Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and in good working condition
  • Conduct inspections and routine maintenance tasks as usual
  • Read and interpret blueprints and other technical drawings

Heavy Equipment Operator Qualifications:

  • 5+ years heavy equipment experience
  • GPS grade control experience is a plus
  • Valid certifications is a plus
  • Valid driver's license and your own reliable transportation
  • Your own PPE

Benefits:
  • Weekly pay
  • Paid time off and Holiday pay
  • Referral program
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • 401k

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About Skillforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With the most experienced individuals in the industry, Skillforce is the construction staffing firm employers and tradesmen can trust. Whether you're a construction specialist, craftsman, foreman, or project manager looking to hire new talent, Skillforce has the resources you need. Skillforce is a full-service labor contractor that provides guaranteed, reliable craftsmen to contractors who need them, where and when they need them, for as long as they need them. Founded in 2003, Skillforce was created as a response to the construction industry’s challenges with recruiting and hiring flexible, skilled craftsmen. Rob Cossaboon founded Skillforce with the goal of creating a strong construction staffing company that encompassed two main themes: creating a team environment with strong leadership, and a business culture that inspired employees to strive to be their best.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

2003

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