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Traveling Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North Alabama Region to help crush and load material. Must have a working cell phone, good driving record and ...

SA Recycling

Travel Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Our Equipment Operator will travel with their own vehicle to various yards to support our North Alabama Region to help crush and load material. Must have a working cell phone, good driving record and ...

Native Land Co

Equipment Operator

Palmetto, FL · Remote

$25/hr

Equipment Operator Pay: $25.00 per hour We are currently seeking a reliable and experienced ... This position requires travel and the ability to work on job sites for extended periods. Benefits ...

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How much do traveling equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for traveling equipment operator in the United States is $24.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a traveling equipment operator?

A Traveling Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders at various job sites. This role requires frequent travel to different locations, often within a specific region or nationwide. Operators must ensure equipment is used safely and efficiently while following job specifications and safety regulations. The job may involve working in construction, road maintenance, or industrial settings. Strong mechanical skills, adaptability, and the ability to work in diverse environments are essential for success in this role.

What does a traveling equipment operator do?

A typical week for a Traveling Equipment Operator often involves traveling to multiple job sites, setting up and operating heavy equipment, performing routine maintenance checks, and collaborating with local crews to complete projects. Operators need to adapt quickly to different environments and project requirements, which may include varying weather, terrain, and schedules. Work hours can vary, sometimes requiring overtime or weekend shifts to meet project deadlines. Teamwork is essential, as operators frequently coordinate with project managers, mechanics, and other equipment operators to ensure job site efficiency and safety.

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

To thrive as a Traveling Equipment Operator, you need proven experience operating heavy machinery, strong mechanical aptitude, and a valid commercial driver’s license or similar credential. Familiarity with GPS systems, equipment maintenance protocols, and various types of construction or agricultural machinery is typically required. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to safety help operators succeed in new locations and team settings. These abilities enable operators to perform their duties efficiently, safely, and effectively while adapting to changing job sites and travel demands.

How do you become a traveling equipment operator?

To become a traveling equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience operating heavy machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, or excavators. Many employers require certification or licensing, which involves passing written and practical exams, and you should have good physical fitness and the ability to work in various environments and travel frequently.
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Traveling Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Traveling Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,524 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Traveling Equipment Operator / Ground Protection

Sunbelt Rentals, Inc.

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate heavy machinery such as skid steers, wheel loaders, and forklifts to load, unload, and install heavy ground mats and protective systems on job sites.

  • Assist in setting up and removing heavy-access roads and event flooring systems in various outdoor locations nationwide.

  • Perform safety checks on equipment, serve as a ground spotter during loading, and work closely with a team to ensure efficient and safe operations.

Sunbelt Rentals rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 320 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 177 rated vehicle equipment hire

Job description

Join Our Team!
Sunbelt Rentals strives to be the customer's first choice in the equipment rental industry. From pumps to scaffolding to general construction tools, we aim to be the only call needed to outfit a job site with the proper equipment. Not only do we offer a vast fleet that ranks among the best in the industry, we pair it all with a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our employees are our greatest asset, and although we present a comprehensive equipment offering, our expertise and service are what truly distinguish us from the competition.
We pride ourselves on investing in our workforce and offer competitive benefits, as well as extensive on-the-job training for all eligible employees.
As a highly successful national company, we are constantly looking for talented individuals to support our growth. If you are interested in pursuing a rewarding career, we invite you to review our opportunities!
Job Description Summary
Field Operator - Ground Protection (Heavy Travel)
Location: St. Louis Metro Area & Surrounding Region (Open to candidates across the broader metroplex!)
🚀 CRITICAL REQUIREMENT: Heavy & Flexible Travel
This is a high-travel role built for road warriors. If you love life on the move, this is for you!
  • Travel Frequency: Expect constant travel across the lower 48 states.
  • Flexibility: Must be ready to hit the road on short notice / at a moment's notice.
  • Trip Duration: Typically away for 3-5 days at a time (occasional 2-3 week deployments during peak project demands, though less common).
  • If you are unable or unwilling to travel extensively, this role will not be a good fit.

💰 Why You'll Love Working On the Road
We know travel is a big commitment, so we make sure you are fully supported and rewarded:
  • All Travel Covered: Hotels and accommodations are 100% company-paid.
  • $50/Day Per Diem: Extra daily cash allowance in your pocket for meals while traveling.
  • On-the-Clock Travel: You are paid for your travel hours-time spent getting to the jobsite is work time!
  • Massive Overtime Opportunities: Working on field job sites almost always guarantees overtime pay, giving a huge boost to your overall earning potential.
  • Top-Tier Benefits: Full medical, dental, vision, 4K/401(k) match, paid time off, and stability with an industry leader.

