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

Molding Operator

Huntsville, AL ยท On-site

$24.11/hr

Mechanical proficiency and willingness to operate industrial machinery. * Novice computer skills ... WORKING CONDITIONS-Heavy industrial environment, including, but not limited to exposure to heat ...

Mill Operator-1st Shift

Falkville, AL ยท On-site

$18.54/hr

Heavy Lifting is required on a regular basis.A culture that promotes serving others, anticipating ... The Mill Operator sets up, operates and tends milling machines to mix, mill and shape rubber ...

New

Laborer Telecom Aerial

Tanner, AL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

... heavy machinery * Occasionally : use ladder, keyboard and mouse Why grow your career with us Your career here is more than just a job - it's your pathway to opportunity. Our hands-on training ...

Forklift Operator

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Set up and operate the Machines, loading metal sheets or plates and ensuring the machine cuts ... Physical: Ability to stand, walk, and occasionally lift heavy materials (up to 50 pounds)

Material Handler

Madison, AL ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Conveys materials using wheelbarrow, hand truck, forklift, electric dolly, elevator, or other devices; stacks or assembles materials; aids machine operators by lifting heavy objects by hand or by use ...

Mechanic

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

... operating at the highest level. Come join the 7,000 employees worldwide working at Primetals ... Ensures operation of machinery and mechanical equipment by completing preventive maintenance ...

Mechanic

Decatur, AL ยท On-site

... operating at the highest level. Come join the 7,000 employees worldwide working at Primetals ... Ensures operation of machinery and mechanical equipment by completing preventive maintenance ...

BANDING LINE OPERATOR-3rd

Trinity, AL ยท On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

The banding line operator oversees the accurate packaging of all coils processed by the slitters on ... Exposure to moving machinery, heavy equipment, and sharp objects. * Work areas may be subject to ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Overview

The Machinist I produces replacement metal parts, shaping new parts and operating standard machine tools like lathes, mills, and grinders, following detailed blueprints.

Responsibilities

Cutting and shearing sheet metal: Utilize power shears, hand shears, and other cutting tools to precisely cut sheet metal to the desired size and shape. Bending and forming sheet metal: Operate metal bending machines like press brakes to form sheet metal into complex shapes and angles as per the design. Operating fabrication machinery: Proficiently operate various sheet metal fabrication equipment like CNC punch, power shears, press brakes, rolling machines, and hand tools. Produces replacement parts and new parts in making repairs of metal parts of mechanical equipment. Work involves most of the following: interpreting written instructions and specifications, planning and laying out of work, using a variety of machinist's hand tools and precision measuring instruments, setting up and operating standard machine tools. Responsible for the shaping of metal parts to close tolerances, making standard shop computations relating to dimensions of work, tooling, feeds, and speeds of machining; knowledge of the working properties of the common metals, selecting standard materials, parts, and equipment required for this work; and fitting and assembling parts into mechanical equipment. In general, the machinist's work normally requires a rounded training in machine-shop practice, usually acquired through a formal apprenticeship or equivalent training and experience.

Qualifications

Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED required
  • Technical or Military School Training preferred

Experience:

  • Two years related experience required
  • Ability to calculate dimensions, tolerances, and perform basic mathematical calculations
  • High level of precision and accuracy when measuring and machining partsย 
  • Ability to lift and manipulate heavy materialsย 

Any combination of education/experience may be substituted for job requirements at the recommendation of the hiring manager and approval of the COO or higher.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME