1

Public Works Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator IV

Palatka, FL · On-site

$42K - $49K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 08/19/2026 General Description This is a full-time, hourly position that ... Needs minimal supervision and able to perform all Maintenance Worker, Equipment Operator I ...

Showing results 21-40

Public Works Equipment Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do public works equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for public works equipment operator 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 is the difference between Public Works Equipment Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectPublic Works Equipment OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, equipment operation certificationsDriver's license, specialized heavy machinery certifications
Work EnvironmentPublic works sites, roads, parks, municipal projectsConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer & IndustryMunicipal government, public sectorConstruction companies, private sector
Search & ComparisonOften compared for equipment operation roles in public worksMore focused on construction and industrial projects

Public Works Equipment Operators primarily work for municipal agencies maintaining public infrastructure, while Heavy Equipment Operators work in construction or industrial settings. Both roles require similar certifications and involve operating large machinery, but their work environments and employers differ.

What cities are hiring for Public Works Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Public Works Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Public Works Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Works Equipment Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Public Works Equipment Operator jobs?

For Public Works Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Public Works Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Public Works Heavy Equipment Operator

Colonial Heights, VA

$39K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description All applications received during the recruitment period will be forwarded to the hiring department for review and consideration. ** Open Until Filled. ** Public Works Heavy Equipment Operator: Operates heavy equipment, vehicles, and other related equipment.

Examples of Duties Operates heavy and light equipment, vehicles, and other specialized equipment to construct, maintain, and repair streets, roadways, drainage systems, and water/wastewater facilities. Removes blockages and debris from streets and roadways. Excavates water and sewer lines.

Digs trenches for line installation. Performs landscaping duties as required. Addresses public inquiries.

Other duties as assigned. Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent and three to less than five years directly related experience or, Two years of college or Associate's Degree and less than two years directly related experience Must possess appropriate class Commercial Drivers License Physical Demands & Work Environment The work requires considerable and strenuous physical exertion such as frequent climbing, lifting of objects weighing in excess of 74 pounds, moving in areas of difficult or dangerous access. The work environment involves high risks with exposure to potentially dangerous situations or unusual environmental stress that require a range of safety and other precautions.

Benefits include Health Insurance (Anthem), Virginia Retirement System, Group Life Insurance, and Short-Term Disability coverage. This is a full-time position with 13 paid holidays each year. The City is an Equal Opportunity Employer.