1

Sr Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Equipment Operator

Nantucket, MA ยท On-site

$34.03 - $42.33/hr

Senior Equipment Operator is responsible for the performance of a wide range of skilled manual work including reporting equipment repairs, operation of heavy equipment and processing of paperwork to ...

Senior Equipment Operator

Pocatello, ID

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

The Senior Equipment Operator is a fully functioning journey level position performing equipment operation and maintenance duties, operating all equipment in an assigned Department. This position is ...

Equipment Operator

Auburn, CA ยท On-site

$30.55 - $38.14/hr

Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the entry level. This class is distinguished from the Senior Equipment Operator in that the latter performs ...

Sr Equipment Operator

Oklahoma City, OK

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Company and governmental operating/safety procedures * Heavy Equipment Operation Demonstrated ability to read and interpret bill of materials, materials specifications, diagrams, dials, gauges, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Sr Equipment Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do sr equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for sr 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Equipment Operator, and why are they important?

A Sr Equipment Operator needs extensive experience operating heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and safety systems, as well as certifications like OSHA or NCCCO, are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators excel in challenging environments. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, workplace safety, and the successful completion of complex construction or industrial projects.

What jobs will boom in 2026?

The demand for equipment operators, including crane, bulldozer, and excavator operators, is expected to grow due to infrastructure development and construction projects. Skills in operating heavy machinery, safety certifications, and experience with modern equipment will be valuable in this expanding field.

What are some common challenges faced by a Sr Equipment Operator, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Sr Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as operating complex machinery in varying weather conditions, maintaining safety protocols, and minimizing equipment downtime. Addressing these challenges involves staying up-to-date with regular training, conducting thorough pre-operation inspections, and communicating closely with team members and site supervisors. Building strong situational awareness and proactively reporting any issues can also help ensure smooth operations and a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Sr Equipment Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectSr Equipment OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsValid certifications, experience, possibly specialized trainingBasic certifications, entry-level experience
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial facilities, heavy machineryConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, mining, oil & gas, infrastructure projectsConstruction, manufacturing, warehousing
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding advanced roles, career progressionEntry-level position details, job requirements

The main difference between a Sr Equipment Operator and an Equipment Operator lies in experience, certifications, and responsibilities. A Sr Equipment Operator typically has more years of experience, specialized training, and handles more complex tasks. They often supervise or assist less experienced operators. Both roles work in similar environments like construction and industrial sites, but the senior role involves greater expertise and leadership. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and employers align expectations and qualifications effectively.

Can you make 100k as a heavy equipment operator?

Senior equipment operators can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries or locations. Factors such as certifications, union membership, and overtime can also influence earning potential.

What are Sr Equipment Operators?

Senior Equipment Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment, often in industries like construction, mining, or manufacturing. They typically have several years of experience and are proficient in handling complex equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, or excavators. In addition to operating machines, Sr Equipment Operators may train junior staff, perform routine maintenance, and ensure all operations comply with safety regulations. Their expertise helps ensure that projects are completed efficiently and safely.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2,000 a day typically involve high-level skills, specialized expertise, or significant responsibility, such as senior equipment operators working in large-scale construction, oil and gas industries, or heavy machinery management. These roles often require extensive experience, certifications, and the ability to operate complex equipment in demanding environments.

What is the highest paid equipment operator job?

The highest paid equipment operator roles are often specialized positions such as crane or heavy haul equipment operators, which require advanced certifications and experience. These roles typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with some earning over $70,000 annually depending on location and industry sector.
More about Sr Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Sr Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Sr Equipment Operator job openings:
What states have the most Sr Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Sr Equipment Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Sr Equipment Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Equipment Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Sr Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Senior Heavy Equipment Operator

Senior Heavy Equipment Operator

Turner Mining Group

Soda Springs, ID โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Senior Equipment Operator

Reports to: Foreman - Turner Mining Group

Job Description:

The Senior Equipment Operator is the most skilled mining operator position within Turner Mining Group. This role will oversee operational quality and efficiency as a strong field leader. The successful candidate must live the Turner Values and be an outward example to others. This position must demonstrate a strong commitment to "Safe Production" through decision making, priorities, and client relations.

Objectives and Contributions:

The Senior Equipment Operator is focused on key aspects that drive communication and safe production while maintaining a high level of efficiency, proactive training metrics, and preventative maintenance awareness requirements. The Senior Operator demonstrates safety ownership at a personal level and holds other crew members to the same high standard. The Senior Equipment Operator will train and develop into the Lead Equipment Operator job scope while the Lead Equipment operator is filling in for supervisory duties.

