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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rhinelander, WI

Underground Systems Inc

Equipment Operator

Rhinelander, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Equipment Operator: Equipment Operator is proficient in the operations of underground utility equipment (ex. horizontal directional drill, vibratory plow, excavators, skid steer). Must possess ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rhinelander, WI

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Rhinelander, WI salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Rhinelander, WI is $23.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $26.30 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

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rhinelander, WI?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rhinelander, WI are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rhinelander, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rhinelander, WI are:

What cities near Rhinelander, WI are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Rhinelander, WI with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Rhinelander, WI 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 $48,203 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

MasTec Communications Group

Eagle River, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 156 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 80 rated construction

Job description

Overview
At MasTec Communications Group we build for the future. Yours and ours.
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will develop new skills, work in a safety-minded environment, and join us in expanding technology for a better community. Join the MasTec family and help us provide the highest level of quality service to our customers and communities while maintaining our commitment to safety!
Responsibilities
As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will support all phases of utility construction for various types of telecom projects. You believe in doing the job right. Being the best. And you're up for the challenge.
In addition, you will:
  • Operate light construction equipment, including backhoes, cable plows, trenchers, hydraulic reel trailers, other types of machinery, and ensure maintenance of these as required
  • Troubleshoot problems as they arise in the field
  • Read and understand utility locates and above-ground utility indicators to ensure the safety of the crew and a high level of productivity

Qualifications
About You:
  • Safety is a part of your day-to-day
  • You have a track record of completing work with a high level of quality
  • You have a knack for figuring out hard problems and enjoy a hands-on approach to your work
  • You are looking for long-term projects
  • You enjoy getting your hands dirty with your team
  • You have experience operating heavy equipment on a construction site
  • You have a valid Class A CDL with tanker endorsement, and a clean driving record

MOS Codes 12N, 12V, 21E, and 21J relate well to this position.
Hard work pays off. See what you'll get for your effort:
Financial Security
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • Red Wing Boot Voucher

Health and Wellness
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Dependent care and medical flexible spending accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Work/Life Balance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid holidays
  • Family and medical leave
  • Paid sick time

Employee Referral Program
Refer someone who delivers excellence just like you and receive a $1,000 incentive for a referral that becomes a permanent hire!
We meet your commitment with competitive pay and benefits. If this sounds like you, let's talk. Build your career with MasTec!
MasTec, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
#MasTecJobs #MasTecCareers #BeSuccessfulWithUs #IAmMasTec #WeAreMasTec #MasTecFamily #MasTecCommunicationsGroup #MasTecCommunicationsCareers #HotJobs

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