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Heavy Machinery Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EARTHWORK 360 INC

Heavy Machine Operator

Imperial, PA

$25 - $35/hr

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... The ideal candidate has all the necessary licensing to operate heavy machinery, works well in a ...

Lozano Paving LLC

Heavy Machine Operator

Mesquite, TX

$23 - $30/hr

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... The ideal candidate has all the necessary licensing to operate heavy machinery, works well in a ...

Lozano Paving LLC

Heavy Machine Operator

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... The ideal candidate has all the necessary licensing to operate heavy machinery, works well in a ...

Lozano Paving LLC

Heavy Machine Operator

Mesquite, TX · On-site

$23 - $30/hr

As a Heavy Machine Operator, you will work behind the wheel operating a variety of heavy machinery ... The ideal candidate has all the necessary licensing to operate heavy machinery, works well in a ...

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Heavy Machinery Operator information

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$23

$33

How much do heavy machinery operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is the highest paid heavy equipment operator job?

The highest paid heavy machinery operators typically work in specialized fields such as crane operation, pipeline construction, or mining, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles usually require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and operating complex or high-risk equipment in demanding environments.

What machine operator pays the most?

Heavy machinery operators such as crane, drill, and excavator operators tend to earn the highest wages within the field, especially those with specialized skills and certifications. Factors influencing pay include experience, industry, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated. Typically, crane operators and other high-skill equipment operators earn higher salaries due to the technical expertise required.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Machinery Operator, and why are they important?

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's the highest paid heavy equipment operator?

The highest paid heavy machinery operators are often those with specialized skills, extensive experience, and certifications in high-demand areas such as oil and gas, mining, or large-scale construction projects. Operators working in remote or hazardous environments tend to earn higher wages, with top earners making over $70,000 annually. Advanced training and operating complex or expensive equipment can also increase earning potential.

What are some common challenges Heavy Machinery Operators face on the job, 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 are Heavy Machinery Operators?

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.
More about Heavy Machinery Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Machinery Operator job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Machinery Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Machinery Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Machinery Operator jobs are:
Heavy Machinery Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Machinery Operator Street Department

City of Great Falls, MT

Great Falls, MT • On-site

$24.10 - $26.58/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: $24.10 - $26.58 Hourly
Location : Public Works, 1005 25th Ave NE, Great Falls, MT
Job Type: Regular Full Time
Job Number: 25-00029
Department: Public Works
Division: Street
Opening Date: 03/17/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Union Classification: Crafts Council - Operators Union
NATURE OF WORK
Responsibility for providing semi-skilled to skilled construction, maintenance and repair of the City's street system. Work is performed under the general direction of the Street & Traffic Manager and Street & Traffic Superintendent.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF WORK
  • Operates trucks and heavy equipment in snow and ice removal, sanding operations and the hauling of materials to and from work sites.
  • Operates a wide variety of heavy equipment in all phases of the repair and restoration of the city's road and street networks.
  • Sets up traffic control devices and equipment; shovel, rake and jackhammer asphalt and concrete; fills cracks and potholes in roads and streets.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • One year of experience in heavy equipment operation or two years of experience in street construction, maintenance and repair is desirable.

NECESSARY SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS
Class A CDL (Commercial Driver's License) with Air Brake and Tanker Endorsement and other special licensure or equipment certifications as required or the ability to obtain one within 6 months of employment.
**As of January 6, 2020, employers of CDL drivers must query the Clearinghouse to verify that a current or prospective driver is not prohibited from operating CMVs or performing other safety sensitive functions. CDL Drivers must now be registered with the FMCSA Clearinghouse. For more information, please visit the website at https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov.
REQUIREMENTS OF WORK
  • Substantial knowledge of equipment operation and maintenance, material, procedures, applications, and practices of street construction and maintenance and snow and ice control.
  • Substantial knowledge of the use of power and hand tools.
  • Ability to follow verbal/written instructions, and maintain accurate written records.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, supervisors and the general public.
  • General knowledge of Street Divisions Standard Operating Procedures and Best Management Practices.
  • Ability to work safely and follow Safety Policies.

CORE COMPETENCIES
  • Safety Minded
  • Quality Orientated
  • Team Player
  • Time Management
  • Thoroughness
  • Technical Capacities

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
This position does not supervise but provides technical guidance and work review for staff members. This position may be assigned Lead worker status.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in inclement weather conditions. The employee is exposed to cold, heat, noise, dust, vibration, confined spaces, chemicals, and moving traffic.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, bend, twist, reach, ride and perform similar body movements. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 90 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move over 90 pounds. When lifting more than 90 pounds employees are encouraged to use a team lift. The employee must possess hand/eye coordination sufficient to operate a personal computer, office equipment and a motor vehicle; the ability to talkand hear in person or by telephone; and the ability to see and read instructions and reports.
EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
The work schedule is a 40-hour work week, Sunday through Saturday. Work is typically performed Monday through Friday. Schedule involves mandatory shift work to include nights, overtime, weekends and holidays. This position is a non-exempt and eligible for overtime which must be approved prior to working. It is expected employees report to work on time, fully prepared for scheduled work days.
TRAVEL
Travel is primarily local during the business day. Occasional travel may be required to attend off-site training and educational opportunities.
Full-time Employee Benefits
The City of Great Falls offers a complete benefits package to our full-time employee including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement/pensions, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The City offers life and long term disability insurance to all full-time non-union employees. Union employees receive longevity pay. Optional plans are available for employees, flexible spending account, and 457 deferred compensation accounts.
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