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Heavy Equipment Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment CDL Driver

Rochester, MN ยท On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Heavy Equipment CDL Driver At EquipmentShare, we're not just filling a role - we're assembling the best team on the planet to build something ...

Heavy Equipment CDL Driver

Rochester, MN ยท On-site

$22 - $34/hr

Build the Future with Us - EquipmentShare is Hiring a Heavy Equipment CDL Driver At EquipmentShare, we're not just filling a role - we're assembling the best team on the planet to build something ...

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety ...

Equipment Operator

Kasson, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety ...

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety ...

Equipment Operator

Kasson, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety ...

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety ...

Diesel Mechanic / Technician

Rochester, MN ยท On-site

$25.50 - $33.50/hr

Coursework in diesel or heavy equipment repair may substitute with equivalent work experience. Experience: * 2-3 years of diesel equipment repair experience required. * Prior dealership or heavy ...

Diesel Mechanic / Technician

Rochester, MN ยท On-site

$25.50 - $33.50/hr

Coursework in diesel or heavy equipment repair may substitute with equivalent work experience. Experience: * 2-3 years of diesel equipment repair experience required. * Prior dealership or heavy ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Heavy Equipment jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

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.

Residential Operator - DeCook Excavating

DeCook Excavating

Byron, MN โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

DeCook Excavating is looking to add an experienced operator to our residential crew!


We focus on residential excavating for new and existing homes. You will typically work in crews of 2-4 people and will cover the SE area of Minnesota but you'll be home each night. Our shop is located in Byron, MN.


Typical hours for this position are 7am-5pm and will continue to work throughout the winter as weather allows.


Responsibilities:

  • Operate heavy equipment such as an excavator, dozer, skid loader on residential work sites
  • Perform basement digs, backfills, dig plumbing trenches, septic drain fields, sewer and water
  • Prepare work site for driveways/parking lots, complete rough and final grades
  • Follow company and OSHA safety procedures, reporting incidents immediately, and identifying & eliminating hazards as much as possible
  • Perform routine inspection on equipment at the beginning of each use
  • Keep job sites tidy and clean
  • Follow orders from Foreman and Project Managers


What we are looking for:

  • 5+ years of experience operating heavy equipment
  • Prior experience digging basements a plus
  • Must have valid Class A CDL to haul equipment to the jobsite
  • Reliable individual who reports to work on time and ready to work each day
  • Good customer service
  • Works and communicates well with others and demonstrates positive leadership
  • Must be 18 years of age


Physical Demands:

  • Climbing in/out of equipment
  • Loading equipment on/off trailers
  • Lift/Carry/Push/Pull (80 - 100 lbs)
  • Working in all weather conditions


Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • PTO / Paid Holidays
  • 401k Retirement Plan with Company Match
  • Home every night


https://www.decookexcavating.com/