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Travel Heavy Equipment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Loader Operator I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area Working Conditions: * This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types ...

Loader Operator I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Must remain alert to potential hazards associated with heavy equipment and other vehicles operated in their work area Working Conditions: * This position involves primarily outdoor work in all types ...

Mechanic

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$34.40 - $41.53/hr

Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all safety and ... At least (2) year experience as a crane mechanic in a diesel trucking or heavy equipment ...

Mechanic

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$34.40 - $41.53/hr

Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all safety and ... At least (2) year experience as a crane mechanic in a diesel trucking or heavy equipment ...

Mechanic

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$34.40 - $41.53/hr

Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all safety and ... At least (2) year experience as a crane mechanic in a diesel trucking or heavy equipment ...

... paving equipment, a strong commitment to safety and quality, and the flexibility to travel ... In infrastructure, we specialize in general heavy civil construction, underground utilities ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 7, 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 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 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 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 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.

How to become a traveling heavy equipment operator?

To become a traveling heavy equipment operator, you typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent, gain experience operating heavy machinery through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and equipment-specific licenses. Developing skills in equipment operation, safety procedures, and navigation is essential, and many employers prefer candidates willing to travel frequently for projects across different locations.

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 job categories do people searching Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Travel Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM 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:

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, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,400 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


TNT Crane & Rigging rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 178 rated vehicle equipment hire


Job description

RMS

Position: Heavy Lift Crane Operator

Location: Albuquerque, NM

Reports to: Branch Manager

RMS is looking to add experienced full-time heavy lift crane operator for a project in Santa Teresa, NM. The following are a list of requirements. You must meet all the requirements below to be considered for this position.

Experience operating the following crane:

  • Must have a current crane operating license (NCCCO) LBC.
  • Liebherr LR 1600 with Derrick Boom and Luffing Jib. Experience required 5 years.
  • Liebherr LR 1700 Main Boom.  Experience required 5 years.
  • Current New Mexico State License Conventional (Lattice Boom) Class I license preferred.
  • OSHA 10
  • Must be a member of the International Union Of Operating Engineers or join the union.

Compensation based on experience and 7 days a week Per Diem

Summary: Ensures safety first, along with safe lifting of the load, proper set-up of crane, while maintaining Customer focus. Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all safety and environmental policies while performing the job task.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate complex equipment safely and efficiently according to company safety and policies.
  • Completes Field Ticket and turn it into local branch office. If other chargeable equipment was utilized on the job, make sure to write it down on the Field Ticket.
  • Completes payroll book daily with the hours worked. Hours must be reported to the local branch office no later than 8:00 a.m. every Monday.
  • Periodically reviews assigned crane and other model cranes service and operation manuals.
  • Be able to read, interpret, and calculate the load percentage by utilizing the load charts of the crane’s owner and operation manual.
  • Be able to program the crane's computer in proper set-up mode, set-up crane on location in a safe and professional manner.
  • Understands and can perform proper rigging techniques to ensure safe lifting of the load.
  • Inspect crane and fill out daily and monthly inspection report before operating the vehicle. Turns in inspection report to the local branch office.
  • Performs other job duties as assigned.

Skills Required:

  • Good verbal and written communication skills to understand instructions, applicable safety regulations, and to maintain records.
  • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical problems.

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