1

Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$19 - $30/hr

Operators will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating a variety of heavy machinery to support roadway construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance projects. Equipment Operated ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Greeley, CO · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

We're looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to safely and efficiently operate machinery on construction, mining, or infrastructure sites. You'll use excavators, loaders, and other equipment ...

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Brighton, CO · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy machinery and commercial trucks, ensuring safety, efficiency, and precision on-site. Your expertise will help drive project ...

New

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate will have experience operating various types of heavy machinery, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to work collaboratively on construction sites. Key Responsibilities:

Mainline Operator

Arvada, CO · On-site

$25 - $43/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will operate various machinery to complete tasks such as digging, grading, backfilling, and material transport. Your precision and attention to detail will ...

Heavy Equip Operator - Craig, CO

Craig, CO · On-site

$40.49 - $43.51/hr

Operate heavy equipment and machinery as needed to clear, dig, grade, and handle earth, rocks, soil, sand, gravel, and other materials. * * Large Hydraulic Excavators (10 - 40 yd3 bucket)

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Fleet Mechanic

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a highly skilled and knowledgeable Heavy Equipment Fleet Mechanic to ... This role provides a fulfilling opportunity to keep essential machinery operating at peak ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$24

$35

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Colorado is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $28.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are heavy machinery operators in demand?

Heavy machinery operators are in demand due to ongoing construction, infrastructure projects, and industrial development. Employment opportunities often require certifications and experience with equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators, and job growth is expected to remain steady in many regions.

What is the difference between Heavy Machinery Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Machinery OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), certifications for specific machineryBasic operator certifications, sometimes CDL
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, heavy industryConstruction, landscaping, industrial sites
Industry UsageHeavy construction, mining, infrastructure projectsGeneral construction, material handling

Heavy Machinery Operators typically handle large equipment like bulldozers and excavators in heavy industry settings, requiring specialized certifications. Equipment Operators may work with smaller or different machinery in various construction or industrial environments. While overlapping in skills, Heavy Machinery Operators focus on large-scale equipment in demanding settings, whereas Equipment Operators often work with a broader range of machinery in less intensive roles.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a heavy machinery operator?

To thrive as a Heavy Machinery Operator, you need a solid understanding of operating various construction equipment, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with specialized training or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and GPS machine control systems is often required, along with OSHA safety certifications. Strong attention to detail, communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work efficiently and safely within team environments. These competencies are vital to ensure safe operation, prevent accidents, and maintain productivity on job sites.

What challenges do heavy machinery operators face, and how can they be managed?

Heavy Machinery Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing equipment malfunctions, and maintaining safety in dynamic construction environments. To address these issues, operators are encouraged to stay current with safety training, perform regular equipment inspections, and communicate proactively with site supervisors and team members. Building strong situational awareness and adhering to established safety protocols are essential for minimizing risks and ensuring smooth operations.

What is a heavy machinery operator?

Heavy Machinery Operators are skilled professionals who operate large equipment and machinery used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries. They are responsible for safely maneuvering equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, cranes, and loaders to move earth, materials, or perform other tasks. These operators must be trained to handle complex controls, follow safety protocols, and maintain their machinery. Their work is essential for the completion of large-scale infrastructure and development projects.
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Heavy Machinery Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 47% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,871 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

ARS Companies

Denver, CO • On-site

$19 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

Position Overview

We are seeking experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join our road construction crews working on projects across the State of Colorado. Operators will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating a variety of heavy machinery to support roadway construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance projects.

Equipment Operated (including but not limited to):

  • Reclaimers

  • Water Trucks

  • Motor Graders

  • Compactors

  • Skid Steers

  • Mini Excavators

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment in a safe and productive manner

  • Perform daily equipment inspections and basic preventive maintenance

  • Maintain job site safety standards and comply with all company policies

  • Work collaboratively with crew members and onsite supervisors

  • Adapt to changing project needs and work locations throughout Colorado

Qualifications

  • Prior experience operating heavy equipment in road construction preferred

  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions

  • Strong attention to safety and detail

  • Reliable transportation to assigned job sites

  • CDL not required

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay (based on experience)

  • Consistent, full-time work

  • Team-oriented work environment

If you are a motivated equipment operator looking to work on road construction projects across Colorado, we encourage you to apply today.

Company Description

Sub-grade Stabilization; Structural Concrete Contractor