1

Small Equipment Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... and other small equipment and tools to maintain equipment and operations. * Performs routine ...

Equipment Operator

Kasson, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... and other small equipment and tools to maintain equipment and operations. * Performs routine ...

Equipment Operator

Kasson, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... and other small equipment and tools to maintain equipment and operations. * Performs routine ...

Equipment Operator

Hayfield, MN · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for ... and other small equipment and tools to maintain equipment and operations. * Performs routine ...

... and small equipment tasks, which may include herbicide application, brush clearing, or weed ... Demonstrated experience and confidence operating tractors for extended mowing assignments on large ...

This role will operate a range of large and small equipment across a variety of ecological ... Support non-operating duties as needed during project installation or downtime. * Travel frequently ...

Equipment Operator

MN · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

They started their own small trucking company in the early 1980's and have been growing ever since ... This equipment provides each individual operator the capability of meticulous work accuracy within ...

Label Works, a division of Taylor Corporation, is seeking an Equipment Operator in our North ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Folder Works, a division of Taylor Corporation, is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Folder Works, a division of Taylor Corporation, is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Navitor Midwest, a division of Taylor Corporation, is looking for a new Equipment Operator to join ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Label Works, a division of Taylor Corporation, is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator in our North Mankato-MN facility. Work ... S. states and multiple countries, Taylor serves businesses and distributors both large and small.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Small Equipment Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$22

$31

How much do small equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for small equipment operator in Minnesota is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $25.43 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 MN?

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

Infographic showing various Small Equipment Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,802 per year, or $22 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Return

Hayfield, MN • On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Equipment Operator is a critical position in Return's fertilizer and compost production operations.  The Equipment Operator operates a variety of medium to heavy duty equipment and trucks used for fertilizer application, compost production, storage, management and maintenance. May operate a variety of hand and power tools to maintain Return equipment, Return facilities, and job sites.
 

ABOUT RETURN

We're a leader in Good-for-the-Earth Growing Supplies that cares deeply about our people, planet, and soil. We provide a viable alternative to synthetic growing products that encourage soil regeneration to help grow healthier food, people, and planet. Be part of a team transforming agriculture with regenerative, good-for-the-earth growing solutions

YOUR SCHEDULE 

Monday–Friday schedule with 40–50 hours/week. Opportunity for paid overtime and potential weekend shifts.


COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Hourly pay rate is based on experience, between $18.00 and $24.00 per hour. After 60 days of employment, you are eligible for company health benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as 401k, paid time off, and paid company holidays.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES 

As an Equipment Operator, you'll play a vital part in our production of high-quality, regenerative fertilizer and compost. Your responsibilities include:
 

  • Operates equipment of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling and unloading of various equipment, materials and supplies.
  • Operates conveyors, skid steers, mowers, compost turners, tractors, floaters, trucks and construction or power equipment, such as mechanized broom, grapple, dump truck, snow-plow, front-end loader, and other equipment and tools to maintain company property and equipment.
  • Operates welders, gas torches, chop saws, grinders, drills, drill presses, impact wrenches, presses and other small equipment and tools to maintain equipment and operations.
  • Performs routine inspection and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment and refers defects or repairs to the supervisor; cleans equipment.
  • Assists in the installing and maintenance of traffic control devices.
  • Cuts trees and brush, and remove trees and weeds.
  • Controls traffic at work sites by flagging to guide traffic through work areas, as required or assigned.
  • Plows snow. Fixes Driveways and roads.
  • Performs a variety of tasks involving strenuous manual labor.
  • Maintains a clean job site: picks up all tools and equipment and secures job site each day to eliminate potential hazards.
  • Performs materials handling and storage.
  • Assists in training lower-level employees performing the maintenance and repair duties as required or assigned.
  • Performs all duties in conformance to appropriate safety and security standards.
  • Properly follows company and OSHA safety procedures. Ensures that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed. Brings problems to the attention of the supervisor, manager or HR manager.
  • Perform any other tasks assigned to support and improve the overall team operations.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.
  • Two to four years of experience involving the use of medium and heavy equipment, two of which must have been related to construction, agricultural or fertilizer application.
  • Valid Minnesota Driver’s License; CDL License preferred.
  • Proficient with iPhone and or Android email, messaging and navigation applications.

REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent.

Two to four years of experience involving the use of medium and heavy equipment, two of which must have been related to construction, agricultural or fertilizer application.

Valid Minnesota Driver’s License; CDL License preferred.

Proficient with iPhone and or Android email, messaging and navigation applications.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions including extreme heat and cold. The employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is frequently exposed to wet or humid conditions and vibration. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, dust, and risks of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk and hear. The employee is constantly required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, balancing, crawling, and climbing all day.

The employee must frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. 

EEO Statement

Return is an equal opportunity employer. We dig in to cultivate a healthy environment, at work and beyond, where all people can bloom—regardless of similarities, differences, or what's growing in their garden. We’re rooted in the idea that a diverse workforce, made up of various perspectives, will help us grow as individuals, and as a team. We hope you’ll share your unique variety to help breathe new life into our selves, soil, food and planet.

Powered by JazzHR

ygRiZXUVby