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Professional Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse Operator

Defuniak Springs, FL

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Professional Products is looking for a hard-working and detailed oriented person to fill the warehouse operator position in our warehouse in Defuniak Springs, FL. The warehouse operator is ...

Machine Operator

Salem, NH · On-site

$19/hr

Machine Operator Pay: $19/hr We are seeking a skilled, detailoriented Machine Operator to support efficient, highquality production in our manufacturing facility. This role involves setting up ...

Rework Operator

Salem, NH · On-site

$25/hr

Rework Operator Pay: 24.00 - $25.00 per hour Salem, NH manufacturing company has an immediate first shift opening for a rework operator experienced and certified with SMT and THT rework. Job Overview ...

Machine Operator

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Location: Merrimack, NH Pay: $20-$22/hr Machine Operator * Operate and monitor machinery to ensure efficient, accurate output. * Perform basic adjustments, quality checks, and routine equipment ...

CNC Router Operator

Belvidere, IL · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Professional Plastics is hiring an experienced CNC Machinist / CNC Operator to join our growing manufacturing team. If you have experience setting up and running CNC machines in a production ...

Water Plant Operator

Akron, OH · On-site

$52K - $62K/yr

Possession of a Class I Water Supply Professional Operators Certificate as issued by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency or must obtain within two years of employment. Possession of a valid ...

SMT Machine Operator Pay: $22/hr Requirements: Must be able to read, write and speak in English First shift positions in Salem, NH Mon - Fri, 6am - 2:30pm (Temp-hire) Job Overview We are seeking an ...

Senior Traffic Signal Technician

NC · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Professional Operator Training for Insulated Aerial Devices and Digger Derrick. * Experience identifying opportunities for and/or performing preventative maintenance on equipment and systems.

Showing results 21-40

Professional Operator information

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How much do professional operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional operator?

Professional Operators are skilled individuals responsible for controlling and monitoring machinery, equipment, or complex systems in industries such as manufacturing, transportation, or utilities. Their duties often include ensuring operational safety, maintaining equipment efficiency, and troubleshooting problems as they arise. Professional Operators must adhere to strict protocols and may be required to document procedures, perform routine maintenance, and collaborate with other team members to ensure smooth operations. The specific responsibilities can vary greatly depending on the industry and the type of equipment or systems involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional operator?

To thrive as a Professional Operator, you need a solid understanding of equipment operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, computerized control systems, and, in some cases, licenses such as a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set standout operators apart. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operations, reducing risks and maximizing productivity in technical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professional operators and how can they be addressed?

Professional Operators often manage complex machinery or systems and must maintain high levels of attention to detail to ensure safety and efficiency. Common challenges include adapting to rapidly changing technologies, troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, and working in shift-based or high-pressure environments. To address these challenges, operators benefit from continuous training, clear communication with team members, and proactive maintenance practices. Building strong problem-solving skills and staying updated with industry advancements can also aid in overcoming day-to-day obstacles.

What is the difference between Professional Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectProfessional OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsOften requires specialized certifications or licenses depending on industryTypically requires a standard operating license or certification
Work EnvironmentCan include industrial sites, construction, manufacturing, or specialized facilitiesPrimarily construction sites, factories, or outdoor work areas
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including manufacturing, construction, and energyCommonly used in construction, mining, and logistics

The main difference between a Professional Operator and an Equipment Operator lies in the level of certification and scope of work. Professional Operators often have specialized training and certifications, working in diverse industrial environments. Equipment Operators typically focus on operating specific machinery, mainly in construction or manufacturing settings. Both roles are essential, but Professional Operators usually require broader skills and credentials.

Which professional operator job pays the most?

Among professional operator roles, crane operators and heavy equipment operators tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $60,000 annually, especially with specialized certifications and experience. Roles in industrial, construction, or mining environments typically offer higher pay due to the technical skills and safety requirements involved.

What cities are hiring for Professional Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Operator jobs include:

Traveling Excavator Operator - Mining & Quarry Operations (Arizona)

Rock Pros USA

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description:

Rock Pros USA is seeking an experienced Traveling Excavator Operator to support our decorative landscape rock mining operations throughout Arizona.


This is a dedicated excavator position. Your primary responsibility is operating a hydraulic excavator to recover decorative boulders, rip rap, oversized rock, and blasted material while developing safe, productive quarry faces.


Success in this role requires excellent machine control, sound judgment, and the ability to recover valuable material while maintaining safe mining practices. Every cut, every bucket, and every decision impacts production, material quality, equipment longevity, and the safety of the crew.


We're looking for an operator who takes pride in precision, respects the equipment they operate, and understands that professional operators don't simply move rock—they recover valuable material efficiently while protecting both the machine and the mine.


Primary Responsibilities
  • Operate hydraulic excavators in active surface mining and quarry operations.
  • Recover decorative boulders while minimizing damage to saleable material.
  • Excavate and load blasted rock for processing.
  • Remove overburden to expose mineable material.
  • Recover rip rap and oversized rock for processing or sale.
  • Scale quarry walls and remove loose or unstable material to maintain safe working conditions.
  • Develop and maintain quarry benches, pit floors, and excavation areas.
  • Shape excavation areas to maximize safe and efficient material recovery.
  • Read changing ground conditions and adjust excavation techniques accordingly.
  • Work safely around loaders, haul trucks, crushers, and other heavy equipment.
  • Complete thorough pre-shift and post-shift inspections.
  • Maintain accurate inspection records and immediately report maintenance concerns.
  • Keep assigned equipment clean, organized, and operating at peak performance.
  • Travel to multiple Arizona quarry locations as operational needs require.
What We're Looking For


We're looking for an operator who treats equipment with professionalism and respect.


Our best operators perform complete walk-around inspections before every shift. They recognize unusual sounds, leaks, worn components, and changing machine performance before small issues become costly downtime. They understand that proper lubrication, cleanliness, preventive maintenance, and smooth operation are essential to maximizing equipment life and production.


They take pride in operating safely, protecting valuable decorative rock, producing quality work, and leaving the machine in excellent condition at the end of every shift.


If you believe the condition of your excavator reflects the professionalism of its operator, you'll fit in well at Rock Pros USA.

Requirements:
  • Minimum 5 years of experience operating hydraulic excavators in mining, quarry, aggregate, or heavy civil operations.
  • Demonstrated experience recovering blasted rock, decorative boulders, rip rap, and oversized material.
  • Experience removing overburden and developing quarry benches.
  • Ability to safely scale quarry walls and recognize changing ground conditions.
  • Strong understanding of excavation techniques and production mining practices.
  • Proven commitment to equipment care, preventive maintenance, and daily inspections.
  • Ability to identify and report mechanical concerns before they result in equipment failure.
  • Excellent safety record and commitment to MSHA standards.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • Willingness to travel throughout Arizona and work overtime as needed.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining strong communication with supervisors and fellow operators.