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Heavy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SAN DIEGO HEAVY TRUCK & EQUIPMENT REPAIR, INC

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Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic

Lakeside, CA · On-site

$28 - $50/hr

* Diesel Technician - Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair Join Our Team at San Diego Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair, Inc. - Lakeside, CA We're a growing, family-owned heavy-duty diesel repair shop looking ...

V2X

Mechanic, Heavy Equipment

Fort Irwin, CA

$26 - $34.50/hr

Overview Mechanic-Heavy Equipment "WTRS" Fort Irwin, CA This position is full time for the National Training Center Training Support Contract (NTCTSC) at the National Training Center (NTC). NTCTSC ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

Essel is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate various types of heavy machinery and equipment to ensure the successful completion of our ...

V2X

$25.50 - $33.50/hr

Overview Mechanic-Heavy Equipment "WTRS" Fort Irwin, CA This position is full time for the National Training Center Training Support Contract (NTCTSC) at the National Training Center (NTC). NTCTSC ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

Essel is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate various types of heavy machinery and equipment to ensure the successful completion of our ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

Essel is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate various types of heavy machinery and equipment to ensure the successful completion of our ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$27.79/hr

Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA

$27.79/hr

Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA

$27.79/hr

Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site that prides itself on employee safety? Searching for a company that prioritizes its employees' well-being and understands the importance ...

Weber General Engineering Inc

Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Dixon, CA · On-site

$27.25 - $35.75/hr

Weber General Engineering Inc. (WGE) is a Heavy Civil Construction company with over 20 years of experience delivering site work, underground utilities, and asphalt paving solutions for private and ...

Posted today

Cascade Custom Cutting Inc.

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Heavy Machine Operator

Weed, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Heavy Machine Operator Job Overview The Heavy Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery in forest timber removal projects. This role requires knowledge ...

Cascade Custom Cutting Inc.

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Heavy Machine Operator

Weed, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Heavy Machine Operator Job Overview The Heavy Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery in forest timber removal projects. This role requires knowledge ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oakland, CA · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment and machinery to support the construction, maintenance, and operations of our facilities and projects. This role ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsHeavy JobsHeavy Jobs in California

Heavy information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$43

How much do heavy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy in California is $33.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.66 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery used in construction, mining, and other industries. These machines can include bulldozers, cranes, backhoes, loaders, and excavators. Operators are responsible for safely maneuvering equipment to move earth, lift materials, and complete various tasks on job sites. They often need to perform routine maintenance and safety checks on their equipment. Training and certification may be required for certain types of heavy machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operator?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supported by specialized training or operator certification. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders, along with experience using GPS and telematics systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation and contribute to project success and workplace safety on construction sites.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy equipment operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, maintaining safety on busy job sites, and operating complex machinery with precision. Addressing these challenges involves diligent adherence to safety protocols, ongoing equipment training, and strong communication with site supervisors and team members. Proactively reporting maintenance issues and participating in regular safety meetings also help ensure smooth operations and reduce workplace risks.

What is the difference between Heavy vs Crane Operator?

AspectHeavyCrane Operator
Required CredentialsHeavy Equipment Operator License, safety certificationsCrane Operator Certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settingsConstruction sites, ports, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, mining, loggingConstruction, shipping, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for equipment operation rolesSpecialized role focusing on cranes

Heavy equipment operators handle various machinery like bulldozers and loaders, while crane operators specifically operate cranes for lifting heavy materials. Both roles require safety certifications and work in construction or industrial environments, but crane operators focus on lifting with cranes, whereas heavy equipment operators handle a broader range of machinery.

What cities in California are hiring for Heavy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Heavy job openings:

Heavy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,547 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Diesel Mechanic

SAN DIEGO HEAVY TRUCK & EQUIPMENT REPAIR, INC

Lakeside, CA • On-site

$28 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

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Job description

  • Diesel Technician – Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair
    Join Our Team at San Diego Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair, Inc. – Lakeside, CA
    We're a growing, family-owned heavy-duty diesel repair shop looking for an experienced Diesel Technician to join our team. We take pride in quality repairs, honest work, and treating our employees with respect.
    Whether you're a seasoned wrench-turner or an experienced diagnostic technician, we'd love to hear from you.
    What You'll Do
    Ideal Candidate
    • Diagnose and repair heavy-duty diesel trucks and equipment
    • Perform engine, transmission, drivetrain, electrical, hydraulic, brake, suspension, and cooling system repairs
    • Complete preventative maintenance and inspections
    • Use diagnostic software and OEM tools (a plus, but not required)
    • Communicate repair findings with our service advisor
    • Maintain a clean and safe work environment
    • 3+ years of heavy-duty diesel repair experience (preferred)
    • Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting skills
    • Experience with Cummins, Paccar, Detroit, Volvo, International, CAT, or similar platforms
  • Computer diagnostic and programming experience is a huge plus
  • Valid driver's license (CDL is a bonus)
  • Own basic hand tools
  • Positive attitude, dependable, and works well with a team

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Paid vacation
  • Sick leave
  • Stable, year-round work
  • Supportive, family-oriented environment
  • Modern diagnostic equipment and a variety of interesting work

If you're tired of being just another number at a dealership and want to work somewhere you're appreciated, we'd love to meet you.

Apply in person, send your resume, or give us a call.

San Diego Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair, Inc.
Lakeside, California

Company Description

San Diego Heavy Truck & Equipment Repair, Inc. is a family-owned and operated heavy-duty diesel repair shop located in Lakeside, California. We specialize in servicing heavy-duty trucks, commercial fleets, construction equipment, trailers, and motorhomes.
Our team provides complete diesel diagnostics and repair, including engines, transmissions, electrical systems, hydraulics, aftertreatment systems, DOT and BIT inspections, CARB compliance testing, and preventative maintenance.
We believe in doing the job right the first time, treating our customers honestly, and creating a workplace where our employees are respected and appreciated. Our technicians are trusted professionals, not just numbers on a payroll.
As a veteran-owned business, we take pride in integrity, teamwork, and providing exceptional service to the businesses that keep Southern California moving. We offer stable, year-round work, a supportive team environment, and opportunities to grow your skills with a wide variety of equipment and repairs.
If you're looking for a shop where your experience is valued and your work makes a difference, we'd love to meet you.