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

Heavy Equipment Operator

Athens, AL ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Thorough understanding of safety protocols and ability to safely operate machinery * Superior skill ... Knowledge of heavy-equipment operating principles * Ability to operate equipment under varying ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Athens, AL ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Thorough understanding of safety protocols and ability to safely operate machinery * Superior skill ... Knowledge of heavy-equipment operating principles * Ability to operate equipment under varying ...

Thorough understanding of safety protocols and ability to safely operate machinery * Superior skill ... Knowledge of heavy-equipment operating principles * Ability to operate equipment under varying ...

Be Seen First

Title: Machine/Shear Operator - 1st shift Location: Huntsville, AL 35811 Duration : Temp to hire ... Based on proficiency could work under heavy to limited supervision. * Uphold all safety standards ...

You will lead a team of machine operators and laborers, managing everything from raw material ... Work Environment This position operates in a high-decibel industrial environment involving heavy ...

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

$20.50 - $28/hr

... 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

Decatur, AL

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... 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

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... 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 ...

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Heavy Machinery Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in Decatur, AL is $22.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.24 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 Decatur, AL?

For Heavy Machinery Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles 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 $46,244 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Harmon Scrap Metal LLC

Athens, AL โ€ข On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operate various material handling equipment such as material handlers, front-end loaders, and skid steers to move and load scrap materials.

  • Perform daily pre-operation inspections on equipment and report any defects or repairs needed.

  • Load scrap into trailers, unload vehicles, move materials throughout the yard, and maintain safety standards while keeping grounds clear of debris.


Job description

Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

The Heavy Equipment Operator supports the safe and efficient operation of the scrap yard by operating various material handling equipment relevant to a scrap yard, including material handlers, front-end loaders, skid steers, and other pieces of heavy or light equipment. Equipment operators may perform various duties, such as feeding the shredder feed conveyor, loading and unloading trucks, and moving materials safely about the yard. This position requires attention to detail and a strong emphasis on safety.

ABOUT HARMON SCRAP METAL

We are Harmon Scrap Metal, we recycle by processing scrap metal, and we are growing by the day. Our mission is to empower people to recycle the past to impact the future. We are intentional and disciplined in our pursuit to see every team member reach their personal, professional, and financial goals through the work we do together. Our core values, Discipline, Trust, Accountability, Alignment, and Adaptability and Safety are the backbone of our business. They guide our hiring process and daily operations. We are transparent and results-oriented in all we do.

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES

  • Properly follow company and OSHA safety procedures; attend safety meetings and participate in safety program
  • Operate heavy equipment of various sizes, including material handler, loaders, skid steers, etc.
  • Duties include but are not limited to loading scrap into trailers, unloading vehicles, moving material throughout the yard, loading trucks
  • Perform daily pre-operation inspections on equipment, reporting any defects or needed repairs via CRMM app
  • Keep grounds clear of debris while maintaining safety standards
  • General labor duties that may include but not limited to sweeping, shoveling and general clean-up of any area and/or equipment throughout the yard
  • Effectively communicate over radio with teammates and truck drivers for traffic coordination, production, and safety procedures
  • Attend and participate in internal meetings and complete required training
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by management

BENEFITS

  • Company Paid Life Insurance, STD, Employee Dental & Vision Insurance 
  • Medical Insurance 
  • Paid Holidays
  • PTO Program
  • Professional Training & Development Opportunities

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

As an equal opportunity employer committed to meeting the needs of a multigenerational and multicultural workforce, Harmon Scrap Metal recognizes that a diverse staff, reflective of our community, is an integral and welcome part of a successful and ethical business. We hire local talent at all levels regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability and actively foster inclusion in all forms both within our company and across interactions with clients, candidates, and partners.

If this position caught your eye, send us your resume! For best consideration, include the job title and source where you found this position in the subject line of your email to careers@harmonscrapmetal.com.

Disclaimer: The sorting and processing of scrap metals involves using permanent magnets and electromagnets, creating magnetic fields, which can interfere with electronic medical devices like cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators.

Requirements:

KEY COMPETENCIES

  • Thorough understanding of practices involved in the use of various types of light and heavy equipment
  • Thorough understanding of maintenance and basic upkeep associated with light and heavy equipment
  • Thorough understanding of safety protocols and ability to safely operate machinery
  • Superior skill operating assigned equipment safely and efficiently
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety manuals and procedure manuals

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • 2 years of experience using a front-end loader, skid steer or scrap handler in an industrial/outdoor work environment
  • Knowledge of heavy-equipment operating principles
  • Ability to operate equipment under varying working conditions
  • Valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Sit for extended periods, up to 15 feet from ground level
  • Ability to lift, push, or pull a minimum of 50 pounds
  • Frequently climb up and down ladders; crouch and bend at the knee; stoop or bend at the waist; reach arms overhead; and twist and turn at the neck and trunk
  • Continually handle and grasp levers and dials; continuous leg and foot motion when using pedals
  • Work environment involves frequent and/or regular exposure to natural and unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals, biohazardous materials, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, and/or loud noises
  • Walk frequently on uneven surfaces