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Heavy Equipment Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Opa Locka

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$34K - $65K/hr

TRAINEES ONLY: * One (1) year full time (or equivalent) paid experience in the operation of trucks and light or heavy motorized maintenance equipment ( ie., bobcat, trencher, graders and backhoe)

County of Siskiyou

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Yreka, CA · On-site

$53K - $68K/yr

However, an incumbent may provide some guidance for "work experience" trainees assigned who assist ... Operate light and heavy road maintenance equipment in a safe manner. Use computerized inventory and ...

County of Siskiyou, CA

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Yreka, CA · On-site

$53K - $68K/yr

However, an incumbent may provide some guidance for "work experience" trainees assigned who assist ... Operate light and heavy road maintenance equipment in a safe manner. * Use computerized inventory ...

Ag-Pro

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Athens, GA · On-site

$22.75 - $29.75/hr

Mentors Service Technician Trainees and Service Technicians * Conducts or supports customer clinics ... lawn, or heavy equipment * Experience operating tools and equipment for diagnostic purposes

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Heavy Equipment Trainee information

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How much do heavy equipment trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectHeavy Equipment TraineeHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsBasic safety and equipment operation training, often during apprenticeship or training programsValid commercial driver's license (CDL) or specific equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction yards, or job sites under supervisionActive construction sites, mining, or industrial settings
Job RoleLearning and assisting with equipment operation, gaining hands-on experienceOperating heavy machinery independently to complete construction or industrial tasks

Heavy Equipment Trainees are in the learning phase, focusing on gaining skills and certifications, while Heavy Equipment Operators are experienced workers responsible for operating machinery on job sites. The trainee role emphasizes training and supervision, whereas the operator role involves independent work and responsibility.

What types of equipment and tasks can I expect to train on as a heavy equipment trainee?

As a Heavy Equipment Trainee, you will typically gain hands-on experience with a range of machinery, such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, backhoes, and graders. Your daily responsibilities may include learning how to operate, inspect, and maintain these machines safely and efficiently under the supervision of experienced operators. Training often involves both classroom instruction on safety protocols and regulations, as well as practical sessions on active job sites. You'll also collaborate closely with team members like site supervisors and mechanics to understand workflow and equipment troubleshooting, laying a solid foundation for career advancement in construction or mining operations.

Which heavy equipment trainee job pays the most?

Heavy equipment trainee positions that lead to specialized roles such as crane operator, heavy equipment mechanic, or project supervisor tend to offer higher pay. Salaries increase with experience, certifications, and the complexity of equipment operated, with some advanced roles earning significantly more than entry-level trainees.

How to get a heavy equipment trainee job with no experience?

To become a heavy equipment trainee with no experience, focus on obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent and consider completing a basic training program or certification in heavy equipment operation. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions can improve your chances, and demonstrating a willingness to learn and safety awareness is important in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Trainee, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety procedures, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-standard equipment like excavators, loaders, and simulators, as well as OSHA safety certifications, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help trainees excel in this role. These competencies ensure safe equipment operation, reduce workplace accidents, and support smooth project workflow as you advance in the field.

What is a heavy equipment trainee?

Heavy Equipment Trainees are individuals who are learning to operate large machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and loaders, typically used in construction, mining, or industrial settings. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to gain practical skills and safety knowledge needed for the job. Training often involves both classroom instruction and hands-on practice to ensure trainees can handle various equipment safely and efficiently. Successful trainees may go on to become certified heavy equipment operators.
More about Heavy Equipment Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Equipment Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Equipment Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment jobs? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment jobs are:
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Heavy Equipment Trainee jobs near you

Heavy Equipment Mechanic - Rotational

North Slope Borough

Barrow, AK • On-site

$45.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Summary or Purpose All Borough employees who occupy positions where federal law mandates testing shall comply with the requirements of the federal regulations and will be subject to pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion return to duty and follow-up testing. [*This position becomes subject to federally mandated testing upon obtaining a CDL]. Service, Diagnose and Repair light, medium and heavy-duty equipment, Perform Minor and Major repairs to include over hauling engines, drive trains, hydraulic systems and electrical systems.

This position may supervise apprentice workers engaged in vehicle and equipment repair work. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification. Shown are duties intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities.

Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties. Daily inspections, fueling, check fluid levels, lighting, tires and startup and safety inspections of equipment. Schedule and Perform routine preventive maintenance.

Perform minor and major repairs to include all aspects of repairs, electrical, drive train, suspension, engine, heating, hydraulic to equipment. Troubleshoot and diagnose drivability problems and repair on equipment. Operate a variety of diagnostic tools and electrical, air and hand tools.

Welding and fabricate as needed. Perform minor body work on equipment. Maintain records, work orders, purchase request, quotes, timesheets, daily and monthly reports.

Attend safety meetings and training sessions as required. Travel to and work within North Slope Borough villages. May be required to work non-traditional work schedule to include evenings, holidays and weekends.

May be subject to 24 hour on call status. Operate vehicles and equipment to diagnose and ensure operating efficiency. Clean and maintain equipment, tools and the general work area.

Support responsibility for safe work practices in all projects, activities and operations. Consistently build knowledge and expertise about current job; Perform other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of North Slope Borough organization, operations, policies and procedures; Knowledge and understanding of basic shop safety, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS); While performing the duties of this job, the employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds; Must be able to walk, lift, reach, stoop, stand, grasp, balance, climb, kneel and crouch; Must be able to work in various inside and outside environments being subjected to weather changes, noise vibrations, job hazards and atmospheric conditions; Ability to understand safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals; Skill in operation of diagnostic equipment, troubleshooting and repair of equipment.

Education, Experience, Certifications and Licenses Required High school graduate or G.E.D or a combination of 12 years of education and related work experience; Five years of work experience as Heavy Equipment Mechanic or completion of the NSB Heavy Equipment Trainee Career Ladder; Ability to otain a valid State of Alaska driver's license within six months of hire, that meets North Slope Borough insurance criteria; Ability to obtain a valid Commercial Driver's License within 1 year of hire that meets North Slope Borough insurance criteria. THE NORTH SLOPE BOROUGH IS AN ALCOHOL AND DRUG FREE WORKPLACE. This Job Description reflects North Slope Borough's best effort to describe the essential functions and qualifications of the job described

It is not an exhaustive statement of all the duties, responsibilities or qualifications of the job. This document is not intended to exclude an opportunity for modifications consistent with providing reasonable accommodation. This is not intended to be a contract.

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