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Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Franklin, LA (NOW HIRING)

Pipe Welder

New Iberia, LA · On-site

$20.25 - $24.75/hr

Experience operating overhead cranes, hand tools, and other fabrication equipment. * Ability to ... heavy materials, and industrial machinery while following all required safety procedures. Benefits ...

Structural Welder

New Iberia, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Experience operating overhead cranes, rigging equipment, and fabrication tools. * Ability to pass a ... heavy materials, and industrial machinery while following all required safety procedures. Benefits ...

Structural Fitter

New Iberia, LA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Experience operating overhead cranes, hand tools, and fabrication equipment. * Ability to perform ... heavy materials, fabrication equipment, and industrial machinery while following all required ...

Structural Fitter

New Iberia, LA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Experience operating overhead cranes, hand tools, and fabrication equipment. * Ability to perform ... heavy materials, fabrication equipment, and industrial machinery while following all required ...

Showing results 21-38

Heavy Machine Operator information

See Franklin, LA salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Franklin, LA is $19.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.73 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 Franklin, LA are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Franklin, LA with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Franklin, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,853 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Installation Technician

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Morgan City, LA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Oceaneering rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

365th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The Installation Technician coordinates with foreign nationals, including mentoring personnel assigned to the back-deck operations.

Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer: 
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
As one of the largest providers of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Oceaneering offers cost-effective, innovative solutions to solve our customers' most complex challenges. With 99% uptime, our vehicles offer tough, reliable service for the full asset life cycle anywhere in the world - from development through to decommissioning. With a focus on secure remote operations, we can assure any operation, including rig moves, subsea monitoring, inspection, and more. With our next generation of subsea vehicles, such as the Liberty E-ROV and Freedom AUV, we push the boundaries of autonomy and remote work capabilities, using machine learning for better decision making and asset maintenance. 

REQUIRED

  • 0-1+ years experience in rigging for ships and shipyards, manufacturing plants and construction projects or related experience. 
  • The ability to train and assist foreign nationals in all aspects of back deck operations

DESIRED

  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
  • Ability to obtain rigging and forklift certifications.
  • Valid Passport, MMC, and TWIC.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Other Characteristics

  • Knowledge of appropriate steps to analytical problem solving. 

  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships. 

  • Ability to work in a team environment, remaining attentive to ideas, recognizing responsibilities, and actively participating with others to accomplish assignments and achieve desired goals.

  • Treats others fairly and with respect.

  • Knowledge of department's policies, rules, regulations, business goals, vision, organizational structure, culture, philosophy, operating principles and values, etc.

  • Ability to establish and maintain project priorities.

  • Seeks out new learning experiences.

  • Identifies what needs to be done and takes action before being asked or required.

Working Conditions 

  • Outdoors and indoors, day and night, as well as over/near water. 
  • Requires working on or near moving equipment and vibrating equipment. 
  • Frequently the humidity is above 90%, noise is over 85 decibels and the light is intense/glare. 
  • Potential exposure to open fire/flames/sparks. 
  • Constant exposure to airborne dust, fumes, and gases. 
  • Work surface is stable, height is elevated.

Benefits Statement 

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.

  • Select cables, ropes, pulleys, winches, blocks, and sheaves according to weight and size of load to be moved.

  • Coordinate and direct the foreign workers and the movement of equipment to accomplish the task.

  • Set up and inspect equipment, performing repairs as needed.

  • Lube and maintain the drum and cables, making adjustments if needed.

  • Oversee the rigging to lift and move equipment/materials in worksite.

  • Set up and brace hoisting equipment using hand tools or power wrenches.

  • Use machinery to move construction materials, earth, petroleum products, or other heavy materials.

  • The ability to coordinate with Deck Foreman and Vessel Superintendents as well as Clients for all back-deck operations.


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