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Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

NCW

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Data Center Heavy Equipment Operator

New Carlisle, IN · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Underground Civil (Data Center Projects) The Underground Heavy Equipment Operator utilizes heavy machinery to perform civil site prep, deep trenching, structural ...

Tycol Excavating

Heavy Equipment Operator

Elkhart, IN · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

This role involves operating various types of heavy machinery to support excavation, grading, and site development projects. We are looking for individuals who take pride in their work, prioritize ...

NCW

Heavy Equipment Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Operates heavy machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. May be responsible for routine maintenance or repairs. May ...

DISHER

Key Production Operator

Westfield, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Key Production Operator - Westfield, Indiana DISHER is currently partnering with a U.S.-based ... Will be required to operate heavy machinery on occasion. We may use artificial intelligence (AI ...

DISHER

Key Production Operator

Westfield, IN

$16 - $19.50/hr

Key Production Operator - Westfield, Indiana DISHER is currently partnering with a U.S.-based ... Will be required to operate heavy machinery on occasion. We may use artificial intelligence (AI ...

DISHER

Key Production Operator

Westfield, IN

$16 - $19.50/hr

Key Production Operator - Westfield, Indiana DISHER is currently partnering with a U.S.-based ... Will be required to operate heavy machinery on occasion. We may use artificial intelligence (AI ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Markleville, IN · On-site

$48K - $49K/yr

Comfort with heavy lifting and physically demanding work. * Experience in operating machinery in a manufacturing or industrial facility. * Ability to work 2nd or 3rd shift and be available for ...

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Experience operating heavy machinery. * Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset. * Good spoken and written English is required. * Good computer skills and able to learn new programs ...

reliance

Machine Operator

Plainfield, IN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Job Summary Machine Operator Department: Plant Reports To: Manager Plant Operations / Assistant ... heavy equipment. • Ability to read and comprehend work instructions and blueprints. • Basic ...

RB Global Inc.

Loader Operator I

Crothersville, IN · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Qualifications Experience operating heavy machinery. Able to operate a large 36,000 lbs forklift is an asset. Good spoken and written English is required. Good computer skills and able to learn new ...

Aerotek

Heavy Equipment Operator

Lebanon, IN

Heavy Equipment Operator (Mid-Level) Join a civil construction team as a mid-level Heavy Equipment ... keep machines in safe working condition. * Adhere to professional appearance and behavior ...

Kelly Services

Machine Operator

Columbus, IN · On-site

$19.50/hr

Kelly Services has immediate openings to join the Cummins HDM (Heavy Duty Machining) team in downtown Columbus, IN . We have several Machine Operator opportunities available on 2nd shift. Shift & Pay ...

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All JobsHeavy Machinery Operator JobsHeavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Indiana

Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Indiana is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I operate heavy equipment without a CDL?

Heavy machinery operators typically need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) if they are required to drive large trucks or transport equipment on public roads. However, for operating stationary or non-transporting heavy equipment on job sites, a CDL is usually not required, but specific certifications or training may be necessary depending on the equipment and employer requirements.

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 the coming years.

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 is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy equipment operators typically work in specialized industries such as oil and gas, mining, or large-scale construction projects, often earning six-figure salaries. Factors like experience, certifications, and operating advanced or specialized machinery can significantly increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Machinery Operator, and why are they important?

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 are some common challenges Heavy Machinery Operators face on the job, 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 are Heavy Machinery Operators?

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 are popular job titles related to Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Indiana? For Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Heavy Machinery Operator job openings:
Heavy Machinery Operator jobs near you
Data Center Heavy Equipment Operator

Data Center Heavy Equipment Operator

NCW

New Carlisle, IN • On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator – Underground Civil (Data Center Projects)


The Underground Heavy Equipment Operator utilizes heavy machinery to perform civil site prep, deep trenching, structural backfilling, and grading specifically for underground utility installation. This role directly supports the line and utility infrastructure teams to install underground conduits, high-voltage cabling, communication lines, pull boxes, and transformer pads.


Job Type: Full-time

Hourly Rate: $30-$32, $100 per diem on days worked

Expected Hours: 58 a week, five 10s and one 8


Key Responsibilities

  • Precision Operation: Operate excavators, track hoes, backhoes, trenchers, bulldozers, and front-end loaders safely across active, multi-phase job sites.
  • Utility Excavation: Dig micro-trenches and deep utility corridors for electrical grids and fiber networks within tight tolerances (often within a tenth of a foot).
  • Live Utility Navigation: Carefully locate, manually expose, and excavate around existing live underground and overhead utilities without causing service disruptions.
  • Civil Infrastructure Installation: Assist in placing underground conduits, cables, vaults, utility pull boxes, and structural foundations for switchgear and transformers.
  • Backfilling & Compaction: Backfill excavated zones and operate compaction equipment to meet strict structural density specifications required for data center loads.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Perform mandatory daily pre-shift safety inspections, check fluid levels, grease components, and document mechanical issues.
  • Site Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to 811 locate tickets, OSHA regulations, trench shoring/benching rules, and the client's high-standard safety protocols.


Required Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Minimum 3–5 years of heavy equipment operation specifically focused on civil site work, deep utility trenching, or commercial infrastructure. Data center site experience is highly preferred.
  • Technical Reading: Ability to interpret civil site layouts, utility blueprints, and digital grade stakes/GPS guidance systems precisely.
  • Safety Certifications: OSHA 10-Hour Construction certification required (OSHA 30 preferred). Trench shoring and confined space certifications are major assets.
  • Licensing: Valid Driver’s License required; a Class A CDL is highly advantageous for equipment transport and dump truck operations.
  • Coordination: Strong hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and the ability to seamlessly follow hand signals from spotters and ground crews.


Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

  • Must be able to pass a background check and professional drug screening.
  • Ability to lift up to 50–80 lbs multiple times per shift and perform manual labor when not operating machinery.
  • Comfortable working extended hours (10–12 hour shifts) outdoors in variable weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, or mud.
  • Capability to safely climb into heavy machinery and navigate uneven terrain or tight spaces on foot.


Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & Short-Term Disability
  • Paid Holidays (when applicable)
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Personal Advancement
  • Retirement & 401K


NCW logo

About NCW

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 2000 with a mission to do things differently, NCW is a team of staffing and professional recruitment specialists that deliver innovative solutions to hiring challenges. Here, our focus is on the people behind every role. We form long-standing partnerships with our clients and with the top talent in the market. We go beyond job requirements and resumes to learn the “whys” and the motivations of the companies and talent we serve. Committed to service excellence, our professional recruiters and temporary staffing specialists deliver an unmatched experience and unsurpassed results with every search. Matching the right person to the role requires an exceptional understanding of the market. The recruiters of NCW bring decades of staffing and recruiting expertise to the table. We understand the challenges employers face, and we know what talented people want from their next opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2000

Social media

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