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Heavy Equipment Test Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Anacortes, 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 ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Anacortes, WA

$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 ...

Matrix

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

Bellingham, 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 ...

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

Bellingham, 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 ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ferndale, MI · 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 ...

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 ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Ferndale, 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 ...

Matrix Service

Heavy Equipment Operator

Anacortes, 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 ...

Matrix

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 ...

County of Siskiyou

Heavy Equipment Operator

Yreka, CA · On-site

$51K - $65K/yr

Under general supervision, this position involves operating various heavy equipment and specialized ... Applicants must pass a DOT pre-employment physical examination and drug test. NOTE: This job ...

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Heavy Equipment Test Operator information

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

As of Sep 12, 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.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Junction City, KS

Crossland Heavy Contractors Inc
Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Crossland Heavy Contractors Incexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Get to Know Us:

If you are looking for a career in construction then you've come to the right place!

Crossland Construction is a leader in the industry and we are growing-right here in the Midwest-with opportunities for hard working, dedicated men and women to join our team. Crossland works year round and offers top pay, great benefits including health and dental insurance, a 401k retirement plan, paid time off, paid education to allow you to move up, and much more! You would join a team of people with a passion for construction who love to build and who know that their hard work will pay off.

Whether you have several years of experience under your belt or you are new in the industry you can have a career at Crossland!

Crossland Benefits:

  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401 (k) retirement plan with guaranteed match
  • Paid time off
  • Holiday pay
  • Paid education opportunities

Job Qualifications:

We are currently accepting applications for Heavy Equipment Operators for Junction City, KS. Candidates for Heavy Equipment Operator must have at least 3-5 years of experience on bulldozers, loaders, backhoes, excavators, scrapers and graders.  Must have own transportation, be highly motivated, and willing to travel. Drug screen, physical and criminal background check are required of successful candidates.

Essential Responsibilities:

Performs any combination of the following duties on construction projects, usually working in a utility capacity and by transferring from one task to another.

Activities included but not limited to:

*Operating heavy equipment including excavators, dozers and backhoes.

*Operate routinely used tools and equipment

*Perform routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment

*Load and unload equipment from vehicles and trailers

*Complete required paperwork, forms and records as required

*Coordinate machine actions with crew members in response to hand or audio signals

*Ability to work without close supervision once directed on task

*Obeys and follows all safety rules on the job site and encourages others to do the same

*Maintains a good relationship with co-workers and works well with others to accomplish a task.

*Must have water, sewer and drain experience

Physical demands of this position include lifting up to 70 pounds occasionally; 40-50 pounds frequently and carrying same along with constant sitting, grasping and reaching, frequent climbing, walking and standing. Must be able to work year-round outdoors and travel as needed.

EOE/M/F/D/V