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Heavy Equipment Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Savard Group

Heavy Equipment Operators

Daphne, AL · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator $1,625+ WEEKLY Join SAVARD Personnel Group - where your skills are valued! Key Requirements: * Minimum 5 years of heavy equipment operating experience required. * Must have ...

ASI Paving

Heavy Equipment Operators

Pontiac, MI

We are now accepting applications for Heavy Equipment Operators with experience to perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites The equipment operator will safely and efficiently ...

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Heavy Equipment Operators information

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$33

How much do heavy equipment operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operators 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 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 a day. These roles often require certifications, operating heavy machinery like cranes or bulldozers, and working in challenging environments or overtime schedules.

How do I get into operating heavy equipment?

To become a heavy equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship to learn how to operate machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, or excavators. Many employers require certification or licensing, which involves passing written and practical exams, and gaining hands-on experience is essential for proficiency and safety in the field.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment job?

The highest paying heavy equipment jobs typically involve specialized roles such as crane operators, especially those operating large or complex cranes, or heavy equipment supervisors with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and sometimes overtime or hazardous environment pay, leading to higher salaries compared to standard equipment operators.

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 typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certification. Familiarity with equipment like excavators, loaders, and bulldozers, as well as safety systems and GPS technology, is essential. Attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These skills ensure safe equipment operation, minimize downtime, and contribute to successful project completion.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operators vs Crane Operators?

AspectHeavy Equipment OperatorsCrane Operators
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), OSHA certificationsCrane operator certification, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, roadworkConstruction sites, industrial settings, shipping yards
Industry UsageConstruction, mining, agricultureConstruction, shipping, manufacturing

Heavy Equipment Operators and Crane Operators both require specialized certifications and work in construction-related environments. While Heavy Equipment Operators handle machinery like bulldozers and excavators, Crane Operators focus on operating cranes for lifting heavy loads. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial projects, but they differ in equipment specialization and work tasks.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators typically work in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators in high-demand industries like oil and gas or construction, earning salaries exceeding $70,000 annually. Experience, certifications, and working in remote or hazardous environments can increase earning potential significantly.

What are Heavy Equipment Operators?

Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery used in construction, mining, forestry, and other industries. They handle equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and loaders to move earth, lift heavy materials, and complete various tasks on job sites. Their responsibilities include inspecting equipment, following safety protocols, and ensuring efficient operation to support project goals. Proper training and certification are usually required for this role.

What are some typical challenges Heavy Equipment Operators face on the job, and how can they be managed?

Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, navigating uneven or confined job sites, and maintaining strict safety standards around other workers and machinery. Managing these challenges requires strong situational awareness, adherence to safety protocols, and effective communication with site supervisors and crew members. Regular equipment inspections and ongoing safety training also play a vital role in preventing accidents and ensuring smooth operations.
More about Heavy Equipment Operators jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operators jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Operators job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Equipment Operators jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Operators jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operators jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operators jobs are:
Heavy Equipment Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operators job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operators

Industrial Builders, Inc.

West Fargo, ND • On-site

Temporary

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Thank you for considering joining the IBI team!
Please note that you must complete and submit this application in one sitting; it will not save if you move off the page. It typically takes 5-10 minutes to complete the application.
Position Description
The Heavy Equipment Operator III will perform highly complex and difficult construction and maintenance activities by operating a variety of heavy equipment.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Operates a variety of heavy equipment such as a derrick, pile driver, concrete paver, crane, shovel, and dragline to accomplish difficult or highly complex tasks.
  • Prior to operating equipment, conducts routine inspections to identify needed maintenance or repairs.
  • Monitors gauges and other indicators to ensure safe operation.
  • Performs or requests necessary repairs and adjustments to equipment.
  • Assists with repairs as needed.
  • Adheres to all safety rules, guidelines, and codes.
  • Maintains records of time worked and materials used.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Thorough understanding of practices involved in the use of various types of heavy equipment.
  • Thorough understanding of maintenance and basic repairs associated with heavy equipment.
  • Thorough understanding of safety rules and ability to safely operate machinery.
  • Superior skill operating assigned equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Read engineering drawings and follow instruction.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Must be drug free, as operators are subject to random DOT drug testing.

Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent, with at least three years of experience operating construction equipment at Heavy Equipment Operator II level with demonstrated ability to perform finish-grade work; OR
  • Some high school education or equivalent with at least four years of experience operating construction equipment at Heavy Equipment Operator II level with demonstrated ability to perform finish-grade work;
  • OR any equivalent combination of training and experience.
  • Valid driver's license.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to physically operate heavy equipment.
  • Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and stand to operate and repair heavy equipment.
  • Must be able to work in all types of weather, including extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.

Equal Opportunity Employer
IBI is an EOE: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. All are encouraged to apply.

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