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Heavy Equipment Operators Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Levy

Heavy Equipment Operator, SMS

Memphis, TN · On-site

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 ...

Waste Management

III, Heavy Equipment Operator

Sparta, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

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 ...

Waste Management

III, Heavy Equipment Operator

Sparta, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

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 ...

Waste Management

III, Heavy Equipment Operator

Sparta, TN · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

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

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How much do heavy equipment operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 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 are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operators jobs in Tennessee?

For Heavy Equipment Operators jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operators jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operators jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

Heavy Equipment Operators jobs near you
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.

Light/Heavy Equipment Operator

Nashville, TN

Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC
Construction • 1 - 5K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Good employer

Respectful managers

Good training

Learn more about Brasfield & Gorrie, LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities

NOW HIRING EQUIPMENT OPERATORS | NASHVILLE, TN 

Light Equipment Operator | Heavy Equipment Operator 

Brasfield & Gorrie is hiring experienced equipment operators at all levels for active commercial construction sites in Nashville and surrounding areas. Whether you run skid steers and mini excavators or large dozers and excavators, we have consistent, long-term work on some of Nashville's most prominent projects. 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT 

  • Local, consistent work in the Nashville area 
  • Competitive pay based on equipment type and experience 
  • Reliable, full-time hours 
  • Safe, organized job sites with steady projects 
  • Opportunities to grow your skills and operate additional equipment 

CURRENT PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS 

  • 1010 Church | 60-Story Multi-Family | Nashville, TN 
  • 1740 Division Street | 20-Story Multi-Family | Nashville, TN 
  • Chestnut Street | Office and Venue Development | Nashville, TN 
  • Harpeth Hall STEM Building | School Addition | Nashville, TN 
  • 1221 Grundy | 16-Story Multi-Family | Nashville, TN 
  • Amazon | Tower 2 Tenant Buildout | Nashville, TN 
  • Belle Meade Plaza | Condo and Non Condo | Nashville, TN 
  • Vanderbilt University | Utility Corridor | Nashville, TN 
  • Edition Hotel and Residences | 28-Story Multi Family | Nashville, TN 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

LIGHT EQUIPMENT OPERATOR 

  • Operate mini excavators, skid steers, rollers, compactors, forklifts, and telehandlers 
  • Move, load, and unload materials; perform grading, digging, and lifting tasks 
  • Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on equipment 
  • Follow all safety protocols and maintain a drug-free work environment 

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR 

  • Operate large excavators, bulldozers, motor graders, and scrapers 
  • Execute grading, excavation, site prep, and material handling tasks 
  • Read and interpret grade stakes and basic site plans 
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and preventive maintenance 
  • CDL preferred 

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Light Equipment Operators: prior experience operating mini excavators, skid steers, forklifts, or similar equipment required 
  • Heavy Equipment Operators: proven experience on large excavators, dozers, graders, or scrapers required;  
  • CDL preferred 
  • Familiarity with general construction site operations and safety procedures 
  • Ability to perform basic equipment maintenance and pre-shift inspections 
  • Safety-conscious, reliable, and ready to work 
  • Must work in a drug-free environment 

WHY WORK WITH US 

At Brasfield & Gorrie, our purpose is building exceptional people, trusting relationships, great projects, and strong communities. Safety, performance, integrity, respect, innovation, and teamwork define our approach. We are committed to honoring our word and living by the Golden Rule. 

This posting covers light and heavy equipment operator roles. The specific position offered will be based on your experience, certifications, and current project needs at the time of hire. 

Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

EOE/Vets/Disabilities 

Qualifications:

3 years Industrial Construction Equipment Operator experience preferred. 

EOE/Vets/Disabilities

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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