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Light Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Brashear, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Edna, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Dublin, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Dublin, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Edna, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Brashear, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Coggon, IA · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

Signal Energy

Light Equipment Operator

Elm Mott, TX · On-site

We are seeking a skilled and reliable Light Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating a variety of light construction equipment to assist in the ...

RR Donnelley

Light Equipment Operator

Osage, IA · On-site

$20.50 - $23/hr

Light Equipment Operator Starting min rate of $20.50hr Schedule: -Monday - Friday -7:00am - 11:00pm -Occasional overtime may be required including weekends * Operate offline and auxiliary binding ...

RR Donnelley

Light Equipment Operator

Osage, IA · On-site

$20.50 - $23/hr

Light Equipment Operator Starting min rate of $20.50hr Schedule: -Monday - Friday -7:00am - 11:00pm -Occasional overtime may be required including weekends * Operate offline and auxiliary binding ...

Cameron County

LIGHT EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

San Benito, TX · On-site

$34K/yr

LIGHT EQUIPMENT OPERATOR PAY GRADE: 110 - $ 34,175.00 minimum salary Purpose of Classification Performs technical work in the maintenance, repair, or construction of road and drainage infrastructure.

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How much do light equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for light equipment operator in the United States is $21.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 700 a day?

Light equipment operators in construction, mining, or heavy industry can sometimes earn around $700 per day, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and experience. High-paying roles often involve working long hours, overtime, or in remote locations, and may require operating advanced machinery or heavy equipment. Earnings vary based on location, project scope, and industry demand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Light Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

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 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 is the highest paid equipment operator job?

The highest paid equipment operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as crane or heavy construction equipment operators, especially those with certifications and extensive experience. These roles typically require advanced skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership, leading to higher wages compared to standard equipment operators.

What is a light equipment operator?

A light equipment operator is a worker who operates small construction or landscaping machinery such as skid steers, mini excavators, and loaders. They are responsible for safely handling equipment, performing site preparation, and assisting with construction or maintenance tasks. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are often required for this role.

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 are light equipment operators?

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.

How much do light equipment operators make?

Light equipment operators typically earn an average hourly wage of $15 to $25, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Annual salaries generally range from $30,000 to $50,000, with higher pay for those with specialized skills or certifications. Wages can vary based on industry and project demands.
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Light Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Light Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,747 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Light Equipment Operator

Light Equipment Operator

North Texas Municipal Water District

Wylie, TX • On-site

$21.34 - $31.59/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

North Texas Municipal Water District rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) provides vital wholesale water, wastewater and solid waste management services to more than two million people who call North Texas their home. Our culture is deeply ingrained in our core values of Integrity, Trust, Respect, Unity, Service, and Teamwork (ITRUST). Our employees will tell you they feel a sense of purpose and have a daily opportunity to make a positive impact on the cities we serve by helping to provide services that their residents and businesses need to thrive. We offer an array of excellent benefits, including comprehensive health and wellness packages, generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, and a robust pension plan to help secure our employees' financial future. If you are looking for a rewarding, long-term career where you can make a meaningful impact on the North Texas region, look no further than NTMWD!
Position Summary
The Light Equipment Operator position performs duties in conjunction with the NTMWD Facilities Services operations. Must be capable of operating a rubber tire backhoe, a track backhoe, loader, and dump truck. Works under the general supervision of the Pipeline Crewleader.
Job Responsibilities
  • Operates and monitors performance of the construction type equipment such as loaders, backhoes, skid steers with minimal supervision in a safe manner.
  • Performs routine preventive maintenance and minor repairs on equipment operated with minimal supervision.
  • Responsible for housekeeping in assigned units.
  • May act as a Lead Maintenance Worker when not operating equipment.
  • Observes safe work practices through proper use of safety equipment and procedures including permit required confined space entry and lock out tag out.
  • Repairs water and sewer lines in accordance with applicable rules and regulations.
  • Must become proficient in the use of the District Computerized Maintenance Management System (Maximo).
  • Maybe required to work nights, weekends, and holidays when called upon.
  • Participates in a rotational "On Call" shift status to respond to NTMWD repairs outside of normal business hours, and works overtime as needed.
  • Attends all safety training as required and directed.
  • Remains current on all safety operations for light equipment when on job sites and in the plant or other locations owned by NTMWD.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements
Education & Experience:
  • Must possess a high school diploma or G.E.D.
  • Two years of experience in operation of construction type equipment.
  • Prefer a Class "C" Distribution and or Type II Collections license issued by TCEQ.
  • Requires a valid Texas Commercial Driver's License or must obtain within 6 months of employment.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Spatial discrimination; eye hand foot coordination; manual dexterity; ability to follow written and oral instructions; generally good physical condition.

Environmental and Physical Working Conditions
Driving a District vehicle for business will be required. Employees required to drive as part of their job duties are responsible for maintaining a current, valid, and vehicle - appropriate driver' s license of their resident state.
This position requires moderate physical exertion with daily lifting requirements up to 75 pounds. Working conditions include exposure to weather and odor. Subject to shift work. Equipment used includes dozers, loaders, dump trucks, fuel truck, backhoes, air compressors, high-pressure washers, mini excavators, mowers, and other construction type equipment.
Thank you for considering a career with us! We value diversity, equal opportunity, and a positive work environment. We are committed to providing a rewarding and fulfilling career with opportunities for growth and development. If you are passionate about making a difference and contributing to a dynamic and growing organization, we want to hear from you. Apply today and let's explore the potential of working together to provide affordable, safe and reliable water, wastewater, and solid waste management services to the North Texas region.

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