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Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

The Heavy Equipment Operator will assist in the clearing and maintenance of our nation's Power Grid. This position works at various locations. The position may also be required to travel to another ...

Candidate must have experience operating a bulldozer to fine grade. * Experience on multiple types of heavy equipment a plus. * Must have good work ethic and be dependable. * Must be able to work ...

Water Management has some vacancies for a Heavy Equipment Operators (HEO) within the Water & Sewer Maintenance Division. HEOs, no matter where they are assigned, are expected to operate specialized ...

Showing results 21-40

Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$23

$32

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

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary heavy equipment operator in Raleigh, NC is $23.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $26.15 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,952 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Pike Corporation

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description


The Heavy Equipment Operator will assist in the clearing and maintenance of our nation's Power Grid. This position works at various locations. The position may also be required to travel to another state depending on customer demands.
Essential Functions:
  • Work safely while performing civil, matting, or forestry related clearance work.
  • Maintain company vehicles, equipment, and tools in good working order.
  • Able to perform rigorous physical labor.
  • Understand proper use of company radio.
  • Understand operation of heavy equipment.
  • Understand the proper use and maintenance of hand tools.
  • Capable of receiving and following directions.
  • Capable of learning basic knowledge of materials used in line work.
  • Possess a basic knowledge of materials used in line work.
  • Capable of working at heights and/or confined spaces.
  • Understand flag and tag procedures.
  • Capable of properly inspecting PPE (personnel protective equipment).
  • Understand when to wear personnel protective equipment.
  • Able to identify different types of materials used in line work.
  • Must be able to work outside, frequently in inclement weather.
  • Does all other related work as required to complete the job.

Minimum Requirements:
  • 3+ years of minimum experience operating equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, or forestry equipment such as logging, mulching, or tree trimming.
  • Able to read and communicate effectively in English.
  • Bilingual (Spanish / English) a plus.
  • Able to travel long distances on short notice, when required.
  • Readily join storm restoration efforts in times of need.
  • Able to work for extended periods in various locations, when required.
  • Able to lift in excess of 50 lbs.
  • Able to properly inspect rubber goods and PPE.
  • Willing to work over-time when requested.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Other Requirements:
  • Able to manage multiple tasks and provide leadership to other team members.
  • Must be able to follow Company safety rules and all other Company policies.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to fingers, handle to feel; and reach with hands and arms.
Work Environment:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud. This position is performed in outside weather conditions.
Competencies:
  • Team-Oriented
  • Self-Motivated
  • Customer Service Focused
  • Ethical and Honest
  • Responsible
  • Trustworthy
  • Ethical
  • Honest
  • Punctual
  • Excellent communication skills

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disabled
Burford's Construction is a Non-Union Company
NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as requested to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
About Us
Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry throughout the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Western United States. With a great team of qualified professionals, Burford's Construction can serve all project needs.
Those services include:
  • Vegetation Maintenance
  • New ROW Clearing
  • ROW Reclamation/Widening
  • Erosion Control
  • Access Matting
  • Civil/Site Grading AND Many More!

We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across our service territory in Transmission, Distribution, and Generation. It is our belief that our work entails a true partnership with our clients to consistently exceed expectations. Our company culture and core values of safety for all, environmental stewardship, diversity and inclusion, customer service, and productivity are integral in every partnership.
About the Team
Burford's Construction is a leading provider of services in the electric utility industry throughout the Southeastern, Midwestern, and Western United States. With a great team of qualified professionals, Burford's Construction can serve all project needs.
Those services include:
  • Vegetation Maintenance
  • New ROW Clearing
  • ROW Reclamation/Widening
  • Erosion Control
  • Access Matting
  • Civil/Site Grading AND Many More!

We offer these services as turnkey support to customers across our service territory in Transmission, Distribution, and Generation. It is our belief that our work entails a true partnership with our clients to consistently exceed expectations. Our company culture and core values of safety for all, environmental stewardship, diversity and inclusion, customer service, and productivity are integral in every partnership.