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Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

King County, WA

Heavy Equipment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$41.75 - $50.68/hr

DNRP-Natural Resources & Parks Division: SWD -Solid Waste Opening Date: 08/27/2026 Closing Date: 9 ... If you are a Heavy Equipment Operator who has experience operating heavy equipment with spreading ...

BrightView

Heavy Equipment Operator

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate ... Work near or about natural bodies of water. * Ability to work in extreme conditions - temperatures ...

Gunnison County, CO

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$28.53 - $32.49/hr

The County strives to preserve and promote the well-being of the County's citizens, natural ... Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49, depending on experience ...

GUNNISON COUNTY

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

The County strives to preserve and promote the well-being of the County's citizens, natural ... Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49, depending on experience ...

Gunnison County

Heavy Equipment Operator

Gunnison, CO · On-site

$23.60 - $31.69/hr

The County strives to preserve and promote the well-being of the County's citizens, natural ... Heavy Equipment Operator II: the hourly range is from $28.53 to $32.49, depending on experience ...

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Winchester, VA · Remote

$25 - $28/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for operating excavators, dozers, loaders, or backhoes on active job sites and keeping the grade and dirt work moving. You will work Monday ...

Skillforce

Heavy Equipment Operator

Front Royal, VA · Remote

$25 - $28/hr

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will be responsible for operating excavators, dozers, loaders, or backhoes on active job sites and keeping the grade and dirt work moving. You will work Monday ...

Harwell & Company

Heavy Equipment Operator

Mobile, AL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator Job Summary We have an immediate opening for a Heavy Equipment Operator. Candidates should have at least one year of experience operating a variety of heavy equipment ...

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Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

How much do natural disaster heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for natural disaster heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a natural disaster heavy equipment operator?

Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operators are specialized professionals who use large machinery—such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes—to assist in emergency response and recovery efforts following natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and earthquakes. Their primary role is to clear debris, build temporary roads, create firebreaks, and help restore essential infrastructure. They may work for government agencies, emergency response teams, or private contractors. Their expertise and quick action are vital in making affected areas safe and accessible for other responders and for the community's recovery.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a natural disaster heavy equipment operator?

To thrive as a Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operator, you need a high level of mechanical aptitude, equipment operation proficiency, and usually a commercial driver's license (CDL) or heavy equipment certification. Familiarity with machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, along with GPS and safety management systems, is typically required. Strong decision-making, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set outstanding operators apart in emergency situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and effective disaster response operations.

What challenges does a natural disaster heavy equipment operator face during emergency response situations?

As a Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operator, you may encounter unpredictable working conditions, such as unstable terrain, debris, and changing weather, which can make operating machinery more difficult. Time-sensitive tasks and the need to coordinate closely with emergency response teams can add pressure. Additionally, maintaining safety protocols while working long hours in high-stress environments is a frequent challenge. Adaptability, clear communication, and a strong focus on safety are essential to succeed in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

For Natural Disaster Heavy Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Paso, TX • On-site

Wright Construction Group LLC
See more jobs at Wright Construction Group LLCexternal

$45 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description:

POSITION SUMMARY

Wright Construction Group (WCG) is seeking a skilled and safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operator II to support construction, emergency response, disaster recovery, and infrastructure projects. The Heavy Equipment Operator II is responsible for operating a variety of medium to heavy construction equipment used in site development, earthmoving, grading, excavation, debris removal, utility installation, and related construction activities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate various types of heavy construction equipment in a safe and productive manner.
  • Perform excavation, grading, trenching, backfilling, loading, material handling, and site preparation activities.
  • Read and interpret grade stakes, construction plans, site markings, and surveying references.
  • Assist with establishing and maintaining required grades and elevations.
  • Conduct pre-trip, post-trip, and daily equipment inspections.
  • Identify and report equipment defects, maintenance issues, and safety concerns.
  • Perform basic preventive maintenance, including fluid checks, lubrication, and cleaning of assigned equipment.
  • Follow project specifications, supervisor instructions, and established work plans.
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA regulations, project safety requirements, environmental regulations, and company policies.
  • Work around utilities, underground infrastructure, structures, and other job-site hazards safely.
  • Assist labor crews and other field personnel as needed.
  • Maintain accurate equipment logs, inspection reports, and daily activity reports when required.
  • Support emergency response, disaster recovery, and debris management operations as assigned.
  • Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and required training programs.
  • Promote a culture of safety, teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.

EQUIPMENT OPERATED

Equipment may include, but is not limited to:

  • Hydraulic Excavators 
  • Bulldozers
  • Backhoes 
  • Wheel Loaders
  • Skid Steers 
  • Motor Graders
  • Compactors and Rollers
  • Telehandlers
  • Articulated Dump Trucks
  • Water Trucks
  • Other heavy construction equipment as assigned.
Requirements:

QUALIFICATIONS


  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience operating heavy construction equipment.
  • Working knowledge of grade reading, basic surveying references, and site layout controls.
  • Working knowledge of excavation, grading, and earthmoving operations.
  • Ability to safely operate multiple types of construction equipment.
  • Ability to read and understand construction plans, drawings, and project specifications.
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
  • Heavy equipment operator certification(s) as applicable or required.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment screenings, including background checks and drug testing when required.