About the Role
Sunbelt Rentals is looking for a hands-on Equipment Operator / Field Associate to join our Ground Protection team. If you thrive in the outdoors, love operating heavy machinery, and want a dynamic role where no two days look the same, this is the position for you.
In this role, you won't just be standing around-you will be the driving force behind setting up heavy-access roads and event flooring systems. Your primary focus will be operating heavy equipment (like skid steers and forklifts) to efficiently load, unload, and lay down massive protective matting systems on major project sites nationwide.
What You'll Do (Day-to-Day Operations)
  • Machine Operation: Safely and skillfully operate skid steers, wheel loaders, and forklifts to move, load, unload, and hopscotch heavy ground mats in the yard and out on job sites.
  • Ground Support: Work closely with a tight-knit crew and a foreman to install and remove heavy-access roads, ensuring a safe and efficient setup.
  • Site & Equipment Safety: Serve as a ground spotter during equipment loading, perform daily pre-operation maintenance checks on tools/machinery, and visually inspect returns for damage.
  • Nationwide Field Freedom: Travel across the lower 48 states to various jobsites, adapting to different terrain and outdoor environments.

What It Takes to Succeed
  • 100% Willingness to Travel: Ready for constant travel (lower 48 states), last-minute departures, and multi-day/multi-week stays on the road.
  • Physical Grit: Capable of working outdoors in all weather conditions, bending, crouching, and lifting 50+ lbs regularly.
  • Equipment Experience: Prior experience running skid steers, track loaders, forklifts, or similar heavy yard/construction equipment is highly preferred.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Strong hands-on experience or training with mechanical equipment, industrial machinery, or a solid background in manual labor/field services.
  • Certifications: OSHA 10 strongly preferred.
  • Basic Tech Skills: Comfort using basic MS Office (Outlook) to stay connected with the team.

Perks & Culture
At Sunbelt Rentals, safety is key to our culture, and we empower our field crew to do what it takes to make it happen for our customers. We offer stable hours, an inclusive workplace, paid travel, daily per diem, heavy OT opportunities, and the chance to work with the best fleet in the industry.
Sunbelt Rentals is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran and any other protected class.
Is This Role a Good Fit for You?
If you have experience in any of the following roles or possess these key skill sets, you might be a great candidate for our Field Operator / Ground Protection team:
  • Related Job Titles & Roles: Heavy Equipment Operator, Skid Steer Operator, Forklift Driver, Track Loader Operator, Field Associate, Yard Loader, Construction Laborer, General Laborer, Rigging Specialist, Site Prep Specialist, Traveling Field Technician, or Industrial Material Handler.
  • Key Skill Sets & Technical Capabilities: Equipment Operation (Skid Steer, Wheel Loader, Forklift), Ground Protection & Matting Systems, Site Prep & Layout, Rigging & Spotting, Load & Unload Management, Preventive Maintenance, Mechanical Aptitude, Safety Compliance (OSHA 10), and Heavy Travel / Field Operations.
  • Attributes: Comfortable with 100% regional/national travel, working outdoors in variable weather conditions, and performing heavy physical labor.

Base Pay Range: $17.75 - 21.57
Starting rate of pay may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, position offered, location, education, training, and/or experience. Please visit https://www.sunbeltrentals.com/careers/ for more information on our benefits and to join our Talent Network.
Sunbelt also provides a comprehensive benefits package to its full-time employees. This package includes:
  • Health, Dental and Vision plans
  • 401(k) Match
  • Volunteer time off
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Accident, Life and Travel insurance, as well as flexible spending
  • Tuition Reimbursement Options
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Length of Service Awards

You will become eligible for benefits on the first of the month following 30 days from your start date. Sunbelt offers team members the following paid time off from work, subject to Sunbelt's policies (unless specified in a collective bargaining agreement):
  • 12-25 vacation days depending on years of service
  • 5 sick days
  • 6 holidays
  • 2 half day holidays
  • 2 floating holidays
  • 1 inclusion day
  • 1 volunteer day

Gear up for an exciting career!
Sunbelt Rentals supports service members. Veterans encouraged to apply.

What Sunbelt Rentals employees say

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About Sunbelt Rentals

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sunbelt Rentals strives to be the customer's first choice in the equipment rental industry. From pumps to scaffolding to general construction tools, we aim to be the only call needed to outfit a job site with the proper equipment. Not only do we offer a vast fleet that ranks among the best in the industry, we pair it all with a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Our employees are our greatest asset, and although we present a comprehensive equipment offering, our expertise and service are what truly distinguish us from the competition.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Mill, SC, US

Year founded

1983

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