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Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$27.79/hr

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

ABCI

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - ABCIABCI, 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 ...

Jennmar

Heavy Equipment Operator

Washington, PA · On-site

JENNMAR Services, a staffing company specializing in employee placement for the energy industry, is currently seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator for one of our customers in the Eastern PA area

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 ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$14

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$33

How much do heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 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.

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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What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

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

Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Essel

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

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 troubleshoot various types of heavy machinery used in construction, excavation, and landfill gas collection projects. You will play a critical role in helping us complete projects safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Responsibilities:
  • Operate heavy equipment including excavators, bulldozers, skid steers, and loaders.
  • Perform site preparation, excavation, grading, trenching, and backfilling.
  • Inspect equipment daily, perform preventative maintenance, and report any issues.
  • Follow all safety protocols, jobsite rules, and regulations.
  • Collaborate with crew members and communicate effectively for safe and coordinated operations.
  • Assist with landfill gas collection and leachate systems excavation if required.
  • Read and interpret project plans, blueprints, and site layouts.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Requirements

Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 7 years experience operating heavy equipment in construction or related field; experience in landfill projects is a plus.
  • Ability to operate multiple types of equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Strong understanding of jobsite safety practices and OSHA regulations.
  • Valid driver's license; CDL preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction plans and blueprints.
  • Physical ability to perform heavy lifting and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
  • Plus to have HAZWOPER40

Benefits

Standard Benefits.

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About Essel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and temporary help services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

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