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Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Adams Contracting Inc

Equipment Operator

Clinton, TN · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

Adams Contracting LLC

Equipment Operator

Clinton, TN · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Adams Contracting, LLC is seeking a skilled Equipment Operator to support our Project Superintendent in delivering top-notch heavy, highway, and civil construction projects across Tennessee and ...

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All JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsTemporary Heavy Equipment Operator JobsTemporary Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$22

$32

How much do temporary heavy equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary heavy equipment operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $22.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary heavy equipment operator?

Temporary Heavy Equipment Operators are workers hired on a short-term basis to operate machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, or cranes at construction sites, municipal projects, or industrial facilities. Their main duties include moving earth, materials, or equipment, often to support construction or maintenance projects. They must follow safety protocols and may be responsible for basic maintenance of the equipment. Temporary positions are typically filled to meet seasonal demand, cover absences, or assist with special projects. While the role is temporary, it requires the same level of skill, training, and certification as a permanent operator.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator, you need experience operating machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, or loaders, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid equipment operator's license. Familiarity with safety regulations, equipment maintenance procedures, and often OSHA or other relevant certifications is important. Strong attention to detail, communication, and teamwork skills help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These abilities are essential to ensure equipment is used properly, minimize accidents, and support timely project completion.

What are the biggest challenges faced by temporary heavy equipment operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Temporary Heavy Equipment Operators often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new job sites, equipment models, and safety protocols. Since assignments may be short-term, operators must efficiently learn site-specific procedures and build rapport with permanent staff to ensure smooth operations. Staying proactive about communication, reviewing safety guidelines for each new environment, and maintaining flexibility are key strategies for managing these transitions and performing effectively in temporary roles.

What is the difference between Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator vs Permanent Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectTemporary Heavy Equipment OperatorPermanent Heavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, CDL often preferredOSHA certification, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, short-term projectsLong-term construction, infrastructure, or mining sites
Employment DurationTemporary, project-basedFull-time, ongoing employment
Job StabilityLess stable, contract-basedMore stable, benefits included

Temporary Heavy Equipment Operators work on short-term projects and often have contract-based employment, while Permanent Heavy Equipment Operators are employed full-time with ongoing benefits. Both roles require similar certifications and work in construction or industrial environments, but the employment duration and job stability differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,161 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Tradesmen International, Inc.

Kingston, TN • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
Tradesmen International is immediately hiring experienced Heavy Equipment Operators for projects located in the Kingston, TN area. This is a first shift opportunity, and the pay rate is up to $28/hour based on experience and skill level. If you are a Heavy Equipment Operator and want to work alongside other proven craftsmen who emphasize safety, productivity, and superior craftsmanship, this is your chance to advance your career!
Job Scope:
  • Operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, and other heavy machinery
  • Move, spread, and grade dirt across residential construction sites
  • Achieve proper elevations, slopes, and site grade according to plans
  • Understand grading plans, site layouts & grade stakes to ensure accurate earthwork

Requirements
  • 5+ years of heavy equipment operator experience with extensive experience in mass grading

Company Details
Tradesmen International not only offers consistent work, top pay, and employment opportunities, we also provide a benefits package that is among the best in the industry.
Our comprehensive benefits include:
  • Tradesmen+ Rewards Program - earn points for hours worked
  • Vacation Pay
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan

Tradesmen International is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability
"Be Safe" from fraud! Tradesmen International will never ask you to pay for certifications, equipment, or other "up front" costs as a condition of hire. Similarly, we do not request pictures of documents or IDs to private phone numbers or email addresses. If in doubt, please call or visit your closest Tradesmen office to verify the request.
Click here to visit Tradesmen's full website.
Location
US-TN-KINGSTON

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