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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 Aug 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.

Are heavy equipment operators in demand?

Heavy equipment operators are in high demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and maintenance work. Employment opportunities often require certifications and experience with machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, and job growth is expected to remain steady in the coming years.

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 do I become a heavy equipment operator?

To become a heavy equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a training program or apprenticeship that teaches equipment operation and safety. Many operators obtain certification from industry organizations, and employers often require a valid driver's license and physical fitness for the physically demanding work environment.
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 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,161 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tradesmen International, Inc.

Knoxville, TN โ€ข On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted just now


Job description

Description
Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for projects located in or around Knowville, TN. 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 mini excavators and skid steers for site preparation
  • Grading, trenching, and material handling
  • Conduct daily equipment inspections and safety checks
  • Follow site plans and project specifications to complete assigned tasks
  • Assist with general labor duties as needed
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area
  • Follow all job site safety procedures and operating standards

Requirements:
  • Must have a minimum of 7 years of heavy equipment operating experience
  • Must possess a valid Class A CDL
  • Must be willing to obtain a Tanker Endorsement after hire
  • Must have experience operating mini excavators and skid steers
  • Must have a strong understanding of job site safety protocols
  • Must be able to perform physical work and assist with manual labor as needed
  • Must be reliable, safety-conscious, and able to work independently or as part of a team
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen

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-KNOXVILLE