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Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Stella-Jones

Machine Operator 2

Alexandria, LA · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Operates heavy equipment. Principal Responsibilities: * Operates three machines proficiently ... Operating certificate for equipment (independent or through company) Knowledge, Skills and ...

Amcor plc

Machine Operator

West Monroe, LA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

ROLE OVERVIEW The Operator has overall responsibility for their respective machine and its numbers, including but not limited to uptime/downtime, product scrap, output, and efficiency through ...

Amcor

Machine Operator

West Monroe, LA

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

ROLE OVERVIEW The Operator has overall responsibility for their respective machine and its numbers, including but not limited to uptime/downtime, product scrap, output, and efficiency through ...

Savard Labor

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently operate the following types of heavy machinery: Bulldozers, Excavators, Skid Steers, Front-end loaders, Backhoes, Tractors ...

Savard Labor

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently operate the following types of heavy machinery: Bulldozers, Excavators, Skid Steers, Front-end loaders, Backhoes, Tractors ...

Coca-Cola Bottling UNITED

Machine Operator

Harahan, LA

$41K/yr

For qualified candidates we offer an amazing CDL Tuition Program reimbursable up to $5250 for CDL school tuition - ask your Recruiter for details The Machine Operator I is responsible for producing ...

New

Pratt Industries

Paper Machine Operator

Shreveport, LA · On-site

$85K/yr

The Paper Machine Operator is a multi-skilled position responsible for all activities associated with the production and operation of the paper machine equipment. This consists of: proactively ...

Savard Group

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently operate the following types of heavy machinery:Bulldozers Excavators Skid Steers Front-end loaders Backhoes Tractors ...

Savard Personnel Group

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently operate the following types of heavy machinery: Bulldozers Excavators Skid Steers Front-end loaders Backhoes Tractors ...

Savard Group

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently operate the following types of heavy machinery:Bulldozers Excavators Skid Steers Front-end loaders Backhoes Tractors ...

Savard Group

Heavy Operator

Kenner, LA · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The primary role of a Heavy Equipment Operator is to safely and efficiently operate the following types of heavy machinery:Bulldozers Excavators Skid Steers Front-end loaders Backhoes Tractors ...

Triton Construction, LLC

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lafayette, LA · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery with a focus on excavators and bulldozers. This role requires skilled operation to support construction ...

New

IMSCO

Fitting Machine Operator

Geismar, LA · On-site

Salary: $15-$25 Job Summary Industrial Municipal Supply Co. (IMSCO) is hiring a Fitting Machine Operator to support our Manufacturing and Fabrication teams in Geismar, Louisiana. This hands-on role ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsHeavy Machine Operator JobsHeavy Machine Operator Jobs in Louisiana

Heavy Machine Operator information

See Louisiana salary details

$12

$20

$28

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Louisiana is $20.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Heavy Machine Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavy Machine OperatorCrane Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), certification in heavy equipment operationCrane operator certification, often through NCCCO or state programs
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial plants
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation across various industriesSpecialized in lifting and moving heavy loads with cranes

Both roles require certification and involve working in construction or industrial environments. Heavy Machine Operators typically handle a variety of equipment like bulldozers and loaders, while Crane Operators focus specifically on operating cranes for lifting heavy materials. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy machine operators on construction sites?

Heavy Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating tight or uneven spaces, and coordinating safely with ground crews and other equipment. Adhering to strict safety protocols while maintaining productivity is crucial, as is communicating effectively with team members to avoid hazards. Operators must also stay up-to-date with maintenance needs and troubleshooting minor equipment issues to minimize downtime.

What is a heavy machine operator?

Heavy Machine Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery and equipment used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries. Their responsibilities include handling equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders to move earth, materials, or heavy objects. They must follow safety protocols, perform routine maintenance checks, and sometimes assist in minor repairs. Heavy Machine Operators play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of construction and industrial projects.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of construction site safety, equipment handling, and machinery operation, usually supported by a high school diploma and relevant operator certifications. Proficiency in operating heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, as well as familiarity with GPS and grading systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and precise operation of machinery, which is crucial for successful project completion and workplace safety.
What cities in Louisiana are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Louisiana with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Machine Operator jobs in LA? For Heavy Machine Operator jobs in LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Heavy Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,183 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Machine Operator - 1st Shift-Westwego,Louisiana

Metals USA

Westwego, LA • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Metals USA rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd of 415 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Machine Operator - 1st Shift
Metals USA has an immediate opening for a Machine Operator in the Waggaman, LA location. The Machine Operator performs advanced production activities requiring a demonstrated high level of skill and proficiency in material handling, production processes and multiple machine operation acquired through extended experience and training.
Starts at $21/hour plus shift differential
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Positions work pieces for welding
  • Experience using an automated system preferred
  • Determines processing specifications such as materials, cutting tools, location of cutting lines, dimensions, tolerances, and operational sequences by reviewing blueprints, work orders, tooling instructions or other written specifications
  • Performs quality control inspections on finished product; for ISO-certified locations, performs In Process Quality Inspections
  • Coordinates and executes material handling of all inventories to be processed including operation of overhead crane
  • May train less experienced workers and perform as lead in absence of group leader
  • May restock material
  • Completes work order paperwork/documentation
  • Performs other related duties as assigned or requested

Metals USA offers a competitive starting salary and benefits plus upward mobility professional growth.
Metals USA provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees w/o regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.
Metals USA is committed to protecting our employees by creating and maintaining a workplace free of substance abuse.
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Minimum 18 years of age
  • Minimum of one year welding experience
  • Must pass a welding test
  • Reading and writing comprehension in English (to read work order instructions, safety, CAD blueprints, and policy manuals)
  • Measuring skills to read English & Metric systems and a tape measure, caliper, gauges, or micrometer or ability to learn additional measuring mechanisms
  • Must have mechanical aptitude and arithmetic skills to calculate and convert decimals and fractions
  • Experience operating an overhead crane / forklift operator
  • Must be proficient in the use of hand tools including grinder
  • Demonstrated manual dexterity, finger dexterity, arm-hand steadiness, and multi-limb coordination
  • Computer Literacy; Microsoft Products, CAD Programming and ERP
  • Must be organized with attention to detail
  • Candidate must pass a pre-employment drug screening.

Physical Requirements:
In a typical workday, employee is standing, walking, seeing, hearing, grasping, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, talking, lifting work pieces weighing up to forty (40) lbs. manually or by crane to work area and properly positioning it for processing the orders.
Working Conditions:
Employee will work in an open warehouse the majority (98%) of the time and will be exposed to some or all of the following working conditions: extreme heat and cold, noise, vibration, oils and atmospheric conditions such as dust, fumes and metallic particles. Employee will be exposed to the hazards of working with heavy machinery. Employee is required to wear a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves and safety boots. The Company furnishes initial hard hat, gloves and safety glasses. The employee furnishes safety boots at own expense.

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