1

Operating Equipment Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Fort Myers, FL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Qualifications: * 3-5 years of experience operating equipment in Heavy/Civil Construction. * OSHA 10 certification. Necessary Attributes: * Adaptability to different personalities and management ...

Equipment Operator

Morrow, GA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

... operating a forklift, clamp truck or cherry picker to move, locate, relocate, stack, and count merchandise. The Operator is accountable for the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle and may ...

Equipment Operator

Plainville, MA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Prior experience operating equipment. * 1+ year experience with Asphalt * Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills. * Ability to follow orders, especially under pressure. * Ability to work to ...

Equipment Operator

Shreveport, LA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

This role involves operating a range of heavy equipment--primarily medium to large size excavators--to dig trenches, move materials, set structures and pipes and prepare sites for utility ...

Equipment Operator

Sterling, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

This role involves operating a range of heavy equipment-primarily medium to large size excavators-to dig trenches, move materials, set structures and pipes and prepare sites for utility installation.

Equipment Operator

New Castle, DE

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Follow instructions for operating equipment and keeping records * Execute assignments in an accurate, timely and safe manner * Maintain a clean & safe environment * May be required to use RF scanner ...

Equipment Operator

West Haven, CT · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Qualifications: * 3-5 years of experience operating equipment in Heavy/Civil Construction. * OSHA 10 certification. Necessary Attributes: * Adaptability to different personalities and management ...

Equipment Operator

Westerville, OH · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

We have the people, equipment, construction materials, experience, and bonding capacity to complete ... Position Summary This role involves performing a variety of construction tasks, operating heavy ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Williston, ND · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

In this position, you will be responsible for operating equipment to help build roads, oil field locations, bitcoin project and other major projects we have coming up. Equipment Operated would be ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Operating Equipment information

See salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do operating equipment jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 pay 2000 a day?

In the field of operating equipment, high-paying roles such as specialized crane operators, heavy equipment supervisors, or industrial machinery managers can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-demand environments. These positions often require advanced skills, safety training, and sometimes long or irregular hours.

How much do equipment operators make?

Equipment operators in Ohio typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry. Skilled operators with certifications in specific machinery or safety training may earn higher wages, especially in construction, manufacturing, or transportation sectors.

What is the difference between Operating Equipment vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperating EquipmentEquipment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires equipment-specific certificationsOften requires similar certifications for machinery operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, factories, warehousesConstruction sites, industrial facilities, outdoor environments
Job FocusPerforming tasks using machineryOperating 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 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.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Heavy equipment operators can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

What is the highest paid equipment operator job?

The highest paid equipment operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as crane or heavy haul equipment operators, with crane operators earning a median annual salary exceeding $60,000 and higher in certain industries or locations. Certification, experience, and working in high-demand sectors like construction, oil and gas, or infrastructure projects can increase earning potential.
More about Operating Equipment jobs
Infographic showing various Operating Equipment job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Equipment Operator III

$28 - $34/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Keller North America rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Remedial Construction Services, L.P. is an environmental remediation, geotechnical construction, and civil construction contractor founded in 1989. We are a national leader in environmental remediation services, including soil remediation, soil stabilization and solidification, landfill cap and cell construction, permeable reactive barriers, deep soil mixing, biopolymer trenches, slurry walls and demolition of hazardous waste sites.

The Heavy Equipment Operator III is a senior level or finish grade operator position responsible for operating multiple types of powered construction equipment such as excavators and bulldozers of all sizes and motor graders to excavate, move, and grade materials within finish specifications, and erect structures in a safe and efficient manner. RECON holds safety as a core value, and the operator III must always be focused on safe work practices.


  • Observe and comply with all company and specific site safety and project policies
  • Supply input to Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and frequent improvements or changes to Job Safety Analysis Plan (JSAP)
  • Perform daily pre-inspection and on-going maintenance checks while operating equipment
  • Operate heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner to minimize the risk of injury, property damage, or loss of life according to all relevant policies and procedures
  • Excavate, move, and grade earth/aggregate or mix ingredients according to site specifications and within limitations of equipment in a safe and productive manner as determined by site construction conditions
  • Achieve acceptable rough and finish grade in all types of soils and conditions
  • Constant inspection and surveillance of surroundings before and during operation to ensure safe ground or slope conditions exist, as well as adequate distance observed for other equipment or personnel
  • Communicate professionally and respectfully with others by all means possible (visual or radio contact) including interpreting hand signals to determine where materials are to be placed or loaded
  • Work independently and conduct tasks with limited supervision
  • May assist in lifting, positioning, and securing of materials and work pieces during installation
  • Responsible for care and custody of equipment being operated, including daily cleaning and maintenance
  • Report all equipment maintenance issues to superintendent
  • Perform other miscellaneous duties as assigned
  • Pay attention to surrounding and monitor changes in site conditions
  • Follow directions and learn from senior operators and superintendents

Salary Range: $28.00 - $34.00 per hour

  • Knowledgeable in OSHA regulations regarding excavation methods and practices
  • Requires the ability to read survey stakes for alignment and grading
  • Perform duties of equipment operator while using different levels of PPE, which may include respiratory equipment
  • Perform duties of equipment operator while working in all safe outdoor weather conditions
  • Ability to travel over extended periods of time on short notice preferred
  • Ability to read, write, and understand math and English preferred
  • Must be able to read and properly interpret load charts for associated heavy equipment and manufacturer approved attachments
  • Required to pass skills test prior to operating equipment
  • Must be able to understand and demonstrate limitations of equipment
  • Must reliably show up on time for work five to seven days a week as required
  • Must have access to reliable transportation to get to and from the job site daily

Education/Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Five or more years of equipment operating experience
  • General construction experience preferred
  • MSHA Certification a plus
  • Field verification of operator experience
  • 40-Hour HAZWOPER training with current 8-Hour HAZWOPER refresher preferred
  • Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) preferred

Recon is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified women, minorities, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and others to apply.

Equal Employment Opportunity