How Much Does a Heavy Machinery Operator make?

Heavy Machinery Operator made a median salary around $82,671 in December, 2024. The best-paid 25 percent made $94,273 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $69,459. 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 Machinery Operator jobs in Portland, Oregon

Heavy Equipment Operator

Western Rock Resources - Rainier, OR

Heavy Equipment Operator

Western Rock Resources - Amity, OR

Heavy Equipment Operator 3

Waste Connections - Eagle Point, OR

Heavy Equipment Operator, I - Landfill

Waste Management, Inc. - Hillsboro, OR

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Best-Paying Cities for Heavy Machinery Operator

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Heavy Machinery Operator profession are Adams , Athena , Cove , Elgin , Imbler .
Adams, OR $83,464
Athena, OR $83,464
Cove, OR $83,464
Elgin, OR $83,464
Imbler, OR $83,464

Best-Paying States for Heavy Machinery Operator

The states and districts that pay Heavy Machinery Operator the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $88,304) , California (around $87,510) , New Jersey (around $86,955) , Alaska (around $86,400) , and Massachusetts (around $86,320) .
District of Columbia $88,304
California $87,510
New Jersey $86,955
Alaska $86,400
Massachusetts $86,320

Frequently Asked Questions for Heavy Machinery Operator

Q: What is the salary range of Heavy Machinery Operator in Portland, OR?
A: In 2024 , the lowest-paid Heavy Machinery Operator in Portland, OR earned an average annual salary of $69,459 , while the highest-paid made $94,273.
Q: What is the salary for a Heavy Machinery Operator in California?
A: Heavy Machinery Operator employed in California earned an average salary of $87,510 in 2024.

Average Heavy Machinery Operator Pay vs. Other Jobs

Heavy Machinery Operator earned an average salary of $82,671 in 2024. Other jobs related to Heavy Machinery Operator earned the following average salary in December, 2024. Heavy Equipment Operator IV made $81,818 , Heavy Equipment Operator III made $64,748 , Heavy Equipment Operator II and Heavy Equipment Operator I made $55,629 and $50,196 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Heavy Machinery Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator IV - Average Salary $81,818
Heavy Equipment Operator IV 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. Being a Heavy Equipment Operator IV 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. Additionally, Heavy Equipment Operator IV requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Heavy Equipment Operator IV 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. To be a Heavy Equipment Operator IV typically requires 5-7 years of related experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator III - Average Salary $64,748
Heavy Equipment Operator III 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. Being a Heavy Equipment Operator III 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. Additionally, Heavy Equipment Operator III requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Heavy Equipment Operator III works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. To be a Heavy Equipment Operator III typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator II - Average Salary $55,629
Heavy Equipment Operator II 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. Being a Heavy Equipment Operator II 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. Additionally, Heavy Equipment Operator II requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Heavy Equipment Operator II works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Heavy Equipment Operator II typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Heavy Equipment Operator I - Average Salary $50,196
Heavy Equipment Operator I 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. Being a Heavy Equipment Operator I 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. Additionally, Heavy Equipment Operator I requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Heavy Equipment Operator I 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 Machine Operator - Average Salary $49,728
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