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Heavy Equipment Operators Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

AtWork is now hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators in the Knoxville, TN area. A Heavy Equipment Operators primary responsibility is to complete assigned tasks safely and accurately using ...

The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as it pertains to operating heavy off-road mobile equipment. Benefits * Competitive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Prescription ...

Our heavy equipment operators take their careers to the next level by working on equipment that requires a high level of skill - and determination. Our waste disposal sites have strict procedures in ...

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Heavy Equipment Operators information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do heavy equipment operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operators in Tennessee is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How much do heavy equipment operators make?

Heavy equipment operators in South Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. Skilled operators with certifications in equipment like bulldozers or cranes may earn higher wages, especially in construction and infrastructure projects.

Which heavy equipment operator job pays the most?

Heavy equipment operators working in specialized roles such as crane or excavator operators often earn the highest wages, especially when working on large infrastructure projects or in remote locations. Certifications, experience, and working with complex machinery can also increase earning potential. Generally, operators with skills in multiple equipment types and those working overtime or hazardous environments tend to have higher pay rates.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operators jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Heavy Equipment Operators job openings:

Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operators job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,772 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

AtWork

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator

Put your skills to great use with a company that can truly appreciate you and a place where you can grow! AtWork is now hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators in the Knoxville, TN area.

A Heavy Equipment Operators primary responsibility is to complete assigned tasks safely and accurately using construction equipment. Typical Heavy Equipment Operator job duties include:

  • Loading and unloading equipment from vehicles used to transport it
  • Inspecting equipment before and after use to ensure its in good working order
  • Driving or controlling heavy equipment to complete tasks at the construction site
  • Monitoring performance and adjusting settings as required to perform tasks correctly
  • Tracking scheduled maintenance of equipment and notifying their Supervisor if maintenance is past due
  • Filling out performance records to report problems with equipment and track where and when it was used
  • Cleaning equipment after use and disposing of any collected scraps or waste
  • Completing minor repair work as needed

Experience with Excavators and Mini-Excavators preferred