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Heavy Equipment Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

City of Albuquerque, NM

Lead Mechanic

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$56K - $58K/yr

Perform safety inspections on assigned automobiles and heavy equipment; identify safety hazards; make necessary repairs and adjustments to assure safe operation. * Ensure adherence to safe work ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment JobsHeavy Equipment Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Heavy Equipment information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$18

$31

$41

How much do heavy equipment jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment in Rio Rancho, NM is $31.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.27 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Which heavy equipment job pays the most?

Heavy equipment operators, especially those working with specialized machinery like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators, tend to earn the highest wages in the field. Certifications, experience, and working in high-demand industries or locations can significantly increase earning potential.

What is a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators are skilled professionals who operate machinery used in construction, mining, and other industries. They handle equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, loaders, and graders to move earth, lift materials, and perform various tasks on job sites. Operators must be trained to safely and efficiently manage these powerful machines, often working as part of a team to complete large-scale projects. They are also responsible for routine inspection and maintenance of their equipment to ensure safe operation.

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

AspectHeavy EquipmentHeavy Machinery Operator
CredentialsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferredOSHA safety training, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, industrialConstruction sites, industrial, infrastructure projects
Employer & IndustryConstruction, mining, agricultureConstruction, infrastructure, mining
Common Search/ComparisonTypes of equipment, specificationsOperator roles, certifications

Heavy Equipment refers to the machinery used in construction, mining, and industrial projects, including excavators, bulldozers, and cranes. Heavy Machinery Operator specifically describes the skilled worker who operates this equipment. While both roles require safety training and often similar certifications, Heavy Machinery Operators focus on the hands-on operation of the equipment in various work environments. Understanding the distinction helps job seekers target the right roles and certifications in the industry.

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

Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, maintaining strict safety protocols, and operating complex machinery in tight or hazardous spaces. These challenges can be addressed by staying up-to-date with safety certifications, participating in regular equipment maintenance checks, and communicating effectively with site supervisors and team members. Additionally, continuous on-the-job training and developing strong situational awareness can help operators navigate these challenges efficiently.

What are heavy equipment jobs?

Heavy equipment jobs are typically within the construction or industrial maintenance industries. The two main categories of heavy equipment jobs are heavy equipment operator and heavy equipment mechanic. As a heavy equipment operator, you are in charge of running large pieces of equipment to help build or maintain roads, bridges, large structures, and tunnels or pipelines. Your job duties may include operating bulldozers, front-end loaders, or backhoes responsibly during large projects. Heavy equipment mechanics, on the other hand, help to keep this equipment in working order for the operators by working on engines and other moving parts of the machinery.

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 hands-on experience with machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, along with a high school diploma or equivalent and often a specialized operator certification. Familiarity with GPS systems, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These abilities ensure the safe operation of expensive machinery, minimize risk, and help projects stay on schedule.
More about Heavy Equipment jobs
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Heavy Equipment jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Heavy Equipment jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Heavy Equipment job openings:
Heavy Equipment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,284 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Lead Mechanic

