1

Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Sort Machine Operator L1

Lapeer, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Qualifying Machine Operator Reports to: Supervisor Department: Qualifying Classification: Hourly ... Noise - heavy machinery - if in plant. * Noise - vibratory bowls and air feed systems - if in plant.

Heavy Press Operator

Royal Oak, MI

$15.50 - $20/hr

While not required, prior experience in forging, metal forming processes, machine repair ... As a Heavy Press Operator trainee, you'll gain hands-on experience in various aspects of heavy ...

Be Seen First

Position Overview Heavy Equipment Operator with Underground Utility Experience The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy machinery to ...

Be Seen First

Position Overview Heavy Equipment Operator with Underground Utility Experience The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating excavators, loaders, dozers, and other heavy machinery to ...

... heavy machinery hearing protection required in production areaNote:The level of physical effort may vary from site to site and in some cases be greater or lesser than documented here.Company Provided ...

Work involves regular lifting of heavy materials and standing for extended periods while operating machinery and handling parts. Employees receive a $200 voucher for Red Wing work boots, and ...

CNC Machinist

Troy, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Produce machined parts by setting up, and operating a mill and/or computer numerical control (CNC ... the automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, defense, and energy industries. Our in-house ...

CNC Machinist

Troy, MI · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Produce machined parts by setting up, and operating a mill and/or computer numerical control (CNC ... the automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, defense, and energy industries. Our in-house ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$23 - $26/hr

At Beacon Recycling , our Heavy Equipment Operators are the people who keep material flowing ... This isn't a job where you'll sit in one machine doing the same thing all day. You'll move between ...

New

... heavy machinery hearing protection required in production areaNote:The level of physical effort may vary from site to site and in some cases be greater or lesser than documented here.Company Provided ...

What Does It Take to be a Machine Operator I at Dawn Foods? Below are the minimum qualifications to ... Working around heavy machinery - hearing protection required in production area Note: The level of ...

Job Purpose and Overview As a Machine Operator I you will work with raw material to complete a mix ... Working around heavy machinery - hearing protection required in production area Note: The level of ...

Showing results 21-40

Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Michigan is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.46 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 Michigan are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Heavy Machinery Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,995 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Service Technician (Heavy Equipment)

Vermeer Midwest-Marne

Marne, MI

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

About Us

You're not likely to find another company like Vermeer Midwest. Our people are from all walks of life, rolling up our sleeves and getting tough work done every day, together. We're a family-owned and operated company with an unmatched culture, one that is built on the belief that every Vermeer team member has real, personal impact - on our people, our customers and our world. Whoever you are and where you are in your career, Vermeer helps you be Equipped to Do More.

Salary $25-$35 hourly

Job Summary

The Service Technician inspects, maintains, and repairs heavy duty machinery such as directional drills, pipeline trenchers, brush chippers, stump cutters, horizontal grinders, excavators, aerial lifts, and other equipment. They make electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic system repairs to keep the heavy machinery operating safely. 

Essential Functions

  • Inspect equipment for proper performance.
  • Diagnose faults using computerized testing equipment.
  • Determine what parts and tools are necessary to make repairs.
  • Perform electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical repairs as well as preventative maintenance using hand and power tools.
  • Clean, lubricate and conduct routine preventative maintenance services.
  • Test equipment to ensure a successful repair.
  • Report damaged or faulty equipment to management.
  • Consult equipment operating manuals and schematics.
  • Complete service tickets using a computerized system in a timely manner.

 

Qualifications

  • Electrical & hydraulic diagnosis, troubleshooting, and repair skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills. 
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Excellent planning and organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong problem-solving skills.
  • A self-starter with good time management skills.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks.
  • Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
  • Understanding or computer testing technologies.
  • Computer literate.
  • A High School Diploma or GED is required.
  • A minimum of two to five years’ experience repairing heavy equipment or completion of a formal technical training program is preferred.
  • Experience working in the agricultural field is a plus.
  • Obtaining and/or maintaining a Class ‘A’ Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is preferred.

Benefits

  • Medical PPO Plans
  • Dental PPO Plans
  • 401(K)
  • Profit Sharing
  • Company provided life insurance
  • Company provided accidental death & dismemberment
  • Company provided long & short term disability
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off

 Vermeer Midwest provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.