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Heavy Equipment Operators Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

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Heavy Equipment Operators information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do heavy equipment operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operators in Oak Ridge, TN is $22.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.72 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 near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operators jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Heavy Equipment Operators job openings:

Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operators job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,161 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tradesmen International, Inc.

Kingston, TN • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description
Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for projects located in the Kingston, TN area. This is a first shift opportunity, and the pay rate is up to $28/hour based on experience and skill level. If you are a Heavy Equipment Operator and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity, and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career!
Job Scope:
  • Operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, and other heavy machinery
  • Move, spread, and grade dirt across residential construction sites
  • Achieve proper elevations, slopes, and site grade according to plans
  • Understand grading plans, site layouts & grade stakes to ensure accurate earthwork

Requirements
  • 5+ years of heavy equipment operator experience with extensive experience in mass grading

Company Details
Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.
Our comprehensive benefits include:
  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program - earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability
"Be Safe" from fraud! Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other "up front" costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.
Click here to visit Tradesmen's full website.
Location
US-TN-KINGSTON