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Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Sonoco

Machine Operator III Staves

Hartselle, AL · On-site

$23.83/hr

Machine Operator III - Staves Department Location: Hartselle, AL Pay Rate: $23.83/ HR + .75 Shift Diff Shift: 2nd Shift (2-10p) with some OT From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar ...

Griffin Associates

Machine Operators

Cullman, AL

$25.50/hr

Machine Operators ID: 1502 Location: Cullman, AL More about this job > Description Machine Operators *Choose Shift *NO Rotating 1st Shift M-F 7AM to 4PM 2nd Shift M-F 4PM to 12AM 3rd Week Starts

Benchmark

Machine Operator II

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... operators • Collect data from Data Analyzer and use it for process efficiency ratios • Complete and submit a machine fallout report • If responsible for feeder repair for SMT, repair bad ...

GRIFFIN Recruiters

Fire Products Machine Operator

Cullman, AL · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Machine Operators JOB LOCATION: Cullman *20 Minutes form Arab 2nd OR 3rd *NO Rotating 8 Hour Shifts WITH Paid Lunch CALL for Details: 2566408181 8am to 4pm Full Time JOB **Will Train * Full Time Job ...

Griffin Associates

Plastic Machine OPERATORS

Joppa, AL

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GRIFFIN Recruiters Job Openings >> Plastic Machine OPERATORS Plastic Machine OPERATORS Summary Title: Plastic Machine OPERATORS ID: 1308 Location: Joppa, AL More about this job > Description Machine ...

Griffin Associates

LITE MACHINE Operators

Arab, AL

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

LITE MACHINE Operators ID: 1368 Location: Arab, AL More about this job > Description LITE *Machine Operators * CALL To Interview 256-640-8181 (M-F 8am to 5pm) * START THIS WEEK! ** TOUR to Choose ...

Griffin Associates

Machine Operators IV

Arab, AL

$25.50/hr

Machine Operators IV ID: 1504 Location: Arab, AL More about this job > Description Machine Operators *Choose Shift *NO Rotating 1st Shift M-F 7AM to 4PM 2nd Shift M-F 4PM to 12AM 3rd Week Starts

GRIFFIN Recruiters

PMO Plastics Machine Operator

Cullman, AL · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Machine Operators Needed 1st 2nd 3rd Shifts Opportunity for Growth CALL TO INTERVIEW 2564017077 * First Raise in 90 Days * 8 Hour Shift with Paid Lunch * Shifts: 1st OR 2nd OR 3rd * No Sundays

Griffin Associates

Medical Machine Operators

Arab, AL

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Medical Machine Operators ID: 1397 Location: Arab, AL More about this job > Description Medical Machine Operators * Several RAISES Throughout the Year! * AIR CONDITION & HEATED Facility * *INTERVIEWS ...

GRIFFIN Recruiters

Machine Operators V

Arab, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Arab Machine Operator JOBS Will Train **Call TODAY M-F 8am to 5pm 256-640-8181 NO Rotating *Choose 1st OR 2nd OR 3rd Requires: High School Diploma OR GED Requires: Background Check Document Work ...

GRIFFIN Recruiters

PMO Plastics Machine Operator

Arab, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Machine Operators Needed 1st 2nd 3rd Shifts Opportunity for Growth CALL TO INTERVIEW 2564017077 * First Raise in 90 Days * 8 Hour Shift with Paid Lunch * Comute Location: 20 Miles from Arab * Shifts ...

Griffin Associates

Plastics MACHINE OPERATORS

Arab, AL

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

GRIFFIN Recruiters Job Openings >> Plastics MACHINE OPERATORS Plastics MACHINE OPERATORS Summary Title: Plastics MACHINE OPERATORS ID: 1305 Location: Arab, AL More about this job > Description ...

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All JobsHeavy Machine Operator JobsHeavy Machine Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Heavy Machine Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Decatur, AL is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What machine operator pays the most?

Heavy machine operators working with specialized equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in construction, mining, or oil and gas industries tend to have higher salaries. Factors like experience, certifications, and geographic location also influence pay rates, with unionized roles often offering higher wages. Overall, operators of complex or high-demand machinery typically earn the most among machine operators.

What is the highest paid heavy machine operator?

The highest paid heavy machine operators typically work in specialized industries such as oil and gas, mining, or large-scale construction projects, earning annual salaries that can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 with experience and certifications. Factors like location, type of equipment operated, and level of expertise influence earning potential, and operators with advanced skills in operating complex machinery or holding certifications tend to earn higher wages.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Heavy machine operators can earn around $2000 per day in high-demand industries such as construction, mining, or oil and gas extraction, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and overtime. These roles often require experience, safety training, and operating heavy equipment like cranes, bulldozers, or excavators in challenging environments.

