Heavy Equipment Operator

Responsible for a variety of duties, heavy equipment operators may operate machinery that is able to move material or earth at homes, mines, or construction sites.  The majority of these professionals are found in the building trades or construction field, with approximately three out of every five heavy equipment operators performing some function necessary for construction.  Candidates must have the ability to operate computerized machinery, as well as inspect, set up, and repair machinery as necessary.  Professionals may include pile drivers, operating engineers, or paving professionals. 

Piles are large beams of steel or wood driven into the ground to provide needed support for structures.  Pile drivers are large machines mounted on skids, cranes, or barges that hammer these piles into the earth.  Professionals must carefully observe the progress of the machine to ensure proper insertion. 

Operating engineers are held accountable for the operation of numerous pieces of machinery including bulldozers, pavers, trench excavators, and road graders.  They must have knowledge and experience with all machines, and be able to use any of them at a moment’s notice.  They are integral to companies due to the variety of services they offer.

Paving professionals operate equipment used for digging existing roadways, preparing surfaces for roads, as well as the pouring and finishing of the surfaces.  They monitor the distribution of asphalt to ensure all surfaces are smooth and even.  Necessary equipment for these projects may include pavers and tampers. 

While a large number of professionals obtain their experience on the job, many employers prefer candidates with a formal education.  There are a number of vocational programs candidates may enter, but apprenticeships are the most extensive training offered.  Apprenticeships usually last approximately three years, and include a combination of on the job and classroom training, under an experienced professional.  Candidates with less than a high school diploma may enter these occupations if they possess mechanical or electrical aptitude, and they are generally able to work their way into the operation of heavy equipment. