11,134 Heavy equipment operator jobs in United States
- 30d+
- Heavy Equipment Operator/LaborerMort's Water CompanyLatimer, IA$20.00 - $25.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply30d+
- CDL Class A /Heavy Equipment Operator- Construction
Genesis Rail Services, LLC2.3 ★Roanoke, VA$28.00 - $31.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply30d+ - 30d+
- 24h
- Log Yard Equipment OperatorFlorence Hardwoods LLCFlorence, WI$18.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply30d+
- CDL Driver/Equipment OperatorTaft Plumbing & Septic, IncOcean Park, WA$25.00 - $45.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply30d+
- 2d
- Heavy Equipment Operator (Forestry Equipment)DLR ServicesLake Wales, FL$20.00 - $25.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply24h
- 6d
- 24h
- Heavy Equipment Operator/Truck Driver/LaborerSpring Brook ConstructionWisconsin Dells, WI$20.00 - $23.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply24h
- 24h
- Heavy Equipment Operator/Truck Driver/LaborerJ-Reed Excavating LLCIndependence, MN$15.00 - $30.00 Per Hour (Employer est.)Easy Apply30d+
- 24h
- 24h
- 1d
- 8d
- 24h
- 24h
Job Outlook for Heavy Equipment Operator
Powered by Glassdoor Economic ResearchHeavy equipment operators are skilled technicians who operate machinery designed to move and lift materials, often at construction sites. Demand for heavy equipment operators is expected to remain steady. A high school diploma and apprentice experience is typically required for entry to the field. Some states also require OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certification. The most competitive candidates complete two-year associate’s programs in related fields. All candidates must be able to read and understand directions and follow safety protocols.
Frequently asked questions
Whether you already have experience or are in search of an entry-level heavy equipment operator job, you'll find exactly what you're looking for on Glassdoor. Experience is key in the heavy equipment industry, and companies are always in search of skilled workers to take on senior heavy equipment operator roles. These senior positions may involve managing a team of operators or taking on more challenging projects.
Smaller companies or temporary operations may prefer a more flexible work relationship and offer part-time heavy equipment operator jobs to the right candidates. Inquire about the potential to go full-time with the company to lock in a position with a team that you enjoy working with. Use the same approach for heavy equipment operator contract postings.
You can prepare to show off your knowledge of the technical aspects of being a heavy equipment operator as you study these common heavy equipment operator interview questions and their explanations.
Heavy equipment operators set up and use high-value machinery that projects and production lines rely on. Being able to deliver consistent performance as an operator carries extra value that potential employers will pay for. To find the best high-paying position, follow these steps:
- Use your location and experience level to find comparable roles and the most common heavy equipment operator salaries. You may be surprised at what you could make looking at neighboring cities.
- See what your heavy equipment operator career trajectory means for your expected pay range and job duties.
- Brush up on heavy equipment operation techniques and maintain or re-acquire industry certifications. Each new skill or certification will increase your potential earnings even in entry-level roles.
Companies invest thousands and sometimes millions of dollars into the equipment and rely on employees to operate them safely and without damage. When you have the right skills and mindset for the role, make sure you're being given fair compensation beyond your salary including:
- Flexible schedules and time off to ensure you can rest between projects
- Increased pay rate for overtime hours or for working holidays
- Insurance plans for medical, vision, and dental on top of PTO and sick time allowances
Expansion and development are always happening and heavy equipment operators are required to bring projects or production to life. The ceiling for pay as a heavy equipment operator is extremely high, and open roles are waiting for you right now.