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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Tycol Excavating

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Tycol Excavating and Property Services is seeking a skilled and reliable Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support ...

Envirocon

Operator

Kalamazoo, MI

The Equipment Operator will skillfully operate various types of heavy equipment (92,000 lbs. tracked excavator, D-6 dozer, D-8 dozer, 3-5CY loader, etc.) associated with dirt work construction. The ...

Envirocon

Operator

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

The Equipment Operator will skillfully operate various types of heavy equipment (92,000 lbs. tracked excavator, D-6 dozer, D-8 dozer, 3-5CY loader, etc.) associated with dirt work construction. The ...

Amrize

Equipment Operator

Niles, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Equipment Operator Driven by our purpose: Building progress for people and the planet. We are transforming to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions. Amrize is ...

Amrize

Equipment Operator

Niles, MI

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Equipment Operator Driven by our purpose: Building progress for people and the planet. We are transforming to become the global leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions. Amrize is ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsHeavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Three Rivers, MI

Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Three Rivers, MI salary details

$13

$21

$31

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in Three Rivers, MI is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $24.81 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 Three Rivers, MI?

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For Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Three Rivers, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Three Rivers, MI are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Three Rivers, MI with the most Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Three Rivers, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,495 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

CRIPPS FONTAINE EXCAVATING
Construction • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about CRIPPS FONTAINE EXCAVATINGexternal

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator Position

Must have knowledge and experience running

  1. Excavator
  2. Bulldozer
  3. Loader
  4. Skidsteer
  5. Roller

CDL Class A possession is a plus, experience with GPS on equipment is also desired.

Benefits include

  1. PTO Days
  2. Health Insurance
  3. Dental Insurance
  4. Vision Insurance
  5. Life Insurance
  6. 401(k) after one year of service

We are looking for someone with a great attitude, punctual and eager to get the job done right for our heavy equipment operator position. Local work, we have projects ranging from 5 miles to 50 miles from the shop, hours 7a-5pm Monday through Friday.

Must be able to pass a background check and drug test.