1

Per Diem Equipment Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Per Diem Equipment Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do per diem equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem equipment operator in Indiana is $21.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a per diem equipment operator?

A Per Diem Equipment Operator is a skilled worker who operates heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, or forklifts, on a temporary or as-needed basis. 'Per diem' refers to being paid by the day, rather than as a full-time employee. These operators are often hired for specific projects, short-term assignments, or to fill in when regular staff are unavailable. They must be proficient in handling equipment safely and efficiently, often working in construction, utilities, or industrial settings. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits for this role.

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

To thrive as a Per Diem Equipment Operator, you need experience with heavy machinery, a valid operator’s license or certification, and a solid understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with equipment such as excavators, loaders, and forklifts, as well as digital maintenance tracking systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and strong communication skills help operators excel in variable schedules and diverse work environments. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and responsiveness to the demands of temporary or on-call assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by per diem equipment operators, and how can I prepare for them?

Per Diem Equipment Operators often face the challenge of adapting quickly to different job sites and equipment, as assignments and locations can vary frequently. This requires strong adaptability, a solid understanding of various machinery, and the ability to quickly learn site-specific safety protocols. Building good communication skills is crucial, as you may work with new teams regularly and need to coordinate tasks efficiently. Staying up-to-date with equipment certifications and maintaining flexibility in your schedule can help you succeed and secure more assignments.

What is the difference between Per Diem Equipment Operator vs Contract Equipment Operator?

AspectPer Diem Equipment OperatorContract Equipment Operator
CredentialsValid CDL, equipment operation certificationsValid CDL, equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments, various sitesProject-based, short-term contracts
Employer/Industry UsageEmployers hire per diem workers for specific shiftsContractors or agencies provide operators for projects

Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction or industrial sites. The main difference is that Per Diem Equipment Operators are hired directly by employers for daily shifts, while Contract Equipment Operators work through agencies or contractors on project-based contracts. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right opportunity based on employment type and work setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Per Diem Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Per Diem Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Per Diem Equipment Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,038 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Traveling Heavy Equipment Operator

Clean Harbors

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Clean Harbors rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 92 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Clean Harbors’ National Remediation team is seeking Traveling Heavy Equipment Operators. The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate a variety of equipment, such as, backhoes, bulldozers, loader, screeners, excavators as well as other equipment. Candidates must also be willing and able to perform manual labor as required. 
Travel Requirements: Equipment Operator (95-100% Travel). The typical travel rotation for this group is 6 weeks out on a project (not coming home on weekends) and then 1 week off. Flying is required to get to project locations unless it is a local job.

Location: Indiana preferred all other locations will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Pay Info: $26-32 DOE

Per Diem available while traveling, individual accommodations provided- single occupancy room with kitchenette- typically a long-term type of hotel property. Prevailing wage and overtime available depending on the job site.

**Year-round consistent work with time off every 6 weeks to recharge. 
Position Overview:

  • The Heavy Equipment Operator (Traveling) operates heavy equipment such as bulldozers, compactors, excavators, etc.
  • This individual will work either at a Clean Harbors facility or at a customer location. 
  • This position will require 95% travel in all 48 contiguous states (all travel expenses are covered). 

Why work for Clean Harbors?

  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5;
  • Competitive wages - Based on Experience;
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment;
  • Group 401K with company matching component;
  • Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement;
  • Positive and safe work environments;
  • Opportunities for advancement.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Competent and proficient operation of the following: excavator (60K LB and up), front end loader (3CY and up), articulating dump truck (25CY and up), bulldozer (150HP and up), motor grader, soil compactor, articulating water truck, compact loader, compact excavator, and other construction equipment.  Minimum of 5-years of experience operating this type of equipment;
  • Operating machinery like the following: backhoe, front end loader, excavator, bulldozer, track-hoe, and compactor;
  • Operates a heavy-duty forklift as required;
  • Assures unit is never operated in an unsafe manner or in a manner which is inconsistent with Standard Operating Procedures;
  • Complete and submits all associated paperwork as required for waste tracking.
  • Perform occasional labor work;
  • Ensuring that Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and acting in a safe manner at all times;
  • Other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

What does it take to work for Clean Harbors?

  • 3+ years of previous experience in operating heavy equipment required;
  • Previous experience operating Bull Dozers, and Excavators required;
  • Previous construction experience (Earthworks) preferred;
  • Must be able to travel 95-100% - Schedule 6 weeks traveling followed by 1-week home PAID;
  • Current valid driver license with an acceptable driving record required.

Physical Requirements

  • This position is physically demanding, and candidates must be able to navigate varying site conditions where steep slopes and rugged terrain may be present and walk several miles per day. Candidates must be able to lift 50 pounds unassisted and wear personal protective equipment that may restrict movement, when required.
  • Requires walking and standing for extended periods of time, sitting in equipment that may vibrate or jostle, climbing and working at heights, pulling/pushing, carrying, grasping, reaching, crawling, stooping, crouching, and balance. Requires speaking, listening, understanding, and writing English; color determination, depth perception, clarity of vision, and 20/20 eyesight (corrected or uncorrected).
  • Maintains a clean and organized work environment, and a clean personal appearance. Facial hair must always comply with the company’s respiratory protection facial hair policy.

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.  

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.  

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.  

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.  

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.  

#CH 

#LI-SE1


What Clean Harbors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Clean Harbors logo

About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US