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Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Boyd Excavating

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 ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dirt

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Dirt Operator is expected to operate equipment with a high degree of precision, particularly in ... You must be able to climb on and off heavy machinery (graders, rollers, loaders) multiple times a ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dirt

Fort Collins, CO

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Dirt Operator is expected to operate equipment with a high degree of precision, particularly in ... You must be able to climb on and off heavy machinery (graders, rollers, loaders) multiple times a ...

Martin Marietta

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dirt

Fort Collins, CO

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Dirt Operator is expected to operate equipment with a high degree of precision, particularly in ... You must be able to climb on and off heavy machinery (graders, rollers, loaders) multiple times a ...

Dietzler Construction Corp.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Golden, CO · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The heavy equipment operator will perform a wide range of physical labor tasks in support of ... Proficient in excavator machinery and a variety of other heavy machinery in general earthwork ...

Gould Construction

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Operator

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

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:

Apex Underground

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 ...

westmoreland

Heavy Equip Operator - Craig, CO

Craig, CO · On-site

$40.49 - $43.51/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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)

Schofield Excavation

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Heavy Equipment Fleet Mechanic

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Schofield Excavation

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Heavy Equipment Fleet Mechanic

Grand Junction, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Schofield Excavation

Be Seen First

Heavy Equipment Fleet Mechanic

Glenwood Springs, CO · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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All JobsHeavy Machinery Operator JobsHeavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Colorado

Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$24

$35

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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.

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 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Colorado?

For Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Heavy Machinery Operator job openings:

Heavy Machinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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

Boyd Excavating

Greeley, CO • On-site

$25 - $38/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

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 to move earth, prepare job sites, and support project goals. If you’re experienced, safety-focused, and take pride in precision work, we’d love to hear from you.

This is a full-time position, 40+ hours per week.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate excavators, landscape tractors, backhoes, skid steers, and loaders with precision
  • Read job site plans and follow grade stakes
  • Perform routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance
  • Work closely with surveyors, foremen, and crew members to meet project specs
  • Ensure safe operation in all conditions and adhere to OSHA and site safety rules
  • Keep work areas clean, organized, and hazard-free

Qualifications:

  • A minimum of 3 years of experience operating heavy machinery in construction or a related field
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Able to pass a drug screen
  • Physical stamina, the ability to lift over 70 lbs, and to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Strong hand-eye coordination and attention to safety

Company Description

We have been in business for over 27 years, providing excavation services for our commercial construction customers all along the Frontrange area (Denver to Fort Collins).