Equipment operator jobs? (live in, to move, license)

[C.Smitty]

Wondering if anyone has any insight on heavy equipment operator jobs in the area? Things such as average pay rate, availability and longevity. Any info would be appreciated. I have certifications. Unfortunately trying to find anything in this field of work here in the Peoples Republic of California is next to impossible unless your a card carrying union member. I choose not to be one. Not really concerned with the size of the company. Just as long as they are big enough to provide consistent work, with a decent pay scale to the area. I'm good with about anything to get my foot in the door. Although I prefer doing dozer work.
My wife and I just want out of this cesspool and raise our two girls in a better place. I grew up in N. Calif in the mountains and I would prefer to be in a similar environment. This is what has drawn me to E. Tenn. The mountains there just keep grabbing my attention.
Anyways thanks for any input you may have.

[mbmouse]

Have family that tried to move here with heavy equipment operators license and experience. No unions, but ran up against the good ol boy network. Couldn't find anything in the field but did find most who had those jobs were related to someone else who had those jobs. Sorry to be a downer on the job thing because I do agree, this is a great place to raise the kids!

[C.Smitty]

Thanks, I appreciate the information. Yeah it's a downer, but I understand it as well. Being that we live in one of the northern most counties of California with a small population we have the good old boy network as well. I have dealt with this stuff forever. Is it discouraging? Yes! It can be overcome with enough charm and BS if you play your cards right though. I don't tend to let things like that bother me. I will get out of this state one way or another.