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Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Press Operator

New Miami, OH

$15.25 - $20/hr

A Press Line Operator reports directly to the shift Production Supervisor. Primary Job ... Must be comfortable with heavy machinery, intricate band saw, and hand tools * Be able to use hand ...

Press Operator

New Miami, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

A Press Line Operator reports directly to the shift Production Supervisor. Primary Job ... Must be comfortable with heavy machinery, intricate band saw, and hand tools * Be able to use hand ...

Equipment Operator/Laborer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Operate various heavy equipment and machinery to perform excavation. * Assist with site setup and preparation, including clearing debris, moving materials, and setting up barricades or other safety ...

Machine Operator

Strongsville, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

... of CNC machinery and measurement tools (caliper, micrometer etc.) 5. Excellent problem-solving ... Physical Requirements: 1. Ability to stand for long periods. 2. Ability to lift heavy materials, 15 ...

If you're an experienced heavy equipment operator who enjoys working with loaders and other heavy machinery and takes pride in safe, efficient, and productive operations, we'd love to hear from you.

New

... or heavy machinery preferred * Experience operating production machinery is a plus * Ability to ... read and understand blueprints, work instructions, and production specifications * Strong attention ...

New

... or heavy machinery preferred * Experience operating production machinery is a plus * Ability to ... read and understand blueprints, work instructions, and production specifications * Strong attention ...

New

Machine Operator

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

In addition, you will load and bag products, perform heavy lifting, operate forklift and pallet ... Job Requirements Qualified candidates must have experience operating machines, must have experience ...

Forklift certification or additional heavy equipment operation licenses. * Basic computer skills ... Operate and monitor production machinery to meet daily production goals. * Set up and adjust ...

Machine Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Set up and operate machinery per production orders and safety guidelines * Monitor equipment to ... Heavy Material Handling * CNC Machine Setup & Changeover * Troubleshooting CNC Machines

Showing results 21-40

Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Ohio salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Ohio is $22.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.58 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 cities in Ohio are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,897 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

$15.25 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Advanced Drainage Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 85 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Advanced Drainage Systems is a leading manufacturer of stormwater and onsite septic wastewater solutions, committed to sustainability and innovation. With a vast manufacturing and distribution network, we deliver high-quality products across multiple industries while recycling over half a billion pounds of plastic annually. At ADS, we foster a culture where diverse perspectives drive better ideas, ensuring every employee feels valued, heard, and empowered to make an impact.


Primary Purpose:

A Press Line Operator is responsible for performing and maintaining the daily activities associated with a production line. This includes housekeeping, safety, quality, maintaining production efficiencies, repair and maintenance and minimizing downtime. This position requires the flexibility to work 40+ hours per week, varying shifts, and weekends as required. A Press Line Operator reports directly to the shift Production Supervisor.

Primary Job Responsibilities: (This list may not include all the duties assigned)

  • Meet ADS and ASSHTO quality specifications for all products produced
  • Must be comfortable with heavy machinery, intricate band saw, and hand tools
  • Be able to use hand tools, and saws to scale product for proper fittings
  • Maintain ability to operate various production lines and processes effectively; earn certifications
  • Meet or exceed standard production efficiencies on all production lines
  • Completion of shift production and reporting paperwork
  • Maintain and build job skills through company training programs and understand and practice ADS Core Values
  • Physically Able to handle lifting 75lbs and heavy machinery
  • Practice proper PPE compliance and maintain a safe working record and environment
  • Immediately communicate unsafe conditions, or injuries to the Production Supervisor.
  • Assist with Preventative Maintenance program as required
  • Maintain facility housekeeping
  • Perform other duties as assigned

 Job skills:

  • Previous manufacturing machine operation, or extrusion experience preferred, not required
  • Mechanical troubleshooting and repair ability
  • Ability to operate hand tools
  • Ability to operate heavy machinery, i.e. band saws in a safe manner
  • Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication skills, reading and writing skills
  • High school diploma or equivalent required

Physical requirements:

  • Must be able left and move heavy items repeatedly up to 75 lbs and height of 6 ft.
  • This position requires full range of body motion on a daily basis including twisting, bending, reaching, squatting and ability to mount/dismount industrial equipment and vehicles.
  • This position is handling machinery and hand tools daily, which requires the ability to use hands, arms and legs to transport material and finished goods.
  • Must be able to bend, reach, kneel, stand and perform physical labor for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to perform work in extreme weather conditions and temperature extremes
  • Must be able to work various shifts and minimum of 12 continuous hours
  • Must pass Drug test, Background check.

Equipment / Tools:

  • Hand tools, band saws
  • Manufacturing tools

Benefits:

  • Full time hours available for 1st and 2nd shift, rotating 12 hours
  • Shift Differential
  • PTO/Sick time
  • Health, Dental, Life, Vision Insurance
  • Growth opportunity and career path

Health & Welfare Benefits: Medical and prescription drug plans, telemedicine (with medical plan), High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) and Health Savings Account (HSA), dental and vision plans, virtual physical therapy*, an employee assistance program (EAP)*, and voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnification programs.

 Financial Benefits: Retirement 401k program with company match, an employee stock purchase plan (voluntary), financial wellness planning*, paid parental leave*, flexible spending accounts (FSA) for child care and health care, short-term and long-term disability*, basic life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)*, adoption financial reimbursement*, tuition reimbursement*, voluntary life insurance (for employees, spouses, and children), and voluntary identity theft and fraud protection.

*100% paid by ADS.


Growth Opportunities & Global Presence: With a global network of approximately 70 manufacturing plants and 40 distribution centers, ADS offers extensive opportunities for career growth and development in various locations around the world.

Inclusive and Creative Work Culture: ADS fosters a culture of passion, innovation, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to shape industry-leading solutions. We value diverse perspectives, recognizing that they drive better ideas, processes, and performance. Our workplace is built on respect, inclusivity, and shared responsibility, ensuring every team member feels valued and contributes to our collective success.

Innovative & Sustainability Focused: Advanced Drainage Systems is one of the largest plastic recyclers in North America, ensuring over half a billion pounds of plastic is kept out of landfills every year.

Learn More: https://www.adspipe.com/about-us


ADS supports an inclusive workplace that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. We celebrate the power of our differences to create better solutions for our customers by ensuring employees can be their authentic selves each day. ADS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, creed, status with regard to public assistance, genetic status or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.


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