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Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Chattanooga, TN (NOW HIRING)

Mars, Incorporated

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift Mars Wrigley - TNN Site Chattanooga, TN Machine Operator 12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation) 8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm *Additional shift ...

Mars

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift Mars Wrigley - TNN Site Chattanooga, TN Machine Operator 12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation) 8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm *Additional shift ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Dunlap, TN

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator As a Machine Operator, you will set up, operate, and monitor equipment that transforms raw material into finished parts used across a variety of industries. You will work with ...

Loram

Machine Operator 1, TSO

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Machine Operator 1 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Department: Operations Reports to: Assistant Manager ... Heavy Maintenance/ Construction equipment maintenance. Basic administration computer skills.

Novolex

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Machine Operator I - Chattenooga, TN Compenasation: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour - paid weekly (Based on Experience) Available Shift: Nights - 6:00pm to 6:15am 2-2-3 Schedule Role and Responsibilites:

Coca-Cola Bottling UNITED

Machine Operator

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

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 ...

Novolex

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$17 - $20/hr

Machine Operator I - Chattenooga, TN Compenasation: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour - paid weekly (Based on Experience) Available Shift: Nights - 6:00pm to 6:15am 2-2-3 Schedule Role and Responsibilites:

Novolex

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Machine Operator I - Chattenooga, TN Compenasation: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour - paid weekly (Based on Experience) Available Shift: Nights - 6:00pm to 6:15am 2-2-3 Schedule Role and Responsibilites:

Novolex

Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$17 - $20/hr

Machine Operator I - Chattenooga, TN Compenasation: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour - paid weekly (Based on Experience) Available Shift: Nights - 6:00pm to 6:15am 2-2-3 Schedule Role and Responsibilites:

Mueller Water Products

Machine Operator I

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator I Mueller Company, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products and publicly traded company (NYSE: MWA) is the nation's leading manufacturer of flow control devices for the water and gas ...

Mueller Water Products

Machine Operator I

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator I Mueller Company, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products and publicly traded company (NYSE: MWA) is the nation's leading manufacturer of flow control devices for the water and gas ...

Mueller Water Products, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator I Mueller Company, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products and publicly traded company (NYSE: MWA) is the nation's leading manufacturer of flow control devices for the water and gas ...

Mueller Water Products, Inc.

Machine Operator I

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Machine Operator I Mueller Company, a subsidiary of Mueller Water Products and publicly traded company (NYSE: MWA) is the nation's leading manufacturer of flow control devices for the water and gas ...

Miller Industries

Machine Operator

Ooltewah, TN · On-site

$22.93/hr

Set up and operate saw fabricating machines. Other Duties may be assigned. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. • Ensure working environment is clean and safe • Verify ...

Baltimore Aircoil Company

Machine Operator

Dayton, TN

$20 - $21/hr

POSITION PURPOSE A shop hourly position with the primary responsibilities of operating two major ... Qualified in the operation of two major fabrication machines including but not limited to the Laser ...

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Heavy Machine Operator information

See Chattanooga, TN salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Chattanooga, TN is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Chattanooga, TN are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Chattanooga, TN with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:

Heavy Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Chattanooga, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,916 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Machine Operator

Mars, Incorporated

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:
Job Posting Title: Machine Operator- 12 Hour Night Shift
Mars Wrigley - TNN Site
Chattanooga, TN
Machine Operator
12 Hour Night Shift (following a 2-2-3 shift rotation)
8 hour 2nd Shift 3pm-11:30pm
*Additional shift rotation details will be provided in the interview process.*
Operators are system experts in their assigned area and are highly functional in multiple areas. Operators must ensure safety, production quality, efficiency, operational conformance, product and continuous improvement. Functions as a member of an area team which is directly responsible for the efficient production of quality products in the required quantities. Operate/change over specified machinery in the assigned area. Operators must have the skill set to train and/or perform the tasks of other Associates in the area as needed. This job requires Strong Action Orientation, Communication, Interpersonal and Team Building skills to support site objectives.
Functions include but are not limited to operation of equipment in assigned area, perform changeovers as needed, perform general housekeeping activities in area and area deep cleanings as required, maintain supplies for designated work area, properly complete all documented checks, and perform all cleaning/inspection/lubrication tasks (CIL'S). All tasks are to be performed while adhering to and encouraging the Five Principles of Mars.
Specialized Knowledge Required For Performance of Job:
Minimum requirements:
High School Diploma or GED
1+ year of manufacturing/machine operation experience
Basic math and PC skills
Basic digital technology skills (use of tablet, HMI touch screens, etc.)
Must be able to understand, read, write, and communicate in basic work-related English
Basic literacy skills including the preparation and completion of production and QA documents
High level of physical dexterity
Preferred requirements:
2+ years of manufacturing/machine operation experience
High speed machine operation experience
Certification in Material Handling Equipment
Experience in a lean manufacturing environment or equivalent
Essential Functions/Physical requirements:
- frequent lifting/carrying/pushing (1-50 lbs.)
- frequent handling/reaching of various products
- frequent fine finger movements
- frequent standing
What will be your key responsibilities?
  • Achieve the highest level of Safety, Quality and Efficiency standards throughout assigned department
  • Identify, escalate and address any deviation from standard or plan
  • Be responsible for the achievement of all Good Manufacturing Practice requirements
  • Ensure cleaning standards are upheld and fulfilled
  • Actively participate in operational processes that support continuous improvement of our business performance

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