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

Site Worker

Heavy Equipment Operator

Raeford, NC · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator (Bulldozer & Excavator) Job Type: Temporary (Project-based) Position Overview: We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for a large utility-scale farm project ...

Southern Land Pros LLC

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator- Fine Grade

West End, NC · On-site

$20 - $34/hr

Here at Southern Land Pros, we are looking at hiring 2-3 Fine Grade Heavy Equipment operators. Operators with experience fine grading and using Trimble GPS is preferred. We are looking for ...

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Rockingham, NC

$16 - $22/hr

" Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits Available and ...

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Raeford, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

" Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits Available and ...

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Laurinburg, NC · On-site

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

" Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits Available and ...

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Rockingham, NC · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

" Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits Available and ...

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Laurinburg, NC

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

" Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits Available and ...

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Raeford, NC

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

" Equipment Operator This position operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. Pay : Competitive, Hourly Benefits: * Benefits Available and ...

OmniSource

Equipment Operator

Raeford, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

... on equipment. * Direct customers within the facility and help customers unload material. * All other duties as required. Qualifications * Must be a certified Material Handler operator. * Ability to ...

OmniSource

Equipment Operator

Raeford, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

... on equipment. * Direct customers within the facility and help customers unload material. * All other duties as required. Qualifications * Must be a certified Material Handler operator. * Ability to ...

OmniSource

Equipment Operator

Raeford, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

... on equipment. * Direct customers within the facility and help customers unload material. * All other duties as required. * Must be a certified Material Handler operator. * Ability to work in all ...

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

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Rockingham, NC salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Rockingham, NC is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.64 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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The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC?

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

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The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC are:

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

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

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Rockingham, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,530 per year, or $20 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Site Worker

Raeford, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Title:
Heavy Equipment Operator (Bulldozer & Excavator)

Job Type: Temporary (Project-based)


Position Overview:

We are seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator for a large utility-scale farm project consisting of a highway. The project is expected to last 3+ years, offering stable work opportunities for dependable candidates seeking long-duration project employment.

Equipment: Very experienced with an excavator, independent. Familiarity with GPS machine control is a strong plus

Key Responsibilities:

Bulldozer Operations:

  • Perform grading and leveling to prepare job sites for construction.
    • Prepare substation and switchgear pads to spec, ensuring proper compaction, slope, and elevation tolerances.
  • Push, spread, and compact soil, gravel, and other materials.
  • Assist in road and pad construction by cutting and shaping terrain.
  • Maintain and adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
  • Work closely with site supervisors and civil crews to maintain pace with project timelines.

Excavator Operations:

  • Perform excavation, trenching, and digging for foundations, electrical, and pipe.
    • Digging Trenches: Dig, backfill, and grade trenches of the required depth and width to lay electrical conduits or cables.
    • Precision Work: The operator ensures trenches are straight and properly aligned to match project specifications for efficient cable installation.
    • Trench refinement: Smoothing and leveling the bottom of the trench and grading for drainage.
  • Assist in laying pipe by precisely excavating trenches and backfilling materials.
  • Operate attachments such as buckets, hammers, and grapples for specialized tasks.
  • Work around existing utilities with caution and precision.
  • Work closely with site supervisors and civil crews to maintain pace with project timelines.

General Responsibilities:

  • Read and interpret blueprints, site plans, and grade stakes to complete tasks accurately.
  • Follow all safety protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
  • Conduct pre-operational inspections and basic maintenance on equipment.
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine maintenance checks.
  • Communicate effectively with supervisors, crew members, and site managers.
  • Adapt to varying job site conditions and complete tasks efficiently.

Qualifications & Skills:

  • Proven experience operating excavators in civil construction.
  • Ability to read and understand grading plans and site layouts.
  • Experience in civil construction, ideally on solar or energy-related infrastructure projects.
  • Familiarity with GPS machine control (Trimble, Topcon, or equivalent) and laser grading technology is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of safety regulations and equipment maintenance.
  • Physical ability to lift, climb, and work in various weather conditions.
  • A valid CDL or heavy equipment operator certification is preferred.
  • OSHA 10 or 30 certification preferred.

Work Environment & Schedule:

  • Outdoor construction sites in varying weather conditions.
  • Full-time position with potential overtime and weekend work based on project needs.
  • Travel may be required depending on job location.

If you have the experience and skills to operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently, we encourage you to apply and become part of our team!