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Light Equipment Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Harmon Scrap Metal LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Athens, AL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... light equipment. Equipment operators may perform various duties, such as feeding the shredder feed conveyor, loading and unloading trucks, and moving materials safely about the yard. This position ...

Harmon Scrap Metal LLC

Heavy Equipment Operator

Athens, AL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

... light equipment. Equipment operators may perform various duties, such as feeding the shredder feed conveyor, loading and unloading trucks, and moving materials safely about the yard. This position ...

company479

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I- Public Works

Anniston, AL · On-site

$13.49 - $19.55/hr

Performs light maintenance and servicing in connection with equipment operated; notifies supervisor of mechanical or safety problems. May assist mechanic with field repairs. Drive and operate leaf ...

Harbor Pointe Marina

Equipment Operator

Dadeville, AL · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Equipment operators are responsible for operating heavy equipment to assist in the ... Light work that includes moving objects up to 20 pounds ☐ Medium work that includes moving ...

Action

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental ... Ability to operate light and heavy equipment, handles various hand tools and powered industrial ...

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental ... Ability to operate light and heavy equipment, handles various hand tools and powered industrial ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Duties Including, but not limited to: • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work ... Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Birmingham, AL

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Duties Including, but not limited to: • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work ... Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Duties Including, but not limited to: • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work ... Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Duties Including, but not limited to: • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work ... Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Duties Including, but not limited to: • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work ... Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing ...

SA Recycling

Equipment Operator

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Job Duties Including, but not limited to: • Operate metal processing equipment using safe work ... Light to Moderate • Work Capacity: Shredder Operator _ Work Capacity • Sensory Demands: Hearing ...

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All JobsLight Equipment Operator JobsLight Equipment Operator Jobs in Alabama

Light Equipment Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$11

$19

$29

How much do light equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for light equipment operator in Alabama is $19.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a light equipment operator?

Light equipment operators are skilled workers who operate smaller construction machinery such as skid steers, mini-excavators, backhoes, and loaders. They are responsible for safely maneuvering equipment to move materials, dig trenches, grade surfaces, and perform other site preparation tasks. Light equipment operators play a crucial role in construction, landscaping, roadwork, and municipal maintenance projects. They must be knowledgeable about equipment operation, safety protocols, and routine maintenance.

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

To thrive as a Light Equipment Operator, you need hands-on experience with operating light machinery such as forklifts, loaders, and small excavators, often supported by a high school diploma and a valid equipment operator’s license or certification. Familiarity with safety protocols, maintenance procedures, and sometimes GPS or telematics systems is typically required. Attention to detail, good communication, and reliability are important soft skills for effective teamwork and job site safety. These skills ensure efficient, safe operation of machinery and help prevent accidents, leading to successful project outcomes.

What are some common challenges light equipment operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Light Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as operating machinery in varying weather conditions, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring equipment is well-maintained to prevent breakdowns. Adaptability and strong communication with supervisors and team members are crucial for overcoming these obstacles. Regular safety training and proactive equipment checks can also help minimize operational issues and maintain a safe work environment.

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

AspectLight Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsValid driver’s license, safety certificationsValid driver’s license, heavy machinery certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, landscaping, utility workLarge-scale construction, mining, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageConstruction, landscaping, municipal workConstruction, mining, heavy infrastructure

Light Equipment Operators typically handle smaller machinery like skid steers and mini-excavators in construction or landscaping. Heavy Equipment Operators work with larger machinery such as bulldozers and cranes on major construction or mining sites. Both roles require safety certifications and licenses, but Heavy Equipment Operators often need additional specialized training. The roles differ mainly in the size and scope of machinery operated and the project scale.

What are popular job titles related to Light Equipment Operator jobs in Alabama?

For Light Equipment Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Light Equipment Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Light Equipment Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Light Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Light Equipment Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Light Equipment Operator jobs in AL?

For Light Equipment Operator jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Light Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Equipment Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,558 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Light Equipment Operator

City of Enterprise, AL

Enterprise, AL • On-site

$14.06 - $21.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Salary: $14.06 - $21.40 Hourly
Location : 553 Glover Avenue, Enterprise, AL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 24-00015
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 05/12/2026
Description
This position operates light equipment in maintenance of city rights-of-way and other properties.
Job Domains
  • Operates a variety of equipment, including mowers, tractor and bushhog, weed trimmers, etc.

  • Maintains assigned equipment; performs inspections to ensure safety and operability.

  • Transports materials and equipment to and from work sites.

  • Flags traffic and installs traffic control devices at work sites.

  • Mows rights-of-way and other city property.

  • Clears clogged storm drains.

  • Lays sod.

  • Collects litter.

  • Assists with solid waste collection duties as needed.

  • Responds to after-hours emergencies.

  • Performs related duties.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION
  • Knowledge of the techniques, equipment, and supplies used in grounds maintenance.

  • Knowledge of city and departmental safety policies and procedures.

  • Knowledge of the geography of the city, including street names and locations.

  • Skill in the operation of assigned equipment.

  • Skill in the use of hand and power tools.

  • Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The Street Maintenance Crewleader assigns work in terms of somewhat general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with instructions and established procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.
GUIDELINES
Guidelines include traffic laws, work safety policies, and city and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.
COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK
  • The work consists of related equipment operation and duties. Inclement weather and heavy traffic contribute to the complexity of the position.

  • The purpose of this position is to operate light equipment in the maintenance city rights-of-way and other property. Successful performance contributes to the provision of well-maintained city property.

CONTACTS
  • Contacts are typically with coworkers, vendors, and the general public.

  • Contacts are typically to exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, climbs ladders, uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and utilizes the sense of smell.

  • The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee is exposed to dust, dirt, grease, and machinery with moving parts. The work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY
None.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Possession or a high school diploma or GED.

  • Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.

  • Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Alabama for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

The City of Enterprise offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time permanent employees that includes retirement, vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and other supplemental insurances and deferred retirement saving plans. For a more detailed overview of our benefits package, please visit the Employee Benefits Summary within our website or contact the Human Resource Department at (334) 348-2699.
01
Do you possess at least a high school diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you currently possess or can you readily obtain a valid driver license issued by the State of Alabama for the type of vehicle or equipment operated?
  • I currently possess a valid driver license issued by the State of Alabama for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
  • I can readily obtain a valid driver license issued by the State of Alabama for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
  • I do not currently possess, nor can I readily obtain, a valid driver license issued by the State of Alabama for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.

03
Please indicate which best describes your experience understanding basic principles relevant to the major duties of this position.
  • None, but willing to learn
  • Apprenticeship/Internship
  • Less than 1 year
  • At least 1 year, but less than 2 years
  • At least 2 years, but less than 4 years
  • At least 4 years, but less than 6 years
  • At least 6 or more years

Required Question

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