1

Heavy Equipment Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Safely operates a variety of heavy equipment, not limited to; backhoes, excavators ... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ...

Job Summary Safely operates a variety of heavy equipment, not limited to; backhoes, excavators ... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ...

Current and valid driver's license * 2 years of equipment operating experience * Ability to work in ... Commitment to teamwork, safe work practices, and integrity About IMCO IMCO, a heavy civil general ...

Heavy Equipment Operators

Oxbow, OR · On-site

$40 - $46/hr

Current and valid driver's license * 2 years of equipment operating experience * Ability to work in ... Commitment to teamwork, safe work practices, and integrity About IMCO IMCO, a heavy civil general ...

Heavy Equipment Operators AMAT Draper, Utah, United States Job ID: 525550 Reynolds Excavation, Demolition & Utilities is a CRH Company. Our purpose, commitment to the future, and formula for growth ...

Equipment Operator Key Responsibilities (Essential Duties and Functions) * Operate equipment safely and efficiently. * Responsible for safe slopes on excavations and proper barricading. * Locate ...

... operators for civil construction projects, including commercial, public infrastructure, and subdivision work. What You Will Do * Operate heavy equipment safely to cut, fill, backfill, grade, and load ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Heavy Equipment Operators information

See salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do heavy equipment operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operators job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operators

Heavy Equipment Operators

S.T. Wooten Corporation

Wilmington, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


S.T. Wooten rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

JOB LOCATION: Wilmington, NC

AVAILABLE POSITIONS: 2


PRIMARY FUNCTION:

Operate one or several types of power construction equipment including but not limited to motor-graders, bulldozers, rubber tire backhoes or trackhoes, rollers, articulated dump truck drivers, front-end loaders or hydraulic excavators to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete, asphalt, or other hard surface pavement on roadbeds, parking lots, airport runways and taxiways. Will perform minor repairs and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Commercial Heavy Grade

1.) Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, or other materials, using trucks, power cranes, shovels, or related equipment.

2.) Start machine, engage clutch, and push and move levers, switches, and pedals to guide machine along forms or guidelines and to control the operation of machine attachments, such as blades, buckets, scrapers, or swing booms.

3.) Drive and maneuver equipment equipped with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation, or rocks or to distribute and level earth or terrain.

4.) Operate machinery to spread, smooth, level, stone, concrete, or asphalt on road beds or other job sites as needed.

5.) Operate tamping machines or manually roll surfaces to compact earth fills, foundation forms, and finished road materials, according to grade specifications.

6.) Observe grade in order to adjust machine settings to correct uneven areas such as high or low areas where materials may need to be added or cut.

7.) Conduct documented pre-shift inspections of equipment for safety and mechanical defects in accordance with company TPR standards.

8.) Work long, flexible hours as demanded by our customers including nights, weekends, and work outside for extended periods during all seasons of the year.

9.) Align machines, cutter heads, buckets or depth gauge markers with reference stakes and guidelines or ground or position equipment, following hand signals of other workers.

10.) Coordinate machine actions with other activities or trucks by positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.

11.) Inspect, clean, maintain, and repair equipment, using mechanics' hand tools. Conduct pre-shift inspections and report any concerns or malfunctions to supervisors.

12.) Learn and follow safety regulations and be held responsible for at-fault accidents.

13.) Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.

14.) Perform necessary work while complying with all company policies and procedures as well as any regulatory authority (i.e. OSHA, MSHA, etc.)

15.) Perform additional duties as required or directed by their immediate supervisor or other manager.

16.) From time to time will preform general labor duties such as shoveling, raking, climbing inclines, as well as lifting, carrying, and loading materials on uneven terrain.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Must be a minimum of 21 years old.

Work Experience:

  • Minimum of 2 years' operating heavy equipment experience on a backhoe, dozer or excavator.
  • Must be able to fine grade with a bulldozer and excavator.
  • Experience on multiple machines a plus.
  • Grading and excavation on commercial job sites required.
  • Must have a good work ethic and work as a team player.
  • If not operating heavy equipment the candidate will be required to perform general labor work if needed.
  • Qualified candidate should be able to read plans and work with grades.

Other:

  • Must have reliable and dependable transportation to the job site.
  • Working outside in all types of weather is a must in this industry.
  • Regular and constant attendance is a must.
  • If needed, must be willing to work nights and weekends.
  • Applicant must be able to pass a background check for the NC Ports and military bases.

Heavy Physical Demands:

Heavy physical effort required including pulling and lifting or moving heavy weight material with frequent lifting or moving materials or equipment (over 80 pounds). If a position specific Physical Demands sheet is attached, it will describe in more detail the physical demands that are required.


Physical Activity:

Position requires the ability to continuously work around any or all of the following: noise, dust, heat, cold, oil and heavy equipment. Personal protective equipment is normally required of the position. Position requires ability to exchange ideas quickly and clearly and the ability to receive and evaluate detailed information and instructions.


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the position. All employees may have other duties assigned at any time.

EOE. Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.


What S.T. Wooten employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom