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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Ridgeland, MS (NOW HIRING)

Phoenix Biochar

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Heavy Equipment Operator

Pickens, MS · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a crucial role in operating various types of heavy machinery including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and graders as part of a small team. This position involves ...

CRH

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Jackson, MS · On-site

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator AMAT Jackson, Mississippi, United States | Canton, Mississippi, United States | Morton, Mississippi, United States | Mount Olive, Mississippi, United States Job ID ...

Savard Group

Equipment Operators

Clinton, MS · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Minimum 2 years of heavy equipment operating experience on commercial or industrial construction projects. * Must have experience operating: * Skid Steer * Backhoe * Forklift * Dump Trucks * Floor ...

Savard Personnel Group

Equipment Operators

Clinton, MS · On-site

$1.6K/wk

Minimum 2 years of heavy equipment operating experience on commercial or industrial construction projects. * Must have experience operating: * Skid Steer * Backhoe * Forklift * Dump Trucks * Floor ...

United Rentals - French

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. You will be required to work in all weather and be ... operating multiple types of heavy equipment on large construction projects Ability to operate ...

United Rentals

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Operate all heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner * Maintain daily logs of equipment usage ... Valid driver's license * 1-3 years of experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment on ...

United Rentals

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. You will be required to work in all weather and be ... operating multiple types of heavy equipment on large construction projects Ability to operate ...

United Rentals

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. You will be required to work in all weather and be ... operating multiple types of heavy equipment on large construction projects Ability to operate ...

United Rentals

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. You will be required to work in all weather and be ... operating multiple types of heavy equipment on large construction projects Ability to operate ...

United Rentals - French

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. You will be required to work in all weather and be ... operating multiple types of heavy equipment on large construction projects Ability to operate ...

United Rentals

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Operate all heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner * Maintain daily logs of equipment usage ... Valid driver's license * 0-1 year of experience operating multiple types of heavy equipment on ...

United Rentals - French

Equipment Operator

Madison, MS · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

... heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner. You will be required to work in all weather and be ... operating multiple types of heavy equipment on large construction projects Ability to operate ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Ridgeland, MS

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Ridgeland, MS salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Ridgeland, MS is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $23.37 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 Ridgeland, MS?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Ridgeland, MS are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Ridgeland, MS?

For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Ridgeland, MS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Ridgeland, MS are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Ridgeland, MS with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Ridgeland, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 95% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,839 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Phoenix Biochar

Pickens, MS • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a crucial role in operating various types of heavy machinery including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and graders as part of a small team. This position involves not only handling equipment efficiently but also ensuring safety compliance, performing maintenance checks, and maintaining accurate records using both manual and digital systems. Operators will contribute to site preparation and collaborate closely with team members to maintain smooth operations with opportunities for growth into specialized equipment training and supervisory roles.

Responsibilities

  • Operate excavators, bulldozers, loaders, graders, and other heavy equipment safely and efficiently
  • Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and protocols
  • Conduct routine maintenance and equipment inspections to prevent malfunctions
  • Handle loads securely during transportation and placement
  • Prepare work sites according to project requirements
  • Maintain detailed records of equipment usage and maintenance via manual and digital systems
  • Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to coordinate tasks
  • Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and report major problems promptly

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 3 years’ experience in heavy equipment operation