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

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

American Recycling is looking for a safety conscious Heavy Equipment Operator to join the team at our sorting center in Manassas, VA . Our priority is to make sure we hire safe equipment operators ...

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Operate heavy equipment, including dozers and compactors * Compact waste efficiently and safely * Transport dirt and other materials as needed * Act as a spotter to support safe on-site operations

Equipment Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Operate heavy equipment, including dozers and compactors * Compact waste efficiently and safely * Transport dirt and other materials as needed * Act as a spotter to support safe on-site operations

Showing results 41-60

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 Loader

Vulcan Materials Company

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description


Job Summary
This position's primary responsibilities include the operation of off-highway heavy equipment which includes: haul truck, pit truck, water truck, fork lift, stockpile truck, bin truck and plant truck within the facility. Safely drives and maneuvers equipment into position for loading, dumping and spreading material. Assists in stockpiling materials at plant and stockpile area and hauls other material as required. Inspects vehicle's mechanisms and monitors and maintains fluid levels. Assists mechanic with minor service and repairs to equipment. Candidate will be responsible for performing general maintenance work in and around the plant. Makes a variety of repairs of a general or ordinary nature in and around the plant and notifies the plant manager of any intricate or complicated repairs.
Essential Functions
• Employee is expected to operate equipment unit with a high degree of competence, skill and proficiency
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift safety inspections and complete daily equipment reports.
• Report unsafe mechanical conditions to shop foreman and supervisor.
• Maintain good housekeeping practices on equipment.
• Assist with equipment routine preventative maintenance.
• Will work outdoors and exposed to varying and/or extreme weather conditions (i.e., heat, wet, cold, etc)
• May work in high and/or precarious places or cramped work space that requires getting into awkward positions.
Critical Competencies
• Communication - Communicates clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, while actively listening and adapting the message to the audience.
• Team Player - Works cooperatively and effectively with team members to achieve shared goals, willingly assisting others and fostering a positive and productive team environment.
• Safety Awareness - Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
• Initiative and Self-Motivation - Ability to take proactive steps, anticipate needs, and act without needing constant direction or supervision; drives to pursue goals, generates ideas, and seeks opportunities for improvement or innovation without waiting for external prompts.
• Equipment Operation - Proficiency in operating large loaders with ability to accurately and smoothly maneuver and complete various tasks, such as loading, dumping, and transporting materials. Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications.
• Personal Accountability - Honoring your commitments to yourself and others. Acknowledging and correcting your own mistakes. Taking full ownership to address and fix problems vs. deflecting blame to others.
Responsibilities
Education
• High School Diploma/GED or an equivalent combination of training and work experience.
Experience
• Heavy equipment operator experience is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Comply with all SHE and other company policies, procedures and requirements.
• Follow established traffic patterns avoiding road hazards and other hazardous conditions.
• Perform duties safely, responsibly, and proficiently, observing all safety and health rules.
• Perform other duties as directed by supervisor.
Other Requirements
• Must be able to work required overtime and flexible work schedule.
• Be willing to work a flexible schedule and customer needs require.
• Must be able to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; grip, climb, reach, shovel, squat, crawl, or pull, push, as well as, bend and lift 45 pounds
• Must be able to speak, read, and have a working knowledge of the English language.
Hourly Range: the hourly range for this role is between $24.50 - $34.53. This range is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package. When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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