A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
$16 - $21.75/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
$16 - $21.75/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Carnesville, GA · On-site
$16.50 - $22.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Carnesville, GA · On-site
$16.50 - $22.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Cottageville, SC · On-site
$17.25 - $23.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Cottageville, SC · On-site
$17.25 - $23.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Neodesha, KS · On-site
$15.75 - $21.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Neodesha, KS · On-site
$15.75 - $21.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Aquilla, TX · On-site
$17 - $23.25/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Aquilla, TX · On-site
$17 - $23.25/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Linden, NC · On-site
$16 - $22/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Linden, NC · On-site
$16 - $22/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Hendrix, OK · On-site
$16.50 - $22.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Hendrix, OK · On-site
$16.50 - $22.50/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Moline, KS · On-site
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Moline, KS · On-site
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Pittsburg, KS · On-site
$14.50 - $20/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Pittsburg, KS · On-site
$14.50 - $20/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Moline, KS · On-site
$15.25 - $21/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Moline, KS · On-site
$15.25 - $21/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
$15.50 - $21.25/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
$15.50 - $21.25/hr
A minimum of 1-year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer). * General mechanical knowledge. * Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
Equipment Operator
Madison, SD · On-site
$18.50 - $25.25/hr
Their primary responsibilities include safely and efficiently operating equipment like skid loaders, asphalt rollers and performing routine maintenance tasks. #hc190039
Quick apply
Equipment Operator
Madison, SD · On-site
$18.50 - $25.25/hr
Their primary responsibilities include safely and efficiently operating equipment like skid loaders, asphalt rollers and performing routine maintenance tasks. #hc190039
Equipment Operator
Steamboat Springs, CO · On-site
$20 - $27.50/hr
Work with our excavatgion division, operating equipment, on residential construction projects. Excavators, skidsteers, loaders, compactors, etc Skills Required: Must have minimum of 2 years ...
Equipment Operator
Steamboat Springs, CO · On-site
$20 - $27.50/hr
Work with our excavatgion division, operating equipment, on residential construction projects. Excavators, skidsteers, loaders, compactors, etc Skills Required: Must have minimum of 2 years ...
Heavy Equipment Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$25 - $28/hr
You take pride in operating equipment with skill and precision. You enjoy being in the seat, staying productive, and keeping material moving throughout the yard. You understand that great operators ...
Quick apply
Heavy Equipment Operator
Grand Rapids, MI · On-site
$25 - $28/hr
You take pride in operating equipment with skill and precision. You enjoy being in the seat, staying productive, and keeping material moving throughout the yard. You understand that great operators ...
$15.75 - $21.50/hr
In this position you will be operating equipment such as forklifts, skid steers, compactors, and other light equipment. You will be responsible for routine inspection and maintenance on the equipment ...
$15.75 - $21.50/hr
In this position you will be operating equipment such as forklifts, skid steers, compactors, and other light equipment. You will be responsible for routine inspection and maintenance on the equipment ...
Equipment Operator
Rockingham, NC · On-site
$16 - $22/hr
The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment, such as wheel loaders, to distribute materials accurately and efficiently. Qualifications: - Valid driver's license ...
Equipment Operator
Rockingham, NC · On-site
$16 - $22/hr
The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment, such as wheel loaders, to distribute materials accurately and efficiently. Qualifications: - Valid driver's license ...
In this position you will be operating equipment such as forklifts, skid steers, compactors, and other light equipment. You will be responsible for routine inspection and maintenance on the equipment ...
New
In this position you will be operating equipment such as forklifts, skid steers, compactors, and other light equipment. You will be responsible for routine inspection and maintenance on the equipment ...
New
Equipment Operator
Rockingham, NC · On-site
$16 - $22/hr
The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment, such as wheel loaders, to distribute materials accurately and efficiently. Qualifications: - Valid driver's license ...
Equipment Operator
Rockingham, NC · On-site
$16 - $22/hr
The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment, such as wheel loaders, to distribute materials accurately and efficiently. Qualifications: - Valid driver's license ...
AL · On-site
$15 - $20.50/hr
The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment, such as wheel loaders, to distribute materials accurately and efficiently. **Qualifications:** - Valid driver ...
AL · On-site
$15 - $20.50/hr
The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating and maintaining equipment, such as wheel loaders, to distribute materials accurately and efficiently. **Qualifications:** - Valid driver ...
Operating Equipment information
See salary details
$13.46 - $15.14
3% of jobs
$15.14 - $16.83
9% of jobs
$18.33 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.83 - $18.51
15% of jobs
$18.51 - $20.19
17% of jobs
The median wage is $20.97 / hr.
