... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Nashville, TN · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Jacksonville, FL · On-site
... response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance ... The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely. * Must be willing to ...
Heavy Fire Equipment Operator information
See salary details
$14.18 - $15.95
2% of jobs
$15.95 - $17.72
9% of jobs
$17.72 - $19.49
13% of jobs
$19.66 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$19.49 - $21.26
14% of jobs
$21.26 - $23.03
12% of jobs
The median wage is $23.09 / hr.
$23.03 - $24.80
16% of jobs
$26.35 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$24.80 - $26.57
11% of jobs
$26.57 - $28.34
10% of jobs
$28.34 - $30.11
8% of jobs
$30.11 - $31.88
4% of jobs
$31.88 - $33.65
2% of jobs
$14
$23
$33
How much do heavy fire equipment operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy fire equipment 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Fire Equipment Operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Heavy Fire Equipment Operator, you need expertise in operating and maintaining heavy machinery, a high school diploma or GED, and typically a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with GPS, two-way radios, and specialized fire suppression equipment is often required, along with completion of safety and wildfire management training. Strong situational awareness, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring both safety and effectiveness when responding to wildland fires and protecting life and property.
What is the difference between Heavy Fire Equipment Operator vs Fire Apparatus Operator?
| Aspect | Heavy Fire Equipment Operator | Fire Apparatus Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Firefighter certification, heavy equipment operation licenses | Firefighter certification, vehicle operation licenses |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, industrial facilities, emergency response scenes involving heavy machinery | Fire trucks, emergency response vehicles at fire scenes |
| Employer & Industry | Fire departments, industrial plants, construction companies | Municipal fire departments, emergency services |
Heavy Fire Equipment Operators primarily handle heavy machinery used in firefighting and industrial settings, focusing on operating large equipment like bulldozers and cranes. Fire Apparatus Operators, on the other hand, operate fire trucks and emergency vehicles during fire responses. Both roles require firefighting certifications and vehicle operation licenses, but their work environments and equipment differ significantly.
What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Fire Equipment Operators during wildfire suppression operations?
Heavy Fire Equipment Operators often work in high-risk, rapidly changing environments where visibility and terrain can be unpredictable. Navigating heavy machinery in dense forests, steep slopes, or near active fire lines requires quick decision-making and constant communication with ground crews. Operators must also be prepared for long shifts and the physical demands of working under intense conditions, all while ensuring their own safety and that of their team. Building strong teamwork skills and maintaining situational awareness are crucial for success in this role.
What are heavy fire equipment operators?
Heavy fire equipment operators are skilled professionals who operate and maintain large machinery such as bulldozers, graders, and water tenders during wildfire suppression and prevention efforts. They play a critical role in creating firebreaks, clearing vegetation, constructing access routes, and supporting firefighting crews in hazardous environments. These operators must be trained to handle both the equipment and the challenging conditions present during wildfires, ensuring safety and effectiveness in their operations.
More about Heavy Fire Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Fire Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Fire Equipment Operator job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Fire Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Fire Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Fire Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Fire Equipment Operator jobs are:
- Prevailing Wage Heavy Equipment Operator
- Fifo Heavy Equipment Operator
- Kbr Heavy Equipment Operator
- Excavator Owner Operator
- International Heavy Equipment Operator
- Backhoe Owner Operator
- Building Equipment Operator
- Heavy Equipment Operator 2
- Fema Heavy Equipment Operator
- Full Time International Heavy Equipment Operator
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Posted 16 days ago
MasTec rating
7.4
Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
36th of 78 rated construction
Job description
Overview
Responsibilities
Qualifications
MasTec Civil is currently hiring for experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our team in Nashville, TN.
A MasTec Civil Equipment Operator is a non-FSLA exempt, skilled craft position that performs on heavy construction projects within any combination of the duties described more fully below. An Operator typically performs a wide variety of tasks, transferring from one task to another as the workflow dictates.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to operate heavy construction equipment commonly utilized in the heavy highway industry such as but not limited to backhoes, excavators, bulldozers and loaders, and perform each position responsibly, satisfactorily and be physically fit to perform these duties pursuant to the Safety Sensitive Position requirements within the acknowledged work environment. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to operate all or a specific piece of equipment depending on the context.
Company Overview
Founded in 1987, MasTec Civil (formerly known as Condotte America), a MasTec Company, is a heavy highway contractor specializing in the construction of complex transportation projects that include roadway, bridges, interchanges, mass transit, and tolling facilities. In short, we build the roads and bridges connecting our families, communities, and nation. In doing so, client satisfaction is of primary importance to us, and our record reflects our emphasis on understanding our client needs in order to exceed their expectations.
MasTec’s Clean Energy & Infrastructure (CE&I) segment generates over $4 billion in annual revenue, providing construction services across industrial, renewables and infrastructure sectors. Our industrial expertise includes building products manufacturers, decarbonization, power generation facilities, manufacturing plants and mining. In infrastructure, we specialize in general heavy civil construction, underground utilities, structures, electrical work, material production, roadways, bridges, specialty pavement overlays, environmental projects and commercial buildings. Our renewables sector focuses on solar, wind and battery storage. Sustainability and safety are foundational to our culture and influence everything we do.
MasTec, a minority-owned Fortune 500 company, has shaped the construction industry for more than 90 years. With over 35,000 employees and 400 offices nationwide, we provide flexibility and career growth in dynamic work environments.
Responsibilities
Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in handling, pre-start inspections, post-start inspections, maneuvering skills, shut down and securing procedures.
Must be able to work various shifts in a team environment. Team activities include responsibility and accountability for the day-to-day function of the team as well as with senior management who are involved running the project.
