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Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Savard Group

Heavy Machine Operators

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Heavy Machine Operator $1,000+ WEEKLY Join SAVARD Personnel Group - where your skills are valued! We are looking for front end loader, dozer and excavator operators! Key Requirements: * Must have ...

The ProHunters

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dickson, TN · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating various heavy machinery to support construction and site development activities. This role requires a strong focus on safety compliance and ...

Wise Staffing Group

Machine Operator

Mascot, TN · On-site

$15/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Set up and operate machinery according to production specifications. * Monitor machine operations ... Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects. Benefits: * Competitive hourly ...

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All JobsHeavy Machinery Operator JobsHeavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Heavy Machinery Operator information

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How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Tennessee is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $24.42 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

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

Heavy Machinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in Tennessee 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 $44,772 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Loading and Heavy Machinery Operator

Terral River Service Inc

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description

Position Summary:

The Loading and Heavy Machinery Operator is responsible for the unloading of various aggregates and other materials from barge to truck. Must possess skills in organization, time management, communications, and safety awareness. This position reports to the Unloading Operations Manager.


Essential Job Functions:

  • Operates unloading and loading equipment and heavy machinery including material handlers, Skid Steer Loader, Front-End Loader, etc.
  • Routinely consults personnel on machine specifications and safety procedures for specific job tasks to ensure efficient and safe site operations.
  • Conducts routine inspections before operating equipment to identify needed maintenance or repairs.
  • Performs or requests necessary repairs and adjustments to equipment.
  • Communicates and reports on site activities when required.
  • Effectively completes unloading and related tasks.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Skills and Expertise Desired:

  • Working knowledge of operating heavy machinery.
  • Knowledge of unloading/loading procedures and techniques.
  • Ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively to subordinates.
  • Ability to complete safety awareness training and lead by example.
  • Excellent mechanical and problem-solving skills.
  • Extremely detail oriented and timely when completing reports.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Ability to oversee and coordinate a variety of people in different roles.
  • Ability to quickly identify problems and efficiently solve them.


Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • One to two years of related experience desired.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment background and drug screening.


Physical Requirements:

  • Able to complete physically demanding work.
  • Able to work in all types of weather as required.
  • Able to lift and carry heavy objects.
  • Good hand-eye-foot coordination and sense of balance.
  • Able to kneel, crouch, or crawl in awkward spaces to repair equipment.

Note: This job description provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Loading and Heavy Machinery Operator. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry standards.


About Terral RiverService, Inc: 

Terral RiverService (TRS) is a Family-owned business with a continually growing footprint of boats and barges throughout most of the inland waterway system of the US. We specialize in bulk storage, material handling, river, road and rail logistics along the Mississippi River system, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and the inland waterways of Louisiana and southern Arkansas. With our growing fleet of push boats, river barges, and modern dock operations strategically located throughout the Lower Mississippi River Valley, we are outfitted to transport, handle, and store virtually any commodity needed in the marketplace. TRS has over 550 employees and has operations in multiple states.

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