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Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator information

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How much do highway maintenance equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for highway maintenance equipment operator in the United States is $22.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a highway maintenance equipment operator?

Highway Maintenance Equipment Operators are skilled workers responsible for operating machinery and vehicles used in the construction, repair, and maintenance of highways and roads. Their duties include running equipment such as snowplows, graders, dump trucks, and asphalt spreaders to ensure roads are safe and well-maintained. They may also perform manual tasks like patching potholes, clearing debris, and setting up traffic control devices. These operators often work for government transportation departments or private contractors and must follow safety procedures to protect themselves and the public.

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

To thrive as a Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator, you need a solid understanding of road maintenance procedures, safe heavy equipment operation, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with machinery like snow plows, graders, dump trucks, and the use of GPS or maintenance management systems is common. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the safety and efficiency of roadways, help prevent accidents, and support smooth transportation infrastructure operations.

What are some common challenges faced by highway maintenance equipment operators, and how can they prepare for them?

Highway Maintenance Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, operating heavy machinery in high-traffic areas, and responding quickly to emergencies like road hazards. To prepare, operators should be comfortable with flexible schedules, follow strict safety protocols, and stay up-to-date with equipment training. Working closely with a team and maintaining clear communication are also essential for managing unexpected situations and ensuring the safety of both workers and the public.

What is the difference between Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator vs Road Maintenance Worker?

AspectHighway Maintenance Equipment OperatorRoad Maintenance Worker
CredentialsDriver's license, equipment operation certificationsDriver's license, basic maintenance certifications
Work EnvironmentOperating heavy machinery on highways and roadsPerforming manual labor and minor repairs on roads
Employer & IndustryState and local transportation departmentsMunicipal public works departments
Common TasksOperating bulldozers, loaders, and snowplowsPatching potholes, cleaning drains, minor repairs

Highway Maintenance Equipment Operators focus on operating heavy machinery to maintain and repair highways, while Road Maintenance Workers perform manual tasks and minor repairs. Both roles are essential in road upkeep but differ mainly in equipment use and scope of work.

What cities are hiring for Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator jobs?

For Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,507 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Maintenance Equipment Operator - Pit

Sisters, OR β€’ On-site

Black Butte Ranch
51 - 200 employees

$20.50 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

About Black Butte Ranch
Black Butte Ranch is a destination resort in Central Oregon, surrounded by Cascade mountain views, Ponderosa pines, and a strong sense of community. Set across 1,800 acres, the Ranch features championship golf courses, lodging, restaurants, pools, spa, trails, a private lake, and year-round recreation.
Working here means being part of a collaborative team dedicated to creating memorable guest experiences in one of the Pacific Northwest's most beautiful settings.


Job Summary

The Maintenance Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment and performing general maintenance to support the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of Black Butte Ranch. This role maintains Ranch roads, grounds, and infrastructure, performs snow removal, operates maintenance equipment, and assists with various maintenance projects while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

  • Operate heavy equipment, including backhoes, front-end loaders, gravel trucks, snowplows, street sweepers, and crack sealing machines.
  • Operate hand tools and power equipment to maintain Ranch property and infrastructure.
  • Perform snow removal operations during winter weather.
  • Operate, monitor, and maintain burn box activities in compliance with DEQ and state regulations, including required documentation and annual reporting.
  • Perform general labor and maintenance tasks to support Ranch operations.
  • Assist with projects for other departments, including golf course maintenance and improvement projects.
  • Work independently to prioritize tasks and meet established deadlines.
  • Inspect equipment and report maintenance or repair needs to the Maintenance Manager.
  • Provide courteous service when interacting with employees, homeowners, and guests.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience operating heavy equipment.
  • MUST HAVE Valid CDL Class B driver's license or higher required.
  • Demonstrated ability to safely operate heavy equipment and power tools.
  • Basic mechanical knowledge and the ability to identify equipment maintenance needs.
  • Ability to work independently and make sound decisions regarding work priorities.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work outdoors in all weather conditions, including summer heat and winter cold.
  • Availability to work weekends and respond to after-hours callouts as needed.


Offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Our commitment to service starts with our team. We foster a welcoming, inclusive workplace and make employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs in accordance with applicable laws.