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Transportation Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Equipment Operator

Great Bend, KS · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating heavy equipment used in underground utility and ... and transport equipment and materials as needed. · Follow all OSHA, DOT, and company safety ...

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Transportation Equipment Operator information

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$13

$22

$31

How much do transportation equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for transportation 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 is a transportation equipment operator?

Transportation Equipment Operators are professionals responsible for operating vehicles and machinery used to move people or goods. This can include driving trucks, buses, trains, or operating heavy equipment like forklifts or cranes. Their duties often involve ensuring the safe and efficient transport of cargo or passengers, performing routine inspections, and adhering to safety and traffic regulations. They play a crucial role in logistics, construction, and public transit systems. Training and licensing requirements may vary depending on the type of equipment operated.

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

To thrive as a Transportation Equipment Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), strong knowledge of vehicle operation, and familiarity with safety regulations. Experience with heavy machinery, GPS navigation systems, and routine vehicle maintenance is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure the safe and efficient transport of goods or materials while minimizing risk and adhering to regulations.

What are some common challenges transportation equipment operators face on the job, and how can they prepare for them?

Transportation Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to changing weather conditions, maintaining strict safety standards, and managing tight delivery schedules. To prepare, operators should stay up-to-date on best safety practices, regularly inspect their equipment, and communicate proactively with dispatchers and team members. Developing strong time management skills and being flexible when faced with unexpected delays can also help operators perform effectively and safely.

What is the difference between Transportation Equipment Operator vs Truck Driver?

AspectTransportation Equipment OperatorTruck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), safety trainingCDL, safety training
Work EnvironmentVarious vehicles including forklifts, cranes, or busesTrucks on highways and local roads
Industry UsagePublic transit, construction, logisticsFreight transportation, logistics
Common Search IntentOperational roles involving vehicle handlingLong-distance or local freight driving

Transportation Equipment Operators and Truck Drivers both require CDL licenses and safety training. However, Transportation Equipment Operators often handle a variety of vehicles like forklifts or cranes in different industries, while Truck Drivers primarily operate trucks for freight delivery. Their work environments and industry applications overlap but differ in vehicle types and job focus.

What cities are hiring for Transportation Equipment Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Transportation Equipment Operator job openings:

What states have the most Transportation Equipment Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Transportation Equipment Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Transportation Equipment Operator jobs?

For Transportation Equipment Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Transportation Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

PennDOT CDL Operator (Transportation Equipment Operator A)

Harrisburg, PA

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$45K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

THE POSITION Become a PennDOT CDL Operator with the Department of Transportation and help keep Pennsylvania roads in excellent condition. This position gives you the opportunity to work outdoors, use well-maintained equipment, and learn valuable skills. You will contribute to projects that support public safety and smooth travel for residents and visitors.

Step into a role where your work has a clear impact and your efforts truly matter. Check out this video for more information. DESCRIPTION OF WORK This position supports highway and bridge maintenance through skilled equipment operation and hands-on labor.

The role helps ensure safe, efficient transportation routes for the traveling public. As a PennDOT CDL Operator, you will perform the following duties: Equipment Operation: Operate trucks, loaders, and additional equipment as required License Compliance: Maintain the required CDL, perform daily equipment checks, and become certified on assigned machinery Traffic Control: Perform flagger duties as directed to support safe traffic movement Manual Labor Tasks: Use hand tools for tasks such as digging, cutting brush, patching surfaces, and repairing guiderails Equipment Care: Carry out adjustments, minor repairs, and preventative maintenance while keeping accurate equipment records Safety Awareness: Follow safety procedures, report incidents immediately, and observe conditions to prevent hazards Interested in learning more. Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch. Shifts will vary seasonally, due to weather, and based on operational needs. Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.

Salary: Selected candidates who are new to employment within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will begin employment at the starting annual salary of $45,888.00 (before taxes). You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: Successful completion of the Transportation Equipment Operator Trainee Program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or Graduation from a Commercial Driver's License Training School; or An equivalent combination of experience and training. Special Requirements: All permanent employees must obtain an active certification issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in the operation of heavy trucks and loaders, and two additional pieces of construction equipment, within the probationary period. All positions require possession of an active Pennsylvania Class A or B Commercial Driver's License or equivalent with the Air Brake Restriction (L) removed.

All positions require possession of an active Medical Examiner's Certificate in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Regulations. All employees must obtain an active Tank Vehicle Endorsement (N) during the probationary period and continuously maintain it while employed in this job. Employees may be required to obtain additional certifications issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation on assigned pieces of equipment.

Additional Requirements: This position is subject to Drug and Alcohol testing in accordance with Federal Regulations. You must be able to perform essential job functions. How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position.

Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted

Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position. All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only.

Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information. Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa.

C.S. 7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals). If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce.

The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787