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Heavy Machinery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aptitude and knowledge in heavy equipment assembly * Knowledge of mechanics, hydraulics, light welding, reading blueprints, and electrical assembly is a major plus. * Keep records of production ...

Heavy Equipment types will range from compact construction equipment, earth moving equipment ... Operates equipment safely and efficiently, including use of hand tools, power tools, machines, and ...

Heavy Equipment types will range from compact construction equipment, earth moving equipment ... Operates equipment safely and efficiently, including use of hand tools, power tools, machines, and ...

Heavy Equipment types will range from compact construction equipment to large earth-moving, aerial ... Operating equipment safely and efficiently, including hand tools, power tools, machines, and ...

Heavy Equipment types will range from compact construction equipment, earth moving equipment ... Operates equipment safely and efficiently, including use of hand tools, power tools, machines, and ...

Heavy Equipment types will range from compact construction equipment to large earth-moving, aerial ... Operating equipment safely and efficiently, including hand tools, power tools, machines, and ...

Heavy Equipment types will range from compact construction equipment to large earth-moving, aerial ... Operating equipment safely and efficiently, including hand tools, power tools, machines, and ...

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Heavy Machinery information

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$33

$43

How much do heavy machinery jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy machinery in the United States is $33.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 equipment operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or certifications like a CDL or operator's license. Familiarity with specific machinery such as excavators, forklifts, or cranes, as well as knowledge of maintenance systems and safety technology, is crucial. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help operators work safely and efficiently in diverse jobsite conditions. These skills ensure the safe handling of equipment, minimize accidents, and maintain productivity on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy machinery operators on a daily basis?

Heavy machinery operators often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, maintaining strict safety protocols, and operating large equipment in confined or busy job sites. They must also stay attentive to machine maintenance needs to prevent breakdowns and ensure optimal performance. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to coordinate tasks and avoid accidents, making adaptability and teamwork important skills in this role.

What are heavy machinery operators?

Heavy machinery operators are skilled professionals who operate large equipment used in construction, mining, agriculture, and other industries. These machines include bulldozers, excavators, cranes, loaders, and graders. Operators are responsible for safely maneuvering these machines to move earth, lift heavy materials, or perform other tasks essential to building and infrastructure projects. They must understand equipment operation, safety protocols, and routine maintenance. Training and certification are often required to ensure operators can handle these powerful machines safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Heavy Machinery vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy MachineryHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires certifications in operating specific machineryRequires certifications/licenses for operating heavy equipment
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, industrial settingsConstruction sites, roads, industrial projects
Job RoleRefers to the machinery itself or the category of large machinesOperates heavy machinery on-site
Industry UsageUsed broadly to describe large machines and their functionsSpecific job title for operators of heavy machinery

Heavy Machinery refers to the large machines used in construction, mining, and industrial work, while Heavy Equipment Operator is the job role of operating those machines. Understanding the distinction helps in job searches and industry understanding, as Heavy Machinery is the equipment itself, and Heavy Equipment Operator is the skilled worker operating that equipment.

More about Heavy Machinery jobs
What cities are hiring for Heavy Machinery jobs? Cities with the most Heavy Machinery job openings:
What states have the most Heavy Machinery jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Machinery jobs include:
Infographic showing various Heavy Machinery job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $70,470 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Loading and Heavy Machinery Operator

Terral River Service Inc

Tallulah, LA

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Summary:

The Loading and Heavy Machinery Operator is responsible for the unloading of various aggregates and other materials from barge to truck. Must possess skills in organization, time management, communications, and safety awareness. This position reports to the Unloading Operations Manager.


Essential Job Functions:

  • Operates unloading and loading equipment and heavy machinery including material handlers, Skid Steer Loader, Front-End Loader, etc.
  • Routinely consults personnel on machine specifications and safety procedures for specific job tasks to ensure efficient and safe site operations.
  • Conducts routine inspections before operating equipment to identify needed maintenance or repairs.
  • Performs or requests necessary repairs and adjustments to equipment.
  • Communicates and reports on site activities when required.
  • Effectively completes unloading and related tasks.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Skills and Expertise Desired:

  • Working knowledge of operating heavy machinery.
  • Knowledge of unloading/loading procedures and techniques.
  • Ability to follow instructions and communicate effectively to subordinates.
  • Ability to complete safety awareness training and lead by example.
  • Excellent mechanical and problem-solving skills.
  • Extremely detail oriented and timely when completing reports.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure.
  • Ability to oversee and coordinate a variety of people in different roles.
  • Ability to quickly identify problems and efficiently solve them.


Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • One to two years of related experience desired.
  • Must be able to successfully pass a pre-employment background and drug screening.


Physical Requirements:

  • Able to complete physically demanding work.
  • Able to work in all types of weather as required.
  • Able to lift and carry heavy objects.
  • Good hand-eye-foot coordination and sense of balance.
  • Able to kneel, crouch, or crawl in awkward spaces to repair equipment.

Note: This job description provides a general overview of the typical responsibilities and qualifications for a Loading and Heavy Machinery Operator. Actual job requirements may vary based on the specific needs of the organization and industry standards.


About Terral RiverService, Inc: 

Terral RiverService (TRS) is a Family-owned business with a continually growing footprint of boats and barges throughout most of the inland waterway system of the US. We specialize in bulk storage, material handling, river, road and rail logistics along the Mississippi River system, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway and the inland waterways of Louisiana and southern Arkansas. With our growing fleet of push boats, river barges, and modern dock operations strategically located throughout the Lower Mississippi River Valley, we are outfitted to transport, handle, and store virtually any commodity needed in the marketplace. TRS has over 550 employees and has operations in multiple states.