Must perform daily safety and operational inspection of the equipment. Inspections will be performed per documented checklist, determine if any parts are malfunctioning, report any deficiencies, and perform minor repairs to the equipment as needed. Must properly communicate to the Supervisor and Fleet Department any damages or mechanical breakdowns.
Must ensure that regular maintenance of the assigned equipment is being scheduled and performed as required by the equipment operations and maintenance manual.
Must possess a thorough understanding of the equipment operation characteristics, controls, capacity limitations, emergency skills, response to fire, power line contact, tipping, malfunction characteristics and performance questions about the specific types of equipment in use.
The Operator will be responsible for all safety aspects of operating the equipment.
The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.
Must be willing to assist in other duties as required while not operating the equipment.
The Operator Position is a Safety Sensitive Position, subject to the requirements of this safety designation.
The Operator position requires the ability to lift and carry, on a frequent basis, at least 50-80 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance. Loading different materials into the bucket by hand if needed.
Is expected from the operator to have experience placing and removing TBW construction concrete barriers as needed; in an efficient and productive manner; loading and unloading from and into a truck.
The Operator position always requires the ability to communicate effectively.
The Operator position requires the Situation Awareness and constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
Must be able to maintain a level grade while spreading and balancing material or while recovering spoil material or loading from a stockpile of materials.
Must understand the industry terms and language for graded stakes as applicable to a graded stake by surveyor. Must be able to load trucks up to but not limited to 20 trucks at the time assigned to a stockpile loading as needed.
Must be experienced in the changing of the different attachments pertaining to the equipment including but not limited to forks and boom to lifts materials or hydraulic hammer for demolition activities.
- Must have a knowledge of the maximum capacities of the equipment.
- It is desired that the operator has at least knowledge of electronics grade laser.
- Must understand terms like cut and fills while excavating according to survey stakes.
- Must be aware of all utility location surrounding the work area prior to commence work.
- Must request a log or visible location of utility prior to start any excavation.
- Must request and lead a ground man, if necessary, to assist in location of utilities, and grade checking
- Must ensure that all employees assisting or working near or around the equipment remain outside of the maximum reach of the maximum reach of any part or extension of the equipment.
- Must stop the machine an apply secure pins before abandon equipment.
- Must be able to load trucks as needed.
- Must have the safety awareness to maintain the equipment shut down and key removed in occasions where the equipment is being washed or maintenance is being performed on it.
Qualifications
Construction related experience (roads, highways, bridges, etc.), 5 - 9+ years experience for Excavator or Bulldozer.
Have required documentation evidencing competency or certifications as required by the industry standards and/or governmental agencies.
Completion of High School or secondary education is preferred
What's in it for You
Financial Wellbeing
- Competitive pay with ongoing performance review and merit increase
- 401(k) with company match & Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
- Flexible spending account (Healthcare & Dependent care)
Health & Wellness
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (plan choice) - coverage for spouse, domestic partner, and children
- Diabetes Management, Telehealth Coverage, Prescription Drug Plan, Pet Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
Planning for the Unexpected
- Short and long-term disability, life insurance, and accidental death & dismemberment
- Voluntary life insurance, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity coverage
- Emergency Travel Assistance Program
- Group legal plan
Position may be subject to pre-employment screening, which may include background check and drug testing. Accessibility: If you need accommodation as part of the employment process, contact ceicareers@mastec.com. Due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to respond to individual requests regarding application status. Please log into your candidate profile for up-to-date information.
MasTec, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
Disclaimer: MasTec and our Subsidiaries will never ask prospective employees for any form of payment or money transfer as part of job application or onboarding. We do not ask prospective employees for information about credit cards or personal passwords, and it does not require applicants to purchase equipment or software. Ensure that all recruiter email addresses end in @mastec.com or @talent.icims.com. If you suspect you are the target of a scam, we advise you to contact your local law enforcement agency and report fraud at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure and our subsidiaries do not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies without a valid signed agreement and partnership with the Corporate Talent Acquisition Team.
Qualifications:Construction related experience (roads, highways, bridges, etc.), 5 - 9+ years experience for Excavator or Bulldozer.
Have required documentation evidencing competency or certifications as required by the industry standards and/or governmental agencies.
Completion of High School or secondary education is preferred
What's in it for You
Financial Wellbeing
- Competitive pay with ongoing performance review and merit increase
- 401(k) with company match & Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
- Flexible spending account (Healthcare & Dependent care)
Health & Wellness
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance (plan choice) - coverage for spouse, domestic partner, and children
- Diabetes Management, Telehealth Coverage, Prescription Drug Plan, Pet Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
Planning for the Unexpected
- Short and long-term disability, life insurance, and accidental death & dismemberment
- Voluntary life insurance, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity coverage
- Emergency Travel Assistance Program
- Group legal plan
Position may be subject to pre-employment screening, which may include background check and drug testing. Accessibility: If you need accommodation as part of the employment process, contact ceicareers@mastec.com. Due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to respond to individual requests regarding application status. Please log into your candidate profile for up-to-date information.
MasTec, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Company's policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status, or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasTec's policy to comply with all applicable state, federal and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
Disclaimer: MasTec and our Subsidiaries will never ask prospective employees for any form of payment or money transfer as part of job application or onboarding. We do not ask prospective employees for information about credit cards or personal passwords, and it does not require applicants to purchase equipment or software. Ensure that all recruiter email addresses end in @mastec.com or @talent.icims.com. If you suspect you are the target of a scam, we advise you to contact your local law enforcement agency and report fraud at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.
MasTec Clean Energy & Infrastructure and our subsidiaries do not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies without a valid signed agreement and partnership with the Corporate Talent Acquisition Team.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME