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Heavy Equipment Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Veit

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end ...

Veitusa

Backhoe Operator (Earthwork)

Rochester, MN

The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment JobsHeavy Equipment Jobs in Rochester, MN

Heavy Equipment information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$19

$34

$44

How much do heavy equipment jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment in Rochester, MN is $34.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.53 and $37.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

Is heavy equipment a good career?

Heavy equipment operators work with large machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, often in construction, mining, or infrastructure projects. The career offers steady employment, opportunities for advancement, and typically requires certifications and physical stamina. It can be physically demanding and involves working in various weather conditions and environments.

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. Factors such as experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or regions can significantly increase earning potential.
More about Heavy Equipment jobs

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What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment jobs in Rochester, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Heavy Equipment jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Heavy Equipment job openings:

Heavy Equipment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,632 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Centuri Construction Group

Rochester, MN • On-site

$38.19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more.

  • Load and unload equipment and materials.

  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections and perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment.

Job description

Pay Range: $38.19/Hr.

Centuri companies consider several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education, training and skills, and geographic location.

Who We Are

Connecting People to Possibility
As a publicly traded company (NYSE: CTRI) with $3 billion in revenue, Centuri leads the way in utility and energy infrastructure across North America. What sets us apart is our local agility, resources to scale, and comprehensive solutions for a dynamic energy market.

Whether in the field or providing essential behind the scenes support, Centuri offers professional growth opportunities where you can thrive and make a difference. Join a culture where safety, sustainability, and teamwork come first, with training and benefits that truly care for your well-being.

As an experienced Equipment Operator, after paid training, you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a seasoned Foreman, you will join a crew to get the job done right. We believe in the power of teamwork, and all crew members are expected to assist with general labor as needed.

What You'll Do
  • Safely operate heavy equipment such as: skid steers, backhoe, trencher, paver, dozer, milling saw, road grater, hydro-excavator, track hoe and more
  • Load and unload equipment and materials
  • Maintain daily pre-shift vehicle and equipment inspections
  • Perform regular maintenance and cleaning on assigned vehicles and equipment
  • Maintain all industry-required Operator Qualifications
  • Perform other tasks as requested by leadership 
What You'll Have
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • 1+ year experience safely operating equipment in close proximity to workers and underground utilities
What You'll Get
  • Join the Largest Natural Gas Distribution Contractor in the United States
  • Weekly Payroll
  • Paid, on-the-job training: natural gas distribution, utility excavation, safety 
  • Employee Assistance program benefit
  • Health Insurance Plan benefit
  • Retirement Plan benefit
Work Environment
  • Work sites are outdoors in potentially extreme weather conditions
  • All worksite safety instructions are written and spoken in English; must be fluent in English
  • Work includes prolonged and repeated: lifting (including overhead, up to 50lbs); standing; climbing; kneeling; reaching and feeling; crouching and crawling
  • Work is performed within the "red zone" of heavy equipment
  • Working safely requires quick/accurate hand-eye coordination and the ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
Legal Stuff
  • Pass pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion drug screens
  • Provide valid US work authorization documents for E-Verify
  • Satisfactory results of pre-employment background check results
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record
  • Pre-employment medical fit-for-duty test; hold/obtain DOT medical card
  • Join and maintain Union membership
Our Commitment to Opportunity

This job description is subject to change at any time. It reflects management's assignment of essential functions, and does not exclude or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Centuri and its subsidiary companies will provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, gender, genetic information, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.  Centuri will provide reasonable accommodations to allow an applicant to participate in the hiring process (e.g., accommodations for a test or job interview) if so requested.

Centuri is a Department of Transportation regulated employer. Certain safety-sensitive positions are covered under the DOT Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations, 49 CFR Part 40. It is important to note that marijuana remains a drug listed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. It remains unacceptable for any safety-sensitive employee subject to drug testing under the company's Drug Free Workplace Policy to use or test positive for marijuana.

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