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Heavy Equipment Test Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John Deere GmbH & Co. KG

$19.25 - $25.25/hr

John Deere Dubuque - Heavy Equipment Test Mechanic At John Deere, we run so life can leap forward. This powerful purpose is our promise to humankind that we will dream, design, and deliver ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rougemont, NC · On-site

$33 - $35/hr

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end ... Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment. * Complete the ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Rougemont, NC · On-site

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end ... Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment. * Complete the ...

Matrix Service Company

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$55 - $58/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Work under the direction from General Foreman or Superintendent on daily ... Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment. * Able to run ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Republic, WA

$35 - $37/hr

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end ... Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment. * Complete the ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Republic, WA · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

Responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment including but not limited to front-end ... Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment. * Complete the ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$55 - $58/hr

Operates a variety of heavy equipment including backhoes, excavators, dozers, loaders, graders and ... Must be able to pass equipment test and visual observation of operating equipment. * Able to run ...

ABCI

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lubbock, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - ABCI ABCI, a local mid-sized civil construction company, is seeking a ... Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test * Effective communication skills (speech, vision ...

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

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment test 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 does a heavy equipment test operator do?

A Heavy Equipment Test Operator is responsible for operating and testing various types of heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders, to ensure they function properly and meet safety standards. They evaluate the equipment's performance, identify any mechanical issues, and report findings to maintenance or engineering teams. This role is crucial in manufacturing, construction, and equipment rental industries to guarantee the reliability and safety of machinery before it is used on job sites.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment test operator?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Test Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, experience with various heavy machinery, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with diagnostic software, data logging systems, and sometimes certifications like a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top operators apart. These skills ensure the safe, efficient evaluation of equipment performance and reliable feedback for engineering and maintenance teams.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy equipment test operators, and how can they be managed?

Heavy Equipment Test Operators often encounter challenges such as operating machinery in varying weather conditions, managing safety risks, and identifying subtle mechanical or performance issues during tests. Effective communication with engineering teams and following strict safety protocols are essential for addressing these challenges. Staying organized and attentive to detail helps operators provide accurate feedback, which is critical for equipment improvements and overall project success.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Test Operator vs Heavy Equipment Mechanic?

AspectHeavy Equipment Test OperatorHeavy Equipment Mechanic
CertificationsOperator licenses, safety certificationsASE certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, testing facilitiesRepair shops, maintenance sites
Job FocusTesting and operating equipment to ensure functionalityDiagnosing, repairing, and maintaining equipment

While both roles involve heavy equipment, the Heavy Equipment Test Operator primarily focuses on testing and operating machinery to verify performance, often in testing environments. In contrast, the Heavy Equipment Mechanic specializes in repairing and maintaining equipment to ensure operational readiness. Certifications, work settings, and job responsibilities distinguish these roles, though they often collaborate within the same industry sectors.

What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Test Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Test Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Test Operator jobs?

For Heavy Equipment Test Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Heavy Equipment Test Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Test Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% 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.

John Deere Dubuque - Heavy Equipment Test Mechanic

Dubuque, IA • On-site

John Deere GmbH & Co. KG
See more jobs at John Deere GmbH & Co. KGexternal

$24.50 - $32.25/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

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John Deere Dubuque - Heavy Equipment Test Mechanic

At John Deere, we run so life can leap forward. This powerful purpose is our promise to humankind that we will dream, design, and deliver breakthrough products that sustain our world for generations to come. The world is counting on us to feed billions of people and build vital infrastructures in villages, towns and megacities. And we live up to the legacy our founder forged in a one-room blacksmith's shop nearly two centuries ago by creating a culture that brings out the best in all of us. A culture where great ideas thrive because every voice is heard.

Primary Location:United States (US)- Iowa - Dubuque

As aHeavy Equipment Test Mechanicwith John Deere in Dubuque, IA, you will:

Set up, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and operate hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical equipment to conduct laboratory and field tests of agricultural implements and components as part of the product development process.

Job details are dependent on duties assigned but in general consist of the following:

  • Effectively work with engineers and customers in planning, developing, implementing, and executing field or lab testing of equipment.
  • Diagnose issues and make necessary repairs and adjustments as required to complete test.
  • Fabricate parts by cutting, bending, machining, assembling, and welding as needed.
  • Record findings and create written reports to document test conditions, performance, quality, and work performed.
  • Disassemble units after tests and check for misalignment and wear.
  • Lubricate, adds coolant, and clean equipment.
  • Assist and support other team members and work with minimal supervision.
  • Clean work area and perform other miscellaneous duties inherent to the job.
  • Work shifts (choice of shift based on seniority).
  • May also perform duties such as:
    • Prepare and load equipment for movement to test site.
    • Make personal contacts with dealers and branch personnel to finalize arrangements for tests.
    • Perform setup on machine for test, including assembly, adjusting, fueling and lubrication.
    • Operate equipment under field test conditions.
    • Install and/or operate instrumentation for tests.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must have at least one of the following:
    • High School Diploma or G.E.D.
    • National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
    • At least 3 years of manufacturing work experience
  • Mechanical journeyperson’s card or at least 4 years of heavy equipment diesel mechanic work experience (or equivalent Military experience / training).
  • Ability to perform manual tasks related to described job duties for duration of work shift, including but not limited to frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting.
  • Ability and willingness to work any shift and potential overtime (including weekends).
Why Work at John Deere?

Why Work anywhere else?

If you strive to do great work, excel in creative environments, thrive in teams, and live for problem solving – this is the place for you.

At John Deere, your ideas, experiences, and values matter.

Please see below for a summary of the value of your John Deere career and total rewards available to you to support you and your well-being.

  • Highly competitive base pay and performance bonuses
  • Savings & Retirement benefits
  • Wellbeing – Physical and Mental Healthcare
  • Paid Holidays & Competitive Vacation Packages
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Fitness subsidies and on-site gyms at specific Deere locations
  • Charitable contribution match
  • Rebate Program & numerous discount programs for personal use

John Deere is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Copyright 2022 Deere & Company. All Rights Reserved.

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