City of Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$56K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Salary : $56,388.80 - $58,531.20 Annually
Location : Albuquerque, NM
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2700016
Department: Solid Waste Management
Division: SW-Maint
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
Closing Date: 8/22/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
Bargaining Unit: BL
Position Summary
Lead, oversee and participate in the more complex and difficult work of staff responsible for maintaining, repairing, overhauling mechanical engines and equipment; train assigned employees in their areas of work including proper maintenance work and safety methods, procedures and techniques and perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility.
This is a safety sensitive position subject to random drug/alcohol testing.
Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
Essential and Supplemental Functions
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions may include but are not limited to the functions listed below. Must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.
  1. Lead, plan, train and review the work of staff responsible for maintaining, repairing and overhauling mechanical engines and equipment on automobiles and heavy equipment.
  2. Plan, direct, and participate in all aspects of mechanical maintenance and repair work including troubleshooting and repairing complex mechanical problems.
  3. Train assigned employees in their areas of work including proper maintenance work and safety methods, procedures and techniques.
  4. Supervise the use, care and operation of a variety of mechanical repair equipment including a machine lathe, grinders, voltage meters and welding equipment.
  5. Verify the work of assigned employees for accuracy, proper work methods, techniques, and compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
  6. Troubleshoot and repair a variety of electrical, engine, transmission and chassis problems on City automobiles and heavy equipment; assign or perform necessary repairs.
  7. Test and repair components and equipment including alternators, distributors, relays, lights, switches, air conditioning systems and fuel injection systems.
  8. Perform a variety of welding and fabrication duties; perform vehicle frame and body welding; ensure structural integrity of such equipment.
  9. Perform safety inspections on assigned automobiles and heavy equipment; identify safety hazards; make necessary repairs and adjustments to assure safe operation.
  10. Ensure adherence to safe work practices and procedures.
  11. Read and interpret blueprints and schematic wiring diagrams, hydrostatic systems and components.
  12. Estimate time, materials and equipment required for jobs assigned; requisition materials as required; distribute parts as necessary.
  13. Perform the duties of a service writer as required for assigned positions.
  14. May drive commercial class vehicles in the public right of way during delivery, pickup and road test.
  15. Deliver and pickup City automobiles and heavy equipment from outside repair vendors.
  16. Perform emergency road calls on disabled vehicles, diagnose operational problems and perform repairs as required.
SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:
  1. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.
  2. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements
Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.
High school diploma or GED; and
Two (2) years technical training in automotive maintenance and mechanical repair; and
Four (4) years experience in minor and major automotive maintenance and mechanical repair of a variety of vehicles and equipment.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid New Mexico Commercial Driver's License (Class A or B).
Possession of a valid City Operator's Permit (COP) within six (6) months from date of hire.
Possession of an AC recovery and brake repair certification within six (6) months from date of hire.
Required to work weekends/holidays/odd days off/shift work
Working Conditions
Environmental:
Shop environment; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases and heavy construction equipment.
Physical:
Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical condition necessary for moderate lifting and carrying, bending, stooping, kneeling, crawling and standing for prolonged periods; operating motorized equipment and vehicles.
Total Rewards. Total You.
The City of Albuquerque takes pride in offering our employees one of the most attractive Total Rewards packages in New Mexico. In addition to competitive salaries, the City provides benefit options for health, pharmacy, dental, vision, life, disability, and much more. The City also has pre-tax savings plans for healthcare, childcare, and parking. Employees participate in the state's public retirement system (PERA), with the City paying up to 75 percent of the employee's contribution. That's higher than any other contribution rate in the state of New Mexico!
Paid holidays? Check
Paid parental leave? Check
Paid birthdays off? Check
Vacation and sick leave starting Day 1? Check and check
Our people matter and we prioritize physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. With resources such as onsite and mobile medical clinics, an employee assistance program that encourages work-life balance, and tuition assistance and professional development pathways, the City is committed to equipping our employees with tools to better their lives and grow their careers while serving their community.
01
Do you possess a valid New Mexico Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A or B? (Attach copy of CDL)
  • Yes
  • No

02
Select the highest level of successfully completed related education as identified by the minimum requirements. (Attach supporting degree or transcripts)
  • No High School Diploma
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Non/degree accredited- Some College
  • Associates
  • Bachelors
  • Masters
  • Juris Doctorate
  • Doctorate

03
Select the number of years of work experience you possess which relates to the minimum requirements, if applicable, add verifiable time in a temporary upgrade status and/or volunteer experience when selecting number of years.
  • No experience
  • 1 to less than 6 months
  • 6 to less than 12 months
  • 1 year to less than 2 years
  • 2 years to less than 3 years
  • 3 years to less than 4 years
  • 4 years to less than 5 years
  • 5 years to less than 6 years
  • 6 years to less than 7 years
  • 7 years to less than 8 years
  • 8 years to less than 9 years
  • 9 years to less than 10 years
  • 10 years to less than 11 years
  • 11 years to less than 12 years
  • 12 years to less than 13 years
  • 13 or more years

04
Do you possess a valid AC Recovery certification?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you possess a valid Brake Repair certification?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Are you able to work weekends/ holidays / odd hours / shift work?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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