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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quinn Sales Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gastonia, NC · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Duties and Responsibilities: * Operate various pieces of large equipment (Excavators, Dozers, Rollers, Motorgrader, Trucks, Wheel Loader, Track Loader, Skid Steer) in ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate, maintain, and ...

Cobalt Civil

Heavy Equipment Operator

Winchester, IN

Heavy Equipment Operator ID: 1119 Department: Operations Location: Winchester, IN More about this job > Description HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITES Will conduct themselves in a manner that ...

Turner Mining Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Kershaw, SC · On-site

$25 - $28.50/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Turner Staffing Group Location: Kershaw, South Carolina, USA Position Type: Full-Time About Us: Turner Staffing Group, in collaboration with our esteemed mining ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ocala, FL

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that ...

New

ABCI

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - ABCI ABCI, a local mid-sized civil construction company, is seeking a full-time, experienced Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. The Heavy Equipment Operator is ...

Managing Waste Firm

Heavy Equipment Operator

Nantucket, MA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Company: Waste Options Nantucket LLC Location: Nantucket, NY Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Competitive, based on experience Reports to: Operations Supervisor About Us ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator at Essel Essel is seeking a reliable and skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our growing team. As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate, maintain, and ...

Clark Companies

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lansing, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Location: Lansing, MI Pay: $25-$35/ HR Operate Modern Equipment on High-Profile Construction Projects Clark Companies is seeking a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator information

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How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 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.

How much do equipment operators make?

Heavy equipment operators in Ohio typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $62,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, and the type of equipment operated, such as bulldozers or cranes.

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 commercial driver's license (CDL) in some cases. Certification from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with operating machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders is essential.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Heavy equipment operators with specialized skills, extensive experience, or working in high-demand industries such as construction, mining, or oil and gas can earn around $700 per day. These roles often require certifications, operating large machinery, and working long hours or in remote locations. Compensation varies based on location, project complexity, and union or contractor status.

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 roles are often in specialized fields such as crane or excavator operators working in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries. These positions typically require advanced certifications, experience, and operating large or complex machinery, which can lead to higher salaries. Salaries vary by region and industry demand but can exceed $70,000 annually for top-tier roles.

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
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Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Quinn Sales Inc.

Gastonia, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and safety-oriented heavy equipment operator to join our team and safely and efficiently operate a variety of equipment. In addition to properly operating the equipment, you will also be responsible for inspecting, providing preventative maintenance, and occasionally repairing equipment when required.
Heavy Equipment Operator Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate various pieces of large equipment (Excavators, Dozers, Rollers, Motorgrader, Trucks, Wheel Loader, Track Loader, Skid Steer) in accordance with company procedures and safety regulations.
  • Conduct pre-operation checks on equipment, clean, lubricate, and refill the equipment as necessary.
  • Provide preventative maintenance to ensure equipment is safe and operating properly.
  • Regularly clean equipment to preserve its quality and functionality.
  • Perform minor repairs on equipment issues.
  • Report needs for larger repairs to the appropriate parties.
  • Basic understanding of grade stakes and blue prints.
  • Abide by all local, state, and federal regulations, as well as all company safety procedures.
  • Commit to the overall safety of the work environment by always taking extra precautions to work with the utmost care and consideration.

Heavy Equipment Operator Requirements and Qualifications:
  • 3+ years of experience working with and operating heavy equipment.
  • Knowledge of proper operation of heavy equipment as well as safety standards.
  • Ability to maintain, inspect, clean, and occasionally repair pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Keen attention to detail and situational awareness to maintain the safety of the work environment.
  • Strong work ethic and physical ability to lift 50+ pounds.
  • Operate all heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.
  • Overtime as required.
  • Work is performed in an outdoor setting, which could include inclement weather, heat and humidity, and exposure to dust and asphalt. 

Pay Rate and Benefits:
  • Competitive pay based on experience.
  • Insurance – Health, Vision, & Dental.
  • 401K.
  • Paid Holidays.
  • Paid Time Off