You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
You'll operate powerful heavy machinery--bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes--to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in ...
Heavy Machinery Operator information
See Wisconsin salary details
$14.32 - $16.10
2% of jobs
$16.10 - $17.89
9% of jobs
$17.89 - $19.68
13% of jobs
$19.85 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$19.68 - $21.46
14% of jobs
$21.46 - $23.25
12% of jobs
The median wage is $23.31 / hr.
$23.25 - $25.04
16% of jobs
$26.60 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$25.04 - $26.82
11% of jobs
$26.82 - $28.61
10% of jobs
$28.61 - $30.40
8% of jobs
$30.40 - $32.18
4% of jobs
$32.18 - $33.97
2% of jobs
$14
$23
$33
How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Wisconsin is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $27.16 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?
| Aspect | Heavy Machinery Operator | Equipment Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Commercial driver's license (CDL), certifications for specific machinery | Basic operator certifications, sometimes CDL |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, mining, heavy industry | Construction, landscaping, industrial sites |
| Industry Usage | Heavy construction, mining, infrastructure projects | General 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 Wisconsin?
For Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
- Landfill Operator
- Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator
- Temporary Concrete Block Machine Operator
- Non Union Marine Forklift Operator
- Per Diem Bakery Machine Operator
- Heavy Equipment Operator Mining
- Internship Heavy Equipment Operator
- Telecommute Digger Derrick Operator
- Evol Operator
- Locum Paper Bag Machine Operator
What job categories do people searching Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for?
The top searched job categories for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs?
Cities in Wisconsin with the most Heavy Machinery Operator job openings:
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.
United States Army rating
6.3
Based on 495 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
44th of 49 rated military and defense
Job description
Horizontal Construction Engineer Now Hiring Full and Part Time Positions Job Overview: You’ll be at the forefront of building essential infrastructure at home and abroad. You’ll operate powerful heavy machinery—bulldozers, excavators, graders, and cranes—to clear and grade land, construct roads and airfields, and prepare sites for vital projects. Your expertise in equipment operation, terrain assessment, and precision grading will ensure every project meets high safety and engineering standards. Your skills will directly impact your team’s success and long-term infrastructure development. Requirements: Attend a 19-week paid training program to gain skills and certifications in construction equipment operations, construction equipment maintenance, equipment repair, planning, physical fitness, and vehicle operations. Advanced certifications available with additional fully funded training programs. Benefits: Comprehensive Healthcare, Vision, and Dental plans. 30 days paid vacation. 90 days paid paternity and maternity paid time off. Comprehensive wellness programs including fitness facility access, nutrition consulting, curated fitness plans, and more. Housing, clothing, and relocation allowance. Tuition assistance. Student loan repayment. Flexible retirement and pension plans. Pay and Promotion: Entry pay and promotions vary based on education level and qualifications. Hiring bonus opportunities available. Specialty bonuses available depending on qualifications and position. Guaranteed promotion opportunities. Additional Career Opportunities: Upon successful completion of first term contract, you are guaranteed up to 5 interviews with industry leading organizations. Similar Career Fields Include: Vehicle Operations, Maintenance and Repairs, Engines and Machinery About Our Organization: The U.S. Army offers a wealth of possibilities for today’s youth – whether you are looking to build a rewarding career, continue your education, or get hands-on training, the Army is committed to helping you build the future you are looking for and improve yourself in the process. Be All You Can Be. Click apply for an Interview614ebcce-2988-4a21-9a10-1fc0c5beffbb
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About US Army
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Industry
National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Arlington, VA, US