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Heavy Equipment Owner Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Of Gary

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gary, IN · On-site

$38K/yr

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR Department: Public Works Position: Heavy Equipment Operator Status ... Must be certified to operate all heavy equipment owned by General Services. Load and offload trees ...

F and P construction

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Reno, NV · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The ideal candidate will have expertise in operating a variety of heavy machinery and equipment ... F and P Construction is family owned and operated. We specialize in industrial construction and ...

Bonness Inc.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS

Naples, FL · On-site

Summary: Proficiently operate a variety of heavy equipment utilized in the construction ... Bonness Inc. is a family owned and operated contractor serving our community since 1981. Our ...

Bonness Inc.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS

Naples, FL · On-site

Summary: Proficiently operate a variety of heavy equipment utilized in the construction ... Bonness Inc. is a family owned and operated contractor serving our community since 1981. Our ...

Bonness Inc.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS

Naples, FL · On-site

DOE Summary: Proficiently operate a variety of heavy equipment utilized in the construction ... Bonness Inc. is a family owned and operated contractor serving our community since 1981. Our ...

Kimble

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dover, OH · On-site

This position operates heavy equipment used in spreading, covering, loading, and/or compacting ... Kimble Company is locally owned and operated by the Kimble Family, with over 70 years of experience ...

Constructors, Inc.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lincoln, NE · On-site

NEBCO is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business, with more than 1,100 employees ... Position Summary Constructors, Inc. is searching for a Heavy Equipment Operators to operate various ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Owner Operator Jobs

Heavy Equipment Owner Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do heavy equipment owner operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment owner operator 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Equipment Owner Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Owner Operator, you need proficiency in operating various types of heavy machinery, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), and often several years of relevant experience. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, equipment maintenance procedures, and safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Strong attention to detail, self-motivation, and effective communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently, often independently or as part of a larger construction team. These abilities are crucial for ensuring job site safety, maximizing equipment lifespan, and completing projects on time and within budget.

What's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators typically work in specialized industries such as oil and gas, mining, or large-scale construction projects, earning salaries that can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually. Factors like experience, certifications, and operating advanced machinery such as cranes or bulldozers can increase earning potential.

What trucking company pays owner-operators the most?

For heavy equipment owner-operators, pay rates vary widely depending on the company, region, and type of equipment operated. Generally, companies that offer dedicated routes, higher mileage rates, or specialized hauling tend to pay more. It's important to compare pay structures, bonuses, and benefits when evaluating potential employers in the trucking industry.

What is the highest paying heavy equipment operator?

The highest paying heavy equipment operators are often those who specialize in niche areas such as crane operation, underground mining, or work in high-demand industries like oil and gas. Experienced operators with certifications, such as NCCCO or NCCER, and those working in remote or hazardous environments tend to earn the highest wages, which can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually depending on location and experience.

What are Heavy Equipment Owner Operators?

Heavy Equipment Owner Operators are professionals who own and operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes, typically for construction, mining, or agricultural projects. Unlike employees who use company-owned equipment, these operators invest in and maintain their own machinery, contracting their services to various clients. This role requires operating skills, business management, and equipment maintenance knowledge. Owner operators are responsible for all aspects of their business, including scheduling, billing, and compliance with safety regulations.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Owner Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Equipment Owner OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), equipment-specific certificationsBasic CDL or standard operator certifications
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed or leased equipment, on-site construction or industrial sitesEmployer-owned equipment, construction sites, mining, or industrial settings
Employer/Industry UsageTypically works independently or manages own equipmentWorks for construction companies or contractors

Heavy Equipment Owner Operators own and operate their equipment, often working independently, while Heavy Equipment Operators are usually employed by companies and operate equipment owned by their employer. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in ownership and employment structure.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and working overtime or hazardous conditions can also increase earning potential.

What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Equipment Owner Operators, and how can they be managed?

Heavy Equipment Owner Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining their equipment, managing fluctuating workloads, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Equipment maintenance requires both technical knowledge and proactive scheduling to prevent costly breakdowns. Additionally, operators must efficiently coordinate with project managers and other trades on-site to ensure smooth workflow and compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements. Building strong communication skills and staying current with industry best practices can help overcome these challenges and ensure long-term success.
More about Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Owner Operator job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs are:
Heavy Equipment Owner Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Owner Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 20% Contract. 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 Operator

City Of Gary

Gary, IN • On-site

$38K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR



Department: Public Works

Position: Heavy Equipment Operator

Status: Full Time

Salary: $38,000



JOB DESCRIPTION:


Heavy Equipment Operator Class B are the drivers and handlers of all various pieces of equipment which are utilized by the General Services Department. Heavy Equipment Operators must be able to meet the Federal/ State / City legal requirements and licensing, as well as be physically able to drive the heavy equipment and assist in the tasks assigned for that day. Operating Heavy Equipment, Road Graders, Cutting Tractors, Pay loaders, Snowplow Trucks, Roll-Off Trucks, and Garbage Trucks.

QUALIFICATIONS:


Must have a valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Class A or Class B with Air Brakes. Must be certified to operate all heavy equipment owned by General Services. Load and offload trees, debris, and other materials from heavy equipment. Load and unload equipment onto and off of vehicles and trailers, and properly secure it using chains and ratchet binders.

About City of Gary, Norman County, Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MISSION STATEMENT The City of Gary promotes the assets and opportunities available in Gary, encouraging continual improvement of quality of life and quality of place throughout, and for, the current and future generations of the city. VISION STATEMENT The City of Gary will develop short-term and long-term strategies that promote quality of life and quality of place. Strategies will capitalize on positive community and organizational partnerships and will support ongoing improvement and promotion of youth and family development, businesses, natural resources, parks, recreation, education, housing, infrastructure, community services for all ages, and business development.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Gary, MN, US

Year founded

1886

Social media

Facebook

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