  • Operates mobile equipment as assigned every day based on production needs
  • Work with employees to ensure a high level of accuracy and engagement on hazard identification and control
  • Engage crews and leadership to define processes that motivate working towards common goals
  • Assist with MSHA regulatory training and verify compliance to standards
  • Live the values as part of a visible daily decision-making process
  • Assist with training efforts to grow other operators
  • Assist with training proficiency audits
  • Assist with client specific safety needs as required
  • Support risk assessment processes at various levels of the organization
  • Holds themselves and others accountable for acting like an owner (taking care of equipment, not wasting resources, using time wisely, and being accountable for conditions and behaviors)
  • Maintains a high standard of housekeeping (machine and work areas)

Culture and Communication:

  • Can effectively communicate in English (multi-lingual preferred)
  • Assist with daily lineout meetings and monthly safety topic communications
  • Assist with site communication programs and processes to ensure timely, specific, and value-added information
  • Assist with site and project leaders to identify areas of improvement
  • Work with crews to support proactive near miss reporting
  • Leads by example (walks the talk)

Systems:

  • Ability to perform quality pre-operation machine inspections (Based on mobile equipment physical demands analysis)
  • Able to perform quality workplace examination (per MSHA requirements)
  • Ability to use electronic filing and reporting systems
  • Accurately documents 5000-23 and training checklist requirements
  • Other regulatory & internal / external forms as required

Travel and New Site Development:

  • Maintains a valid and insurable driving license
  • Available to travel on short notice to support timelines and production requirements at existing sites (Preferred)

Supervisory / Leadership Duties

  • Learn and assist with key performance indicators, company targets, and daily progress reporting
  • Assist in employee timekeeping and production reports
  • Maintains compliance to Turner Mining Group Policies and Procedures including Fit for Duty requirements
  • Upholds Code of Conduct requirements
  • Spend time with maintenance, and site supervision to build relationships and develop trust
  • Assist with development / implement processes to reduce and eliminate repeat incidents

Time and Interactions:

  • The Senior Equipment Operator must be flexible on shift schedules (days and nights) to assist with training and production needs
  • The Senior Equipment Operator will be self-starting, motivated, with a strong desire to be part of a team and to influence improvement. Communication is also critical to keep leadership and site-based personnel in the loop of successes, challenges, and any additional support that may be required
  • Interacts with client supervision to discuss production challenges, targets, and collaboration between teams
  • Excellent time management skills

Qualifications:

  • Smart phone navigation
  • Willingness and ability to adhere to OSHA / MSHA regulatory requirements
  • 3-5 years' experience in mining / heavy industry preferred
  • Working knowledge of safety systems and processes
  • Appropriate attention to detail required
  • Strong communication skills
  • Strong morals and values
  • Exemplary attendance record
  • Exemplary safety and disciplinary record
  • Willingness to be flexible on daily job duty requirements
  • Maintains a positive outspoken learning attitude
  • The Senior Equipment Operator must pass and maintain Turner Mining Group mobile equipment skills qualifications on each piece of the following equipment:
    • Production excavator,
  • Production loader,
  • Support excavator,
  • Dozer
  • Support loader,
  • Grader
  • Water truck,
  • Haulage truck
  • In addition to the job skills above, there may be requirements for manual tasks to be completed to meet other business needs. Operators in any job duty classification may be required to participate in these additional tasks.

Other Duties:

Physical Demands:

The physical requirements listed below are essential functions of this position and must be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation:

  • Weight Requirement: Ability to meet equipment manufacturer's safety requirements, including a body weight under 330 pounds.
  • Mobility & Posture: Ability to kneel, crouch, squat, climb stairs, and climb ladders repeatedly.
  • Reaching & Movement: Ability to reach forward and overhead, and to perform sustained or repetitive movements of the neck, hands, wrists, and ankles/feet.
  • Strength & Endurance: Ability to push and pull with a force of at least 55 pounds.
    • Ability to lift, carry, and set down objects weighing up to 85 pounds.
  • Ability to lift and carry objects overhead weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to lift and move items from floor level to waist, shoulder, and overhead levels.
  • Ability to carry weights over distances of at least 20 feet.
  • Repetition & Duration: Ability to perform the above motions multiple times in succession and sustain activity for extended periods.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME