ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Heavy Machine Operator Jobs in Hamilton, GA (NOW HIRING)

PBV

Machine Operator B

Salem, AL

$14 - $16.75/hr

PURPOSE OF THE JOB Operates and monitors high speed machinery while complying with production and safety standards. RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES Maintains all product flow. Ensures comprehensive product ...

ADVICS

Kitting Machine Operator 2nd shift

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Operate Vision/Inkjet Machine along with PWI 14. Operators are required to complete all check sheets required. 15. Operate PAD DETECTION Machine 16. Operate stripe machine as directed to include ...

Onin Staffing

Loader Operator

Fortson, GA

$19/hr

Operated heavy equipment in a rock quarry environment to support daily production operations. Responsible for safely operating machinery such as front-end loaders, excavators, haul trucks, and other ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHeavy Machine Operator JobsHeavy Machine Operator Jobs in Hamilton, GA

Heavy Machine Operator information

See Hamilton, GA salary details

$10

$17

$25

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Hamilton, GA is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What machine operator pays the most?

Heavy machine operators who specialize in high-demand equipment such as crane, bulldozer, or excavator operators tend to earn the highest wages. Experience, certifications, and working in industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas can also increase earning potential. Advanced skills and operating complex machinery typically lead to higher pay rates.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Heavy machine operators with specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications can sometimes earn $700 or more per day, especially in high-demand industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas. Such high daily rates are often associated with unionized roles, overtime, or working in remote or hazardous environments requiring advanced equipment operation. Compensation varies based on location, project complexity, and employer, but these roles typically require significant expertise and safety training.

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, earning salaries that can exceed $70,000 to $100,000 annually. Factors influencing pay include experience, certifications, equipment operated, and geographic location, with some operators earning bonuses or overtime pay for demanding schedules.

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.

How much do heavy machine operators make?

Heavy machine operators in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. Skilled operators with certifications in equipment like bulldozers or cranes may earn higher wages, especially with overtime or in specialized environments.
What cities near Hamilton, GA are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Hamilton, GA with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:
Heavy Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Hamilton, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,115 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Machine Operator (First and Second Shifts)

Machine Operator (First and Second Shifts)

Panasonic Energy Corporation of America

Columbus, GA • On-site

$17.03/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Proposed Salary Range: $17.03 per hour
Shift(s): First & Second

The production Machine Operator performs all duties and responsibilities involved with operating the production machinery according to Production schedules, while maintaining safety and quality. The production Operator is more involved with solving problems beyond minor repair and adjustments.

A machine operator should have the capability to read and interpret process information; and understand the impact their actions have on the quality objective.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Follows all company and departmental policies and procedures. Maintains active communication with management and other employees about all job-related concerns and informs the Supervisor and the Machine Keeper when where applicable when problems occur.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Operates the machines and completes continuing checks of the system:
    • Starts-up the machines.
    • Check’s materials being fed into the system for correct type and condition.
    • Feeds the materials and components to the machines as necessary.
  • Checks the controls, gauges, and sensors to make sure they are at the correct settings and in proper operation.
  • Continually watches and listens for any abnormality that may be a cause or sign of malfunctions, errors, or other problems.
  • Inspects the final machinery output for condition and quality.
  • Makes needed minor adjustments.
  • Follows the necessary procedures when a problem occurs:
    • Troubleshoots the problem by checking for jams, broken or displaced parts of the machinery, and errors in the operation of the machinery (controls not properly set, defective materials that were not caught in the earlier stages of the process, etc.).
    • Corrects minor problems with the machines by clearing jams, replacing certain parts, adjusting the guides, and/or resetting the controls.
    • Calls for the help of, explains the problems to, and closely assists the Machine Keeper in solving problems beyond minor repair.

    OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

    • Performs preventative maintenance procedures:
      • Cleans and lubricates the machinery.
      • Disassembles certain parts of the machinery in order to gain access to and clean internal components.
      • Repairs and/or replaces worn-out parts.
    • Make minor repairs and adjustments to the machinery and process.
    • Ensures that all safety shields and guards are in place during operation and maintains the use of specified safety procedures at all times.
    • Maintains complete and accurate records of all necessary production control data and information.
    • Pulls samples from each stage in the process for the QC audits and helps implement the recommended changes and adjustments.
    • Tests samples at each stage in the process to determine if specifications are being met, and analyze rejected material and batteries to determine the reasons for rejection:
      • Measures all specified dimensions (height, width, diameter, etc.).
      • Determines the weights of the output and/or components.
      • Runs strength and stress tests as appropriate, using testing equipment and machines.
      • Takes voltage and amperage readings.
    • Informs the Machine Keepers (where applicable), Supervisors, and the QE Department of the results of the checks and tests and ensures that any needed corrective actions are completed.
    • Records information about all problems, and the results from sample checks and tests, in the appropriate logbooks and production charts.

    OTHER DUTIES

    • Performs cleaning and organization of work area.
    • Relieves other operators when necessary.
    • Trains new employees.
    • Picks-up certain materials from storage and moves materials and rejects to specified areas.
    • Management procedures relevant to positions for which assigned.

    SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None

    EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
    High school diploma or general education degree (GED). At least one-year related work experience.

    LANGUAGE SKILLS
    Good communication skills. Basic English skills. Communicate effectively with the Machine Keeper and Supervisor about problems that cannot be resolved by the jobholder.

    MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
    Basic mathematical skills.

    REASONING ABILITY
    Ability to read, to understand, and follow instructions and operation manuals.

    OTHER SKILLS and ABILITIES

    • Basic mechanical aptitude.
    • Ability to use basic measuring and testing devices.
    • Basic knowledge of the operation of production machinery.
    • Ability to deal with repetitious work and recurring problems.
    • Ability to work effectively with different types of people and personalities.
    • Understand and follow company and departmental policies and procedures.
    • Operate and maintain specified pieces of machinery within the department.
    • Identify and follow the proper procedures for handling and using all materials and equipment needed to perform the job duties.
    • Recognize material and output defects.
    • Disassemble certain parts of the machinery, and clean and perform maintenance procedures on the machines.
    • Identify “problem areas” of the machinery and the process in order to notice and deter causes of future problems.
    • Make accurate judgments of what procedures to follow when problems occur; when to notify supervisor and other workers of problems, when to make decisions, and what decisions to make.
    • Notice abnormalities in the operation of the machinery, both visually and audibly.
    • Troubleshoot the machinery to determine the causes and solutions to problems.
    • Basic knowledge of EMS work instructions and Hazardous Waste Management procedures relevant to positions for which assigned.

    Training may include, but not limited to:

    • On-the-job training,
    • Department reviews and internal/external training.
    • Knowledge within operating parameters specified by permits and EMS work Instructions.

    EQUIPMENT AND TOOLS USED

    • Calculator
    • Tweezers
    • Cutting devices (scissors, box cutters, etc.)
    • Basic hand tools (screwdriver, wrenches, Allen keys, etc.)
    • Digital caliper
    • Balance scales
    • Measurement rules
    • Cleaning equipment (brooms, vacuums, cleaning agents, etc.)

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS
    Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, and the job conditions: The physical demands include standing throughout the day, exerting 10-30 pounds of force frequently and up to 60 pounds occasionally, and climbing a stepladder occasionally. Stress levels vary from low to moderate.

    WORK ENVIRONMENT
    The Production Machine Operator spends the work day in a climate-controlled area. The jobholder works on and around highly automated, high-speed machinery. Specified safety equipment and procedures must be used at all times.

    The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

    Hearing testing required if assigned to the following department:

    • Building #1:
      • Cathode
    • Building #2
      • Can Production
      • Packaging

    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
    Panasonic Energy Corporation of America is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

    All qualified individuals are required to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation. Pre-employment background check and drug testing is required. All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the United States. Competitive compensation and benefit package is provided.

    Applicants under the age of 18: No minor under 16 years of age shall be permitted to work during the hours when public or private schools are in session unless said minor has completed senior high school or has been excused from attendance in school by a county or independent school system board of education in accordance with the general policies and regulations promulgated by the State Board of Education.

    Due to the high volume of responses, we will only be able to respond to candidates of interest.

    BENEFITS

    • Employee Coverage: Monthly premiums $60.00/Deductible $300 per year
    • Family Coverage: Monthly premiums $150.00/Deductible $600 per year
    • 401k Retirement Saving - Company match up to 5%
    • 2nd/3rd Shift Differential $1.00

    Apply