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 are Heavy Machine Operators?

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.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:
Heavy Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,244 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Machine Operator III Staves

Machine Operator III Staves

Sonoco

Hartselle, AL • On-site

$23.83/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Sonoco rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

51st of 110 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position: Machine Operator III - Staves Department
Location: Hartselle, AL
Pay Rate: $23.83/ HR + .75 Shift Diff
Shift: 2nd Shift (2-10p) with some OT

From a small family business to a multi-billion dollar global company, Sonoco has been changing the face of products and packaging since 1899 - all while keeping the heart of "People Build Businesses" alive. Our talented people are at the core of our growth, constantly reinventing the Sonoco wheel with brilliant solutions every year. Today we are a world leader in global packaging solutions with diversified operations in over 34 countries. We're extremely proud of our portfolio of brands, our achievements in sustainability and industrialization and the groundbreaking work accomplished by our people.

While reporting to the Team Lead as the Machine Operator III, this role performs complete setup and operation of industrial equipment in a Wood Reel manufacturing plant. A Machine Operator III is responsible for either operating and setting up 1 piece of equipment, a small grouping of equipment, or supporting a Production Technician to efficiently operate a larger piece of equipment that consists of several processes. The equipment being operated involves cutting, machining, and assembling lumber to produce components to manufacture Wood Reels used to package wire and cable. Common types of equipment used consist of some variation of Industrial saws, routers, nailers, spindles, scanners, stackers, and conveying equipment.

Responsibilities

  • Be able to set up and operate multiple pieces of equipment in a one-piece flow process
  • Be able to troubleshoot assigned machines and processes
  • Perform Operator Maintenance functions and support
  • Preventive Maintenance tasks
  • Capable of assessing the manufacturing schedule to minimize waste and maximize throughput
  • Able to develop and execute a plan that achieves production goals Has the ability to work per safety and quality standards
  • Handles administrative duties promptly, to include accurate/up-to-date documentation
  • Demonstrates good time management skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with all functions within the plant (safety, quality, maintenance & management)
  • Responsible for general housekeeping (5S) of work area and department
  • Being reliable, committed, and quality focused is a must.

Requirements

  • Minimum 1-year of machine operating and setup experience in an industrial environment.
  • Must have fundamental technical knowledge of electronic sensors, pneumatics, HMI, mathematics, and optimization of cycle time
  • Extensive knowledge of personal hand tools and use them safely to set up, adjust, and maintain production equipment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, work well independently, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Working knowledge of our products and their quality requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as needed.
  • You are reliable, have good initiative, are committed, and are quality focused.

At Sonoco Products Company, we offer a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive pay and benefits. *Benefits listed below are for employees located in the U.S. Specific benefits and wellbeing programs may vary depending on your location (within the U.S. or global), or if you are a union employee.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, including FSA and HSA options
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Wellbeing tools and resources to support holistic health, including an Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services
  • Paid time off and holidays to recreate, rejuvenate and care for the health of yourself and family
  • Variety of company paid and voluntary employee-paid insurance plans including life, personal accident, and disability insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we strictly prohibit and do not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants or any other covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.

What Sonoco employees say

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About Sonoco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sonoco is a $5 billion global provider of consumer packaging, industrial products and packaging supply chain services. When collaborating with our customers, we leverage our deep knowledge of material science, our i6 Innovation ProcessTM, and our industry-leading packaging and services portfolio to create impactful customized solutions that build stronger brands. We produce packaging for many of the world's most recognized brands, in markets such as appliances and electronics, automotive, beverages, confection, construction, converted paperboard, fresh and natural food, frozen and refrigerated food, shaving, home, lawn and garden, medical/pharmaceutical, pet care, powdered beverages, recycling and snacks. Sonoco's operations consist of our global consumer packaging businesses (rigid paper and closures, flexibles and plastics); our display and packaging division (high-impact retail displays and packaging supply chain management); our industrial businesses (tubes and cores, reels and spools, uncoated recycled paperboard and Sonoco Recycling, one of the world's largest recyclers); and our Protective Solutions division (custom-designed protective, temperature-assurance and retail security packaging solutions and highly engineered components). From our headquarters in Hartsville, S.C., and more than 300 operations in 33 countries, we serve customers in 85 nations.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Hartsville, SC, US

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