How Much Does a Heavy Equipment Operator make?

Heavy Equipment Operator made a median salary around $74,990 in April, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $85,518 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $63,003. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Norfolk, Virginia

Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic VA with Security Clearance

People, Technology and Processes LLC - Virginia Beach, VA

Heavy Equipment Operator

Bristol Bay Construction Holdings - Boydton, VA

Heavy Equipment Operator

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Blacksburg, VA

download asset banner
Facing Salary Structure Challenges? Let Our Expert Guide You
The job market is increasingly challenging. Our whitepaper, Navigating the Challenges of Creating Salary Structures, offers guidance on creating salary structures. Provide your phone number and work email to download the full version.
We will handle your contact details in line with our Privacy Policy. If you prefer not to receive marketing emails from Salary.com, you can opt-out out of marketing communications at any time by clicking unsubscribe.

Best-Paying Cities for Heavy Equipment Operator

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Heavy Equipment Operator profession are Mc Lean , Annandale , Arlington , Greenway , Dhs .
Mc Lean, VA $88,517
Annandale, VA $88,517
Arlington, VA $88,517
Greenway, VA $88,517
Dhs, VA $88,517

Best-Paying States for Heavy Equipment Operator

The states and districts that pay Heavy Equipment Operator the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $88,517) , California (around $88,181) , Massachusetts (around $87,006) , Washington (around $86,686) , and New Jersey (around $86,654) .
District of Columbia $88,517
California $88,181
Massachusetts $87,006
Washington $86,686
New Jersey $86,654

Frequently Asked Questions for Heavy Equipment Operator

Q: What is the salary range of Heavy Equipment Operator in Norfolk, VA?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Heavy Equipment Operator in Norfolk, VA earned an average annual salary of $63,003 , while the highest-paid made $85,518.
Q: What is the salary for a Heavy Equipment Operator in California?
A: Heavy Equipment Operator employed in California earned an average salary of $88,181 in 2025.

Average Heavy Equipment Operator Pay vs. Other Jobs

Heavy Equipment Operator earned an average salary of $74,990 in 2025. Other jobs related to Heavy Equipment Operator earned the following average salary in April, 2025. Heavy Equipment Operator II made $46,680 , Heavy Equipment Operator I made $42,456 , Heavy Equipment Operator IV and Heavy Equipment Operator III made $72,020 and $54,395 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator II - Average Salary $46,680
Operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. May be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator I - Average Salary $42,456
Operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. May be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator IV - Average Salary $72,020
Operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. May be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Independently performs a wide range of complex duties under general guidance from supervisors. Has gained full proficiency in a broad range of activities related to the job. Typically requires 5-7 years of related experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator III - Average Salary $54,395
Operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. May be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee - Average Salary $74,990
There is currently no job description for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee.