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Lead Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Operator * Serve as a subject matter expert on recycling operations and material ... Equipment Operator Job Requirements: * High School Diploma or Equivalent * Previous Equipment ...

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, LEAD

Columbia, SC · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

Three (3) years of relevant prior experience in all aspects of operating a ten cubic yard, rear ... Ability to lead, operate or repair complex machinery or equipment that requires extended training ...

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Lead Equipment Operator information

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$15

$24

$35

How much do lead equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead equipment operator in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead equipment operator?

A Lead Equipment Operator is a skilled professional responsible for operating heavy machinery on construction sites or in industrial settings, while also overseeing and coordinating the work of other equipment operators. They ensure that equipment is used safely and efficiently, assign tasks, provide training, and troubleshoot any operational issues. Lead Equipment Operators also help maintain equipment, enforce safety regulations, and may communicate with site supervisors to ensure project goals are met on time.

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

To excel as a Lead Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, equipment operation expertise, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often accompanied by relevant certifications or licenses. Experience with heavy machinery, safety management systems, and knowledge of industry regulations and maintenance protocols are essential. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure safe operations and efficient team coordination. These skills are crucial for maintaining productivity, minimizing risks, and ensuring compliance on job sites.

What are some common challenges faced by a lead equipment operator and how can they be addressed?

Lead Equipment Operators often face challenges such as coordinating multiple machine operators, ensuring equipment is maintained properly, and meeting project deadlines in a safe manner. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to address these issues, as is a proactive approach to safety protocols and equipment inspections. Regular training and fostering teamwork among crew members can help mitigate operational setbacks and enhance productivity. Being adaptable and solution-oriented is key to successfully navigating the dynamic work environment typical of construction or industrial projects.

What is the difference between Lead Equipment Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectLead Equipment OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA certifications, CDL licenses, and specialized equipment trainingRequires OSHA certifications and equipment operation training
Work EnvironmentSupervises crews on construction sites, mines, or industrial facilitiesOperates machinery in construction, manufacturing, or mining settings
ResponsibilitiesLeads team, oversees safety, and ensures project deadlinesOperates heavy machinery to complete tasks

The main difference between a Lead Equipment Operator and an Equipment Operator is that the Lead supervises and coordinates team activities, ensuring safety and efficiency, while the Equipment Operator focuses primarily on operating machinery. Both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Lead role includes leadership responsibilities.

More about Lead Equipment Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Lead Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,047 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Full-Time Heavy Equipment Operator I or II

City of Homer Alaska

Homer, AK • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I

GENERAL FUNCTIONS

Safely operate heavy and light equipment for maintenance and construction of streets, drainage ditches, water and wastewater utilities and other City facilities in an efficient and proficient manner.

JOB FUNCTIONS AND MAJOR ACTIVITIES

1. Operate heavy equipment, backhoe, front end loader, boiler, trucks, etc., for maintenance of streets, drainage ditches, sewer and water utilities and parking lots.

2. Properly follow City of Homer policies and procedures and OSHA safety procedures. Bring problems, issues, or concerns to supervisor, Superintendent, or Public Works Director.

3.Perform manual labor as required in maintenance of City equipment or facilities.

4.Perform  routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned City equipment and refer defects or needed repairs to supervisor; clean equipment.

5.May need to control traffic at work sites by flagging to guide traffic through work areas, as required or assigned.

6.Perform other duties as directed by the Lead Equipment Operator, Superintendent or Public Works Director.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE

Considerable knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles. Ability to drive and operate the equipment under varying working conditions. Four years' experience operating heavy equipment preferred. Working knowledge in road construction/maintenance required and construction/maintenance of water and sewer systems preferred.  Working knowledge of hazards and safety precautions common to heavy equipment operations. Ability to work independently and in a team like setting. Basic computer knowledge required. Good customer service skills required. High School Diploma or GED and valid Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement required.

DECISION MAKING RESPONSIBILITIES

Direction is given daily of a specific nature by immediate supervisor or assigned leader.  Responsible for carrying out unit procedures.  Independent judgment and collaborative judgment is particularly important in situations where dangerous conditions are involved within unit and other divisions.  Activities are a major source of potential liability of to the City.  Moderate budget authority at unit level.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY

None.

EXTERNAL VISIBILITY/CONTACT

High frequency of contact and visibility with the public. Moderate contact with key service personnel in purchase of parts and supplies.  Infrequent contact with key City personnel, government officials and presentations and attendance at public meetings.

WORKING CONDITIONS

High frequency of exposure to adverse weather conditions such as extreme cold, snow and ice.  High frequency exposure to hazardous weather and working conditions such as working in deep ditches, use of steam boilers, working in confined spaces and use of hazardous paints and solvents.  Work includes heavy physical effort in lifting or moving equipment and in working in awkward positions with tools or equipment.  Position required to be on call and available for overtime. Work on holidays, weekends and various shifts will be required. 

This position is subject to the Commercial Driver's License Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR II

GENERAL FUNCTIONS

Safely operate heavy and light equipment for maintenance and construction of streets, drainage ditches, water and wastewater utilities and other City facilities in an efficient and proficient manner.

JOB FUNCTIONS AND MAJOR ACTIVITIES

1.Operate heavy equipment; grader, backhoe, front end loader, boiler, trucks, excavator, asphalt repair equipment, road painting equipment, etc., for maintenance of streets, drainage ditches, sewer and water utilities and parking lots.

2. Act as lead man when assigned on a crew working on a given job.

3.Properly follow City of Homer policies and procedures and OSHA safety procedures. Bring problems, issues, or concerns to supervisor, Superintendent, or Public Works Director.

4.Assist in training of lower-level employees performing the maintenance and repair duties, as required or assigned.

5.Perform manual labor as required in maintenance of City equipment or facilities.

6. Perform routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned City equipment and refer defects or needed repairs to supervisor; clean equipment.

7. May need to control traffic at work sites by flagging to guide traffic through work areas, as required or assigned.

8.Perform other duties as directed by the Lead Equipment Operator, Superintendent or Public Works Director.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE

Extensive knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles. Ability to drive and operate the equipment under varying working conditions. Five years' experience operating heavy equipment preferred.  Working knowledge of construction and maintenance of water, wastewater and road systems is preferred. Working knowledge of hazards and safety precautions common to heavy equipment operations. Ability to work independently and in a team like setting. Basic computer knowledge required. Good customer service skills required.  High school diploma or GED required.  Valid Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement required.

DECISION MAKING RESPONSIBILITIES

Direction is given daily of a specific nature by immediate supervisor or assigned leader.  Responsible for carrying out and developing procedures at unit level.  Independent judgment and collaborative judgment is particularly important in situations where dangerous conditions are involved within unit and other divisions.  Activities are a major source of potential liability.  Moderate budget authority at unit level.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY

May direct Public Works crew while completing a given task or project as assigned.

EXTERNAL VISIBILITY/CONTACT

High frequency of contact and visibility with the public. Moderate contact with key service personnel in purchase of parts and supplies.  Infrequent contact with key City personnel, government officials and presentations and attendance at public meetings.

WORKING CONDITIONS

High frequency of exposure to adverse weather conditions such as extreme cold, snow and ice.  High frequency exposure to hazardous weather and working conditions such as working in deep ditches, use of steam boilers, working in confined spaces and use of hazardous paints and solvents.  Work includes heavy physical effort in lifting or moving equipment and in working in awkward positions with tools or equipment.  Position required to be on call and available for overtime. Work on holidays, weekends and various shifts will be required. 

 This position is subject to the Commercial Driver's License Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.