$20.19 - $21.88
14% of jobs
$21.88 - $23.56
13% of jobs
$24.40 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.56 - $25.24
10% of jobs
$25.24 - $26.92
7% of jobs
$26.92 - $28.61
6% of jobs
$28.61 - $30.29
4% of jobs
$30.29 - $31.97
2% of jobs
$13
$22
$31
How much do operating equipment jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for operating equipment in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with operating equipment, and how can they be addressed?
Professionals working with operating equipment often encounter challenges such as maintaining safety standards, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and managing time efficiently during operations. Staying up-to-date with equipment maintenance schedules and safety protocols is crucial to prevent breakdowns and accidents. Collaborating closely with maintenance teams and participating in regular training sessions can help address technical problems swiftly and improve overall operational efficiency.
What jobs in the US pay $300,000 a year?
In the field of operating equipment, high-paying roles such as senior crane operators, heavy equipment managers, or specialized industrial machinery supervisors can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industries or locations. These positions often require advanced skills, safety training, and sometimes overtime or supervisory responsibilities.
What is the difference between Operating Equipment vs Equipment Operator?
| Aspect | Operating Equipment | Equipment Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Typically requires equipment-specific certifications | Often requires similar certifications for machinery operation |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, factories, warehouses | Construction sites, industrial facilities, outdoor environments |
| Job Focus | Performing tasks using machinery | Operating and controlling machinery |
Operating Equipment and Equipment Operator roles are closely related, often overlapping in certifications and work environments. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Operating Equipment' describes the act or process, while 'Equipment Operator' refers to the person performing the task. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, and they are used interchangeably in many industries.
What does an equipment operator do?
An equipment operator is responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, or forklifts used in construction, manufacturing, or transportation. They ensure equipment functions safely and efficiently, often requiring certification and adherence to safety protocols. Their work environment can be physically demanding and may involve working in various weather conditions.
What are operating equipment jobs?
Operating equipment jobs involve the use, maintenance, and management of machinery and tools essential to a company's daily operations. These roles can include positions such as equipment operators, technicians, or handlers who work with vehicles, heavy machinery, or specialized tools. Professionals in these positions ensure that equipment is used safely and efficiently, often performing regular inspections and minor repairs. These jobs are common in industries like construction, manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operating Equipment Operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Operating Equipment Operator, you need solid mechanical aptitude, attention to safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent, with specialized training or licensing for certain machinery. Familiarity with equipment such as forklifts, bulldozers, or cranes, as well as experience using maintenance and safety management systems, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, situational awareness, and effective communication help operators excel in dynamic environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient operations and preventing costly accidents or equipment damage.
What is the highest paid equipment operator job?
The highest paid equipment operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as crane or heavy equipment operators working on large construction projects, with salaries exceeding $70,000 annually. Certification, experience, and working in high-demand industries or remote locations can increase earning potential.
What jobs pay $700 a day?
In the field of operating equipment, high-paying roles such as crane operators, heavy equipment operators, and specialized construction equipment operators can earn around $700 or more per day, especially with experience, certifications, and in demanding environments. These jobs often require specific skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership or licensing. Compensation varies based on location, project complexity, and employer.
More about Operating Equipment jobs
What job categories do people searching Operating Equipment jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Equipment jobs are:
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 18 days ago
Job description
We are looking for an EQUIPMENT OPERATOR to join our Moline, KS plant. As an Equipment Operator with Quikrete Heavy Construction Materials you will support daily operations at our plant facility by operating equipment and performing general plant tasks.
Why apply?
- Competitive wages.
- Opportunities for overtime.
- Company provided benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Company paid life and disability benefits, paid vacation, and 401K.
About the Role
Responsibilities:
- Operate equipment in support of daily plant production.
- Inspect plant areas and perform basic maintenance, repairs, and screen changes.
- Complete welding and fabrication tasks as needed.
- Identify safety hazards or equipment issues and respond appropriately.
About You
We Require:
- A minimum of 1–year of experience operating equipment (loader, haul truck, water truck, skid steer).
- General mechanical knowledge.
- Good organizational, verbal, and written communication skills.
About Us
Each day brings new challenges, and we make sure you are prepared for it all. Our dedication to continual improvement and hands-on training ensures you are ready for the many new experiences and challenges that you will face.
We Offer:
- A friendly and team-oriented work environment, with a supportive management team.
- Hands-on training for our employees and opportunities for advancement.
- A company dedicated to continuous improvement.
Ready to Apply?
The process is simple. Click on the “apply” button to get started. Good luck!