Operators who can use and operate a wide variety of equipment have the best job opportunities.

Average earnings are around $18 an hour and vary depending on the segment of the industry. Due to a pile drivers and crane operator specialization they tend to make the most out of other heavy equipment operators. A general range for a heavy equipment operators salary would be $35,000 to $45,000.

Hourly rate broken down by job type:

• Pile Drivers
  $26-19
• HEOs
  $21-17
• Asphalt paving
  $16-15