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Travel Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Walmart

Power Equipment Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$20.55 - $24.05/hr

Hourly Wage: $20.55 - $24.05 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly ...

City of Albuquerque

Solid Waste Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$42K - $44K/yr

Operate a variety of equipment, including rear loaders, roll-off trucks, sweepers, and transport ... Field and landfill environment; travel from site to site; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke ...

Mortenson

Operator

Los Lunas, NM

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

M. A. Mortenson Company

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ... operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and load charts * Ability to operate ...

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All JobsTravel Heavy Equipment Operator JobsTravel Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Travel Heavy Equipment Operator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$13

$22

$31

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for travel heavy equipment operator in Rio Rancho, NM is $22.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $25.34 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.
What are popular job titles related to Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Travel Heavy Equipment Operator job openings:
Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Travel Heavy Equipment Operator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,400 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - 100% Travel

Spriggs Excavation, Inc

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Job description

Job Title: Heavy Equipment Operator
This position is full time and 100% travel within the central United States.
Location: 100% Travel
Salary Range: $25.00-$30.00 DOE
Spriggs Excavation is recruiting for a full-time, 100% travel position. This role requires continuous travel to project sites across multiple states based on business needs and project schedules. Employees in this position should expect to be assigned to one location for an extended period-such as several months at a time-before transitioning to another project in a different state. For example, an assignment may begin in Texas, then move to Colorado, and later transition to New Mexico. Flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to work wherever projects are located are essential requirements of this role.
At Spriggs Excavation, Inc., we don't just dig the dirt-we redefine it. Our mission is to deliver top-notch results, safely, powered by our all-star team. With over 20 years of stellar performance, we've built a reputation for quality, reliability, and safety that's anything but ordinary. Operating across the Rocky Mountains to the Midwest, we leverage cutting-edge technology and seasoned expertise in mass excavation, renewable energy, electrical substations, remediation, and residential projects. Having moved over two million cubic yards of dirt in a single project, we demonstrate our ability to tackle even the most demanding assignments. We take pride in our diverse culture and core values of Safety, Teamwork, Professionalism, Accountability, and Integrity, which we live every day. These values guide our work and help us continue delivering exceptional results.
Description
Spriggs Excavation is a General Civil Contractor operating primarily in the Rocky Mountain, Western, and Midwest regions. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and an experienced team to specialize in electrical substation, renewable energy, and residential excavation projects. We have demonstrated our commitment to quality, performance, and safety with over 15 years of superior performance. We live our Core Values: Safety, Teamwork, Professionalism, Accountability, and Integrity.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Spriggs Excavation, Inc. has an excellent opportunity for an experienced operator to join our team of professionals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in heavy equipment operation, be safety focused, motivated, and driven. We are offering a competitive salary based on experience, along with an outstanding benefits package. This is the perfect opportunity to build a career at a thriving construction firm. Spriggs Excavation values individuals with a positive attitude, a good work ethic and a desire to be part of a great team.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Daily machine inspection, check fluids, wear parts, tires, glass, and general condition of the machinery assigned to use. Report issues and maintenance required immediately.
  • SAFELY and productively operate machinery assigned. Adapt to changing environment including traffic, soil conditions and weather.
  • Utilize GPS systems, read and understand grade stakes, hubs for grade control, and finishing.
  • Manage materials efficiently whether excavating, loading, placing materials, grading, or installing utilities.

Qualifications/Job Requirements
  • Must be willing to labor and help the crew.
  • 3 years' experience operating heavy earthmoving equipment (motor grader, scraper, dozer, excavator)
  • 1 year of industry specific related equipment operation experience.
  • Ability to interact effectively and professionally with all levels of employees, clients, contractors, and vendors etc.
  • Proficiency in spoken and written English is a mandatory requirement for this role, as it is essential for understanding work instructions, safety protocols, and participating in team communications.

What we Offer:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Company-paid life and AD&D insurance
  • Company-paid long-term disability insurance
  • Voluntary group life insurance
  • Supplemental insurance through AFLAC
  • Pet Insurance
  • Legal Insurance & ID Theft Protection
  • GSA Per Diem
  • Matched Retirement
  • Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Competitive Pay
  • 6 Paid Holidays
  • Bonus Program

Prior to your start date, we require successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check and drug test.

Apply