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Small Equipment Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Nucor

Small Equipment Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

$70K/yr

Minimum 1 year of small equipment operation experience - preferably in scrap metal, construction, or manufacturing * Comfortable operating forklifts, skid steers, and similar equipment safely * Solid ...

Nucor

Small Equipment Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

$70K/yr

Minimum 1 year of small equipment operation experience - preferably in scrap metal, construction, or manufacturing * Comfortable operating forklifts, skid steers, and similar equipment safely * Solid ...

Waste Management

Small Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Job Summary Operates one or two pieces of equipment including but not limited to baler, front-end loader, bobcat, candensifier or forklift to transport or bind paper or other loose materials to ...

Waste Management

Small Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Job Summary Operates one or two pieces of equipment including but not limited to baler, front-end loader, bobcat, candensifier or forklift to transport or bind paper or other loose materials to ...

Waste Management

Small Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Job Summary Operates one or two pieces of equipment including but not limited to baler, front-end loader, bobcat, candensifier or forklift to transport or bind paper or other loose materials to ...

Waste Management

Small Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Job Summary Operates one or two pieces of equipment including but not limited to baler, front-end loader, bobcat, candensifier or forklift to transport or bind paper or other loose materials to ...

McDonald's

Small Equipment Technician

Lake City, FL · On-site

$21/hr

This job posting is for a position in a restaurant owned and operated by an independent franchisee ... The small equipment technician at a McDonald's restaurant organization is responsible for ...

McDonald's

Small Equipment Technician

Macclenny, FL · On-site

$21/hr

This job posting is for a position in a restaurant owned and operated by an independent franchisee ... The small equipment technician at a McDonald's restaurant organization is responsible for ...

McDonald's

Small Equipment Technician

Live Oak, FL · On-site

$21/hr

This job posting is for a position in a restaurant owned and operated by an independent franchisee ... The small equipment technician at a McDonald's restaurant organization is responsible for ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL

$70K/yr

Operate small equipment including forklifts, skid steers, and similar machines * Load scrap ... Comfortable operating forklifts, skid steers, and similar equipment safely * Solid understanding of ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$70K/yr

Operate small equipment including forklifts, skid steers, and similar machines * Load scrap ... Comfortable operating forklifts, skid steers, and similar equipment safely * Solid understanding of ...

BrightView

Golf Equipment Operator

Fort Pierce, FL · On-site

The Equipment Operator maintains the grounds of golf courses by performing some or all of the following duties: mowing turf areas, operating a gas-powered blower, and picking up leaves and trash.

Leon County Government

Equipment Operator

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$37K - $61K/yr

... operating various light to medium public works automotive equipment such as a front-end loader ... Operates various small equipment such as chainsaws, vibroplate packers, blowers, weed eaters, push ...

Leon County, FL

Equipment Operator

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$37K - $61K/yr

... operating various light to medium public works automotive equipment such as a front-end loader ... Operates various small equipment such as chainsaws, vibroplate packers, blowers, weed eaters, push ...

BrightView

Equipment Operator

Sanford, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate ... Though we're the nation's leading landscape company, we maintain a small company feel and ...

BrightView Landscapes

Equipment Operator

Sanford, FL · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate ... Though we're the nation's leading landscape company, we maintain a small company feel and ...

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Opa Locka, FL · On-site

$77K/yr

Operate forklifts, skid steers, or other small equipment as needed * Communicate with teammates via ... Strong knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles, hazards, and safety precautions

Nucor

Heavy Equipment Operator

Opa Locka, FL

$77K/yr

Operate forklifts, skid steers, or other small equipment as needed * Communicate with teammates via ... Strong knowledge of heavy equipment operating principles, hazards, and safety precautions

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All JobsSmall Equipment Operator JobsSmall Equipment Operator Jobs in Florida

Small Equipment Operator information

See Florida salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do small equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for small equipment operator in Florida is $16.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a small equipment operator?

Small Equipment Operators are skilled workers who operate a variety of compact machinery, such as skid steers, mini-excavators, forklifts, and trenchers, typically used for construction, landscaping, maintenance, or utility work. They are responsible for safely handling equipment, performing routine inspections, and assisting with job site tasks that require specialized machinery. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential for this role, and operators often work outdoors in various weather conditions.

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

To thrive as a Small Equipment Operator, you need hands-on experience with machinery such as skid steers, forklifts, or compact loaders, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with maintenance checklists, safety protocols, and equipment control systems is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help operators stand out on the job site. These skills ensure safe, efficient equipment operation and contribute to overall productivity and workplace safety.

What are some common challenges faced by small equipment operators on construction sites?

Small Equipment Operators often navigate tight spaces and work alongside other teams, which requires careful coordination and communication. Adjusting to varying site conditions, such as uneven terrain or changing weather, can also pose challenges for safe and efficient equipment operation. Additionally, operators must stay vigilant about maintenance and safety checks to prevent breakdowns or accidents. Collaborating effectively with site supervisors and other crew members is essential to ensure tasks are completed on schedule.

What are popular job titles related to Small Equipment Operator jobs in Florida?

For Small Equipment Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Small Equipment Operator jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Equipment Operator jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Small Equipment Operator jobs in FL?

For Small Equipment Operator jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Small Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Equipment Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,947 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Small Equipment Operator

Nucor

Orlando, FL • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Nucor rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 139 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

199th of 540 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Details

Division: Trademark Metals Recycling LLC

Location: Orlando, FL, United States  

Other Available Locations: N/A

Work Hard. Get Paid Weekly. Build a Real Career.

If you like getting behind the controls and doing work that actually moves things - this is the job for you. At Trademark Metals Recycling, Equipment Operators are at the heart of the yard. You'll run forklifts, skid steers, and more to keep materials moving and production humming. We'll train the right person - and back you with Nucor's weekly pay, real bonuses, and benefits that kick in at 30 days. This isn't just a job. It's a career you can build on.

Top Benefits - Why You'll Want to Work Here

Average annual earnings: $70,000+
(Includes base pay, weekly overtime opportunities, and production bonuses)

  • Weekly production bonus - unlimited earning potential
  • Paid training - we'll teach you what you need to succeed
  • Fast benefits - medical, dental, & vision after just 30 days
  • Profit sharing - yearly payout averaging ~17% of annual pay
  • 401(k) match - company matches 17% of your contributions
  • Employee stock purchase plan - company matches 10%
  • Paid vacation - 40 hours after 6 months
  • Parental leave
  • Tuition reimbursement - up to $5,250 per year
  • Company-paid life & disability insurance
  • Clear career paths - promote from within, no cap on growth

Go to www.Nucor.com/benefits to learn more!  

Daily Job Duties - What You'll Do

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

  • Follow all company and OSHA safety procedures - attend safety meetings and look out for yourself and your teammates
  • Operate small equipment including forklifts, skid steers, and similar machines
  • Load scrap material onto shredder feed conveyors, push shred piles, move material throughout the yard, and load trucks and railcars
  • Perform daily equipment inspections and report any defects or needed repairs to your supervisor
  • Keep the yard clear of debris and maintain a clean, safe work environment
  • Pitch in on general labor duties - sweeping, shoveling, and clean-up anywhere in the yard
  • Communicate over radio with teammates for traffic coordination, production updates, and safety
  • Cross-train in other positions and help out wherever the team needs you

You'll be hands-on from day one - running equipment and keeping the yard productive. The harder you work, the more you earn. 1 year of small equipment experience preferred - but we train the right people.

Job Requirements - What We're Looking For:
  • Minimum 1 year of small equipment operation experience - preferably in scrap metal, construction, or manufacturing
  • Comfortable operating forklifts, skid steers, and similar equipment safely
  • Solid understanding of equipment operating principles, hazards, and safety precautions
  • Dependable - shows up on time and ready to work every shift
  • Able to work independently and adapt to changing priorities without constant supervision
  • Able to stand or walk for most of the shift (up to 12 hours)
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Comfortable working outdoors in heat and all weather conditions
  • Flexible to work overtime, evenings, weekends, and holidays when needed
  • Bilingual preferred
  • Candidates within 50 miles of location preferred
  • Must pass a hair drug test and background check
About Us - Why Trademark Metals Recycling & Nucor?

Nucor is a Fortune 150 company and North America's leader in steel manufacturing and recycling. We believe in:

  • Safety first-always
  • Pay for performance
  • Promoting from within
  • Long-term stability
  • Taking care of our people and communities

If you want steady work, strong weekly pay, real benefits from day one, and a career you can build-not just a paycheck-apply today. We want you on our team.

Our Commitment to a Drug-Free Workplace

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a pre-employment drug screening, which includes both urine and hair follicle testing. 

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer - M/F/Disabled/Vets - and a drug - free workplace

What Nucor employees say

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Benefits

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Workplace

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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

Social media

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