1

Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

General Laborer - Grader Operator (Steel Mill) This position focuses on safely operating a grader ... Drive and maneuver heavy equipment, including graders and related machinery, safely across uneven ...

Operator Telecom Drill Bores

Athens, AL ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Operator, you'll be responsible for operating drill equipment to install underground ... and heavy machinery, squeeze, fine hand motion, bend, stoop, stand, walk, climb stairs and lift ...

SLITTER OPERATOR-1st

Trinity, AL ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

The operator assumes leadership of the slitter crew, supervising processing, conducting in-process ... Exposure to moving machinery, heavy equipment, and sharp objects. * Work areas may be subject to ...

Machinist I

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Our Decatur, AL facility is currently seeking to a 1st shift ... Monitors work to ensure that machine is operating properly * Works from drawings and written ...

Machinist I - Entry Level

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Heavy Industries. Our Decatur, AL facility is currently seeking to a 3rd shift mid-level Machinist ... Monitors work to ensure that machine is operating properly * Works from drawings and written ...

Machinist III - Sr Level

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating at the highest level. Come join the 7,000 employees worldwide working at Primetals ... Heavy Industries. Our Decatur, AL facility is currently seeking to fill a 1st shift Machinist III ...

Press Operator

Decatur, AL

$13.50 - $17.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... heavy maintenance and changeovers. ยท Support the replacement of hydraulic cylinders, pumps, air ... Previous experience with industrial print equipment and/or machine setup/operation is preferred.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Decatur, AL is $19.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.12 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 job categories do people searching Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,539 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Quarry Heavy Equipment Operator

Smyrna Ready Mix, LLC

Laceys Spring, AL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator to join our quarry operations team. The ideal candidate will have proven experience operating heavy equipment in fast-paced, high-volume environments, with a strong commitment to maintaining safety and quality standards. This role is critical in supporting our operational goals by ensuring efficient excavation processes while upholding our core values of safety, productivity, and excellence.


  • Operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, front-end loaders, excavators, and other quarry machinery or anything else that is asked of you in a safe and effective manner to minimize the risk of injury, property damage, or loss of life.
  • Perform daily safety and maintenance checks on equipment, ensuring all machinery is in perfect working order.
  • Coordinate with the site management team to plan, execute, and monitor the movement of materials within the quarry, ensuring all operations align with safety standards and project specifications.
  • Adjust equipment settings and operational controls as necessary to meet project requirements.
  • Identify and communicate the need for maintenance, repair, or replacement of equipment, minimizing downtime and maintaining productivity.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment, promptly reporting any safety incidents or hazards.
  • Participate in ongoing training and adhere to all safety policies and procedures.
  • Work closely with the team to ensure materials are moved efficiently and projects are completed on time.

  • Proven experience as a Heavy Equipment Operator, preferably within a quarry or similar industrial setting.
  • Valid certification in operating heavy machinery.
  • Knowledge of production processes, quality control, and other techniques for maximizing the effective distribution of goods.
  • In-depth understanding of industry safety standards and regulations.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform minor repairs on equipment. - Excellent coordination and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
  • High level of physical fitness and strength.
  • Willingness to undergo SRMโ€™s pre-employment screenings.

SRM Concrete (Smyrna Ready Mix) is a family-owned, values-driven leader in the ready mix concrete industry. Founded in 1999 with a single plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, weโ€™ve grown to over 600 locations nationwide by focusing on quality, integrity, and service. Our mission is to serve our customers, our communities, and our team members with excellenceโ€”every load, every day.

Why Join SRM Concrete?
  • Growth & Advancement: Be part of a rapidly expanding company that believes in promoting from within. We offer real opportunities for you to build a long-term career and advance your skills, no matter where you start.
  • Competitive Compensation: Earn industry-leading pay, with overtime opportunities, annual raises, and eligibility for bonuses. Our steady workload ensures reliable income for our team members.
  • Exceptional Benefits: Take advantage of low-cost medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance. We also offer paid holidays, PTO/vacation, a 401k with a $100 weekly match, family days, and more!
  • Consistent, Reliable Work: At SRM Concrete, you can count on steady hours and dependable work. We value team members who are dedicated and ready to go the extra mile.
  • Team Culture: At SRM Concrete, we value hard work, respect, and teamwork. We support each other, recognize a job well done, and believe in doing whatโ€™s rightโ€”on the job and in the community. Youโ€™ll find a straightforward, dependable environment where every team member matters.
At SRM Concrete, youโ€™re more than just an employeeโ€”youโ€™re a valued team member helping to build Americaโ€™s future. If youโ€™re ready to say โ€œYESโ€ to new opportunities and deliver service that sets the standard in our industry, apply today and join the SRM family!