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

Trees, LLC

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Rockingham, NC · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

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

Flatiron Construction Corp

Grading Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other structures * Cleans and ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

Grading Operator

Aberdeen, NC · On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Click here to find out how Tim grew from an Equipment Operator into a Grade Foreman. What you will be doing Drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads and other ...

Xylem Tree Experts

Jarraff Operator - Hamlet, NC

Hamlet, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

The Jarraff Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Always follow and help enforce safe practices and ...

Xylem I LLC

Jarraff Operator - Hamlet, NC

Hamlet, NC

$14.50 - $19/hr

The Jarraff Operator operates heavy equipment of various types to remove branches and tree material from electrical lines. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Always follow and help enforce safe practices and ...

Globe Metallurgical

Dozer Operator

Wallace, SC · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Who we are What you will do As a Dozer Operator at Ferroglobe USA Quartz, you will play a vital ... Equipment Operation: Operate dozers and other heavy equipment in a safe, efficient manner to move ...

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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 Jun 16, 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 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 Is the Job of a Heavy Equipment Operator?

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs require the safe and proper use of various types of heavy machinery in a large construction or demolition environment. The tasks of a Heavy Equipment Operator vary depending on the type of job and machinery. Examples of heavy equipment include bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and backhoes. Heavy equipment operators most commonly work in construction, oil and gas pipelines, and logging.

What do I need to be a heavy equipment operator?

To become a heavy equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a training program or apprenticeship, and a valid driver's license. Many employers also require certification in operating specific machinery, such as cranes or bulldozers, which can be obtained through industry-recognized programs. Physical fitness and good vision are important for safety and effective operation.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

Can I operate heavy equipment without a CDL?

Heavy equipment operators typically need a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) if they are required to drive large trucks or transport equipment on public roads. However, for operating machinery like bulldozers, excavators, or cranes on job sites, a CDL is usually not required, but specialized training and certifications are often necessary. Requirements can vary by state and employer, so it's important to check local regulations and job specifications.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paying heavy equipment operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as crane or tower crane operation, which require additional certifications and experience. These roles can offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, especially in construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects.

What are some 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 Heavy Equipment Operators?

Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery and vehicles used in construction, mining, forestry, and other industries. They handle equipment like bulldozers, cranes, excavators, loaders, and graders to move earth, lift heavy materials, and assist with building or infrastructure projects. These operators must follow strict safety protocols and often need specialized training or certification to operate different types of machinery. Their work is essential in preparing sites, grading land, and performing tasks that require powerful equipment. Heavy Equipment Operators play a crucial role in ensuring projects are completed efficiently and safely.
More about Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC? 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:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rockingham, NC look for? 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,530 per year, or $20 per hour.
Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Equipment Operator - NON-UNION

Asplundh Tree Expert

Raeford, NC

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 11 days ago

Asplundh Tree Expert rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 226 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

Description

"

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 Vary per position and location

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

  • Plans, assigns, directs, checks, and coordinates work.
  • Operates and services equipment such as gasoline, hydraulic tools, power saws, power winches, mower deck, weed whacker, chipper, and sprayers.
  • Cleans up and disposes of all debris.
  • Uses hand-tools, such as axes, hand-lines, saws, block and tackle, pruners and other equipment as required.
  • Sprays brush and stumps, making proper and selective application of herbicides.
  • Responsible for quality and quantity of production.
  • Performs all aspects of labor as necessary to keep crew operation flowing.
  • Ensures the overall safety, quality and production requirements of the crew are met.
  • Obtains written or oral permission from property owners to trim or remove trees or perform other work on property.
  • Arranges with customer or property owner to obtain access, advises of interruption, explains work to be done, etc.
  • Promotes and maintains good customer and public relations through the effective accomplishment of assigned work and the appropriate behavior of employees on the crew.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around work area.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and public.
  • Trains new personnel.
  • Keeps informed on new equipment, specifications, standard practices, operating procedures, and customer and company employee relations policies and practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Possesses working knowledge and be able to identify tree and shrub species.
  • Familiar with electrical hazards.

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.

Pre-Screen

  • Upon offer, employees may be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.

License & Certifications:

  • Driver License Required.

Travel Requirements:

  • Must have transportation to and from the show up location.

Physical Requirements:

  • RARE (less than 10%): sitting, kneeling, crawling, color vision, climbing stairs.
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): stooping, squatting, climbing on/off truck, reading, pushing, climbing ladders, lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): walking, body twisting, manual dexterity, speaking clearly, hearing-speech range, lifting, carrying, pulling, balancing, lifting up to 10 lbs.
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): standing, sense of touch, seeing distant, climbing, gripping, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., seeing, reaching, range of motion, depth perception.

 Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.

"


Benefits
We offer a competitive range of benefits to support our employees’ health, well-being, and financial security. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to all eligible employees on the first day of employment. For more information on the benefits available for this role, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager.
Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer.
Please note:
  • All job offers are subject to pre-employment drug screening and a background check.
  • Unless otherwise noted, we do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Notice to Agencies: We only accept resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing services if a Service Agreement has been signed and we have requested recruitment/staffing services for the specific position. Any unsolicited resumes will become the property of the company, and no fees or compensation will be paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or staffing service.

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