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

C.W. Matthews

Front End Loader Operator

Macon, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The primary responsibility of the Loader Operator is to operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, front-end loaders, and other machinery to move, load, and handle materials ...

C.W. Matthews

Front End Loader Operator

Macon, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The primary responsibility of the Loader Operator is to operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, front-end loaders, and other machinery to move, load, and handle materials ...

C.W. Matthews

Front End Loader Operator

Macon, GA · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

The primary responsibility of the Loader Operator is to operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators, front-end loaders, and other machinery to move, load, and handle materials ...

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

Heavy Machine Operator information

See Macon, GA salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do heavy machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machine operator in Macon, GA is $22.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $25.82 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 Macon, GA are hiring for Heavy Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Macon, GA with the most Heavy Machine Operator job openings:

Heavy Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machine Operator job openings in Macon, GA 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 $47,310 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Machine Operator - Multiple Levels Based on Experience

Dart Container

Thomaston, GA

$21.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Dart Container rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 121 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

HIRING! A Place to Build Your Future! 

$21.45+/hr depending on experience + $2/hr shift premium for overnights

If you are looking for a new Machine Operator opportunity with a leading company, Dart Container is looking for you to join our team! Our Lithonia, GA facility is hiring!  

Within this role you will be responsible for safely operating the production machinery to run efficiently while maintaining our high standard of quality.

Shift Availability:

  • 8pm- 8am 

Core Skills and Qualifications:

The ideal candidate must possess all of the following: 

  • Two (2) years of experience operating manufacturing and process control equipment or equivalent technical school or apprentice experience
  • Previous plant production software experience required; SAP experience preferred
  • Math skills to include simple addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
  • Familiar with and ability to convert decimals to fractions or vice versa
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot problems including knowledge of machines and tools, their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance
  • Ability to observe, follow, understand, and evaluate processes demonstrated and other workplace procedures
  • Demonstration of minimum proficiency with the English language in order to ensure effective new hire training and on-going communications about safety and quality issues

Preferred Skills and Qualifications: 

  • Previous powered industrial truck experience
  • Paper converting, chemical/plastics processing and/or packaging industrial experience 

Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years.  We’re a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we’re proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.

Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug-free workplace.  Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.

If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.

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