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Small Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke

Small Equipment Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

Small Equipment Operators are responsible for operating equipment including, but not limited to, paper balers, bobcats, and forklifts to transport or bind paper or loose materials to facilitate ...

Rumpke

Small Equipment Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site

Small Equipment Operators are responsible for operating equipment including, but not limited to, paper balers, bobcats, and forklifts to transport or bind paper or loose materials to facilitate ...

Waste Management

Small Equipment Operator

Spokane, WA · On-site

$21/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

Spokane, WA · On-site

$21/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 ...

Jennmar

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Columbus, OH

$15.50 - $19/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Jennmar

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Alliance, OH

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Jennmar

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Elyria, OH

$15 - $18.50/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Jennmar

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Alliance, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Jennmar

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Akron, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

Jennmar

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator

Medina, OH

$14.75 - $18/hr

Flex Laborer/ Small Equipment Operator Equipment Operator, Flex Labor & Rail Yard Worker We are seeking motivated individuals for full-time positions involving tolight equipment operation, labor, and ...

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How much do small equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for small equipment operator in the United States is $22.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Small Equipment Operators?

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, and why are they important?

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.
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Small Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 52% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,765 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Small Equipment Operator

Small Equipment Operator

Rumpke

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Rumpke rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 71 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.
When you join Rumpke, you'll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.
This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!
Small Equipment Operators are responsible for operating equipment including, but not limited to, paper balers, bobcats, and forklifts to transport or bind paper or loose materials to facilitate handling as well as load or unload materials into trailers and/or railcars.
Shift: 6:00am - 8:00pm M-F and 3:30pm - 12:30am, M-F
Responsibilities of Position:
  • Perform safe driving practices while transporting, loading, and unloading loose or baled materials and always operate equipment in a safe manner in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and Company policies
  • Safely stack baled material in a manner that does not endanger personnel, equipment, or materials
  • Organize and secure the stored materials in accordance with policy
  • Conduct pre-trip/post-trip inspections on equipment and complete necessary forms
  • Perform routine maintenance on equipment, (i.e., lubricating, fueling, and cleaning equipment)
  • Monitor for signs of unacceptable material
  • Weigh, tag, log, and prepare baled materials for transport
  • Professionally interact with internal and external customers
  • Clean waste from equipment body and wheels throughout the day
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibility:
  • This position will not manage employees

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:
  • Ability to maneuver equipment through tight areas with high equipment and pedestrian traffic
  • Ability to pass a written and operational test to be certified to operate a forklift and bobcat
  • Good verbal communication skills to be able to communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external customers
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language well enough to communicate, understand, and respond to questions, directions, traffic signs, signals, and safety training

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:
  • Previous experience operating equipment preferred

Physical Requirements in a Regular Workday:
  • Continuously lifting/carrying a max of 10 lbs
  • Frequently lifting/carrying a max of 35 lbs
  • Occasionally lifting/carrying a max of 50 lbs
  • Rarely lifting/carrying a max of 100 lbs
  • Occasionally pushing/pulling a max of 50 lbs
  • Rarely pushing/pulling a max of 100 lbs
  • Continuously working outside in changing temperatures, wet/humid conditions
  • Continuously working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter
  • Continuously stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling
  • Continuously climbing and/or balancing
  • Continuously sitting/standing/walking

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:
  • Possible exposure to high traffic conditions and/or tight driving areas
  • Exposure to residential and commercial waste
  • Ability to travel between offices, as required
  • Ability to work flexible hours; expected to work nights and weekends as needed
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Valid driver's license (if applicable)
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment testing
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.
Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke's policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Rumpke

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rumpke, centered in Cincinnati, OH, US, is a leading environmental solutions provider serving the waste and recycling industry. The company, with its official website at rumpke.com, is established on the principle of providing excellent customer service alongside innovative and sustainable solutions. Rumpke offers a wide array of services, including residential, commercial, and industrial waste collections, in addition to recycling programs and landfilling services. The company was founded in 1932 by William F. Rumpke, initially as a junkyard, but evolved over time into one of the most trusted waste management providers.

Industry

Construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cincinnati, OH, US

Year founded

1932

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