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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Vulcan Materials Company

Equipment Operator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$40.89 - $47.31/hr

Job Summary This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy off-highway ... The Equipment Operator will prioritize safety, perform equipment inspections and minor maintenance ...

New

Vulcan Materials Company

Equipment Operator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$40.89 - $47.31/hr

Job Summary This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy off-highway ... The Equipment Operator will prioritize safety, perform equipment inspections and minor maintenance ...

New

Peterson

Heavy Duty Repair Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$45/hr

... in heavy equipment service; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience. Must be a member of Local 3 of the Operating Engineers or be willing to become one as a condition of ...

Anonymous Employer

Plant Operator

Middletown, CA

$40 - $50/hr

Power Plant Operators are responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power ... Operate heavy equipment (manlifts, forklifts) and handle/transfer bulk chemicals * **Process ...

New

Calpine

Operator Technician III

Middletown, CA · On-site

$66.16 - $67.48/hr

Uses computers and monitoring equipment to measure, record and make adjustments within operating ... Regularly required to maintain plan security, operate heavy equipment such as manlifts and ...

Calpine

Operator Technician II

Middletown, CA · On-site

$58.94 - $60.71/hr

Uses computers and monitoring equipment to measure, record and make adjustments within operating ... Regularly required to maintain plan security, operate heavy equipment such as manlifts and ...

New

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

$25

$36

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Santa Rosa, CA is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $29.42 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.
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Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,934 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Vulcan Materials Company

Petaluma, CA • On-site

$40.89 - $47.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Vulcan Materials rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 543 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Summary
This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy off-highway equipment used to transport raw materials and/or finished products within the facility. The Equipment Operator will prioritize safety, perform equipment inspections and minor maintenance, and monitor plant operations to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
Essential Functions
Safely operate off-highway equipment to transport raw materials and/or finished products throughout the facility in a safe and efficient manner.
Perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections and accurately completing daily mobile equipment reports and other relevant documentation.
Maintain equipment performance by checking vehicle fluid levels and adding correct fluids as necessary and assisting in performing other minor maintenance.
Monitor the plant and operations and report any necessary maintenance or adjustments that may be required to ensure safety.
Load and unload aggregate materials according to specifications and production demands.
Maintain accurate records of materials moved, equipment hours, and daily activities.
Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, procedures, and MSHA regulations.
Critical Competencies
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.
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.
Problem Solving - Identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. Finds practical solutions, implements fixes, and adapts to unexpected challenges.
Attention to Detail - Ability to thoroughly and accurately complete tasks; meticulous and precise when handling information, and is critical in ensuring the quality, accuracy, and integrity of the results.
Adaptability - Adapts to new conditions, is flexible and open-minded when facing challenges, and maintains high performance during change.
Teamwork and Collaboration - Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve common goals; contributes positively to group efforts, sharing knowledge, and being open to others' ideas and feedback.

Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience
Previous experience operating heavy construction equipment is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of general principles and practices of operating and servicing heavy construction equipment is preferred.
Strong understanding of MSHA regulations and a commitment to safety.
Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment inspections and maintenance.
Good communication skills.
Other Requirements
Ability to sit for extended periods of time while operating equipment.
Ability to ascend and descend equipment safely.
Ability to work in outdoor environments, including exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Hourly Range. The base hourly range for this role is between $40.89 - $47.31 per hour. 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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