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Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Heavy Equipment Mechanic | $1,750+ WEEKLY Join SAVARD Personnel Group - where your skills are ... Operating machines to diagnose and repair Caterpillar and Kobelco Equipment, which includes engines ...

R. Cassidy is a local heavy construction company that specializes in deep foundation drilling ... Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ...

R. Cassidy is a local heavy construction company that specializes in deep foundation drilling ... Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand ...

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Forgen Overview Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating ... Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust ...

Forgen Overview Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating ... Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust ...

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA

$16.75 - $23/hr

Forgen Overview Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating ... Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust ...

Forgen Overview Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating ... Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust ...

Excavation Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $23/hr

Forgen Overview Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating ... Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust ...

Forgen Overview Forgen is a leading geotechnical and specialty civil construction company operating ... Work conditions and demands may vary, with possible exposure to heavy machinery, chemicals, dust ...

Showing results 41-60

Heavy Machine Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $18.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $21.11 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 near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA 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 $38,701 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator III

Waste Management

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 642 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 90 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Job Summary
Operates a wide variety of heavy equipment vehicles that perform the spreading and compaction of construction demolition, soil remediation, commercial and residential waste disposed at the post collection facilities or particular job sites. 

Hours: 6:00am  - 4:30pm Mon - Thurs
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operates heavy equipment in compliance with the company operating safety policies and procedures.
  • Conducts routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance on equipment; maintains accurate records.
  • Moves and positions raw materials and finished components with use of material moving equipment.
  • Follow appropriate standard operating procedures as guideline for operating and maintaining vehicle.
  • May be part of a team that will be required to move from job site to job site on an as needed basis.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


Qualifications 
A. Required Qualifications 

  • Must be at least 18 years of age and
  • Legally eligible to work in the country where the position is located and
  • 3+ years experience operating heavy equipment and
  • Proficient in operating the minimum required equipment at an expert level based on site operations, which may include: Various Small Equipment (such as skid steers, tractors, water truck) Dozer Excavator Wheel Loader
  • Valid driver's license may be required Upon Hire
  • TWIC Card, or ability to obtain prior to starting
  • Pre-assignment and/or pre-hire customer-specific drug and/or alcohol testing may be required by certain customer-contract requirements. Such testing may include urinalysis, oral swab, drug hair follicle testing and/or alcohol testing.
    B. Preferred Qualifications Commercial drivers license with Air brake endorsement
    Physical Requirements
    Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
     
  • Climbing
  • Balancing
  • Sitting
  • Hearing
  • Repetitive Motions
  • Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination


Field: This job operates in both inside garage, shop or gas plant conditions as well as in outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat and humidity.
This role is designated as safety sensitive and will require the successful candidate to strictly comply with all safety rules and protocols. As part of the ongoing employment requirements, the successful candidate may be subject to drug and alcohol testing-including preemployment screening, postincident evaluations, reasonable suspicion checks, and random testing-in accordance with government regulations and company policies.
Benefits 
At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site. 

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click Apply.

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of postconsumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gastoelectricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavyduty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States:  WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada:  WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons or service federal property. Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID or TSAapproved alternative.

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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