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Travel Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Home every night, no travel Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities * Operate heavy equipment on an active site * Excavator, dozer, loader, backhoe, skid steer * Move, load, and grade dirt, rock ...

Home every night, no travel Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities * Operate heavy equipment on an active site * Excavator, dozer, loader, backhoe, skid steer * Move, load, and grade dirt, rock ...

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Travel Heavy Equipment Operator information

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$14

$23

$33

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for travel heavy equipment operator in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Travel Heavy Equipment Operator, you need proficiency in operating various heavy machinery, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with GPS systems, equipment maintenance tools, and safety protocols is typically required, along with certifications such as OSHA or NCCCO. Strong attention to detail, adaptability to different job sites, and effective communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently with diverse teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring job site safety, minimizing equipment downtime, and completing projects on schedule in varied locations.

What is the difference between Travel Heavy Equipment Operator vs Local Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectTravel Heavy Equipment OperatorLocal Heavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsOSHA, CDL (if required), equipment-specific licensesOSHA, equipment-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentVarious job sites across different locations, often remotePrimarily on-site at local projects or facilities
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, mining, oil & gas, infrastructure projectsConstruction, landscaping, infrastructure within a specific region
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap in credentials, work environment, and industrySimilar roles but focused locally

Travel Heavy Equipment Operators typically work across multiple locations, requiring flexibility and often holding certifications like OSHA and CDL. Local Heavy Equipment Operators work within a specific area, focusing on nearby projects. Both roles share similar skills and certifications but differ mainly in work location and travel requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by travel heavy equipment operators, and how can they be managed?

Travel Heavy Equipment Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to new job sites, working with unfamiliar teams, and adjusting to different equipment or site conditions. Managing these challenges requires strong communication skills, flexibility, and a commitment to safety protocols. Building rapport quickly with new coworkers and staying updated on equipment operation standards can help operators integrate smoothly and perform efficiently in diverse environments.

What is a travel heavy equipment operator?

Travel Heavy Equipment Operators are skilled professionals who operate large machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, and loaders at various job sites that require travel, often across different cities, states, or even countries. Their responsibilities include safely operating and maintaining equipment, following project specifications, and adhering to safety regulations. Because their work is needed in diverse locations, these operators must be willing to travel frequently and adapt to different job site conditions. This position is common in industries like construction, mining, and infrastructure development, where projects are spread out geographically.
More about Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Travel Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
What states have the most Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Travel Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Skillforce

Chester, VA • Remote

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Weekly pay, $24 to $28 an hour. Skillforce is hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator for construction work in Chesterfield and Blacksburg, VA. Monday through Friday, day shift. You will run equipment alongside civil and mechanical crews on an active industrial site. Ongoing project work, home every night, no travel.

Pay and Schedule

• $24 to $27 per hour, W-2

• Weekly pay

• Monday through Friday, day shift

• Full time, ongoing project work

• Home every night, no travel


Heavy Equipment Operator Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment on an active site

• Excavator, dozer, loader, backhoe, skid steer

• Move, load, and grade dirt, rock, and material

• Support civil and mechanical crews on site

• Daily walkaround checks and machine upkeep


Heavy Equipment Operator Qualifications

• 2 years minimum operating heavy equipment

• Able to name your machines and seat hours

• Valid driver's license and work authorization

• Must pass a drug screen and background check

• Industrial or utility site work a plus


Benefits

• Weekly pay

• Medical, dental, and vision available

• PTO and paid holidays

• 401(k)

• Referral bonus program


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About Skillforce

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With the most experienced individuals in the industry, Skillforce is the construction staffing firm employers and tradesmen can trust. Whether you're a construction specialist, craftsman, foreman, or project manager looking to hire new talent, Skillforce has the resources you need. Skillforce is a full-service labor contractor that provides guaranteed, reliable craftsmen to contractors who need them, where and when they need them, for as long as they need them. Founded in 2003, Skillforce was created as a response to the construction industry’s challenges with recruiting and hiring flexible, skilled craftsmen. Rob Cossaboon founded Skillforce with the goal of creating a strong construction staffing company that encompassed two main themes: creating a team environment with strong leadership, and a business culture that inspired employees to strive to be their best.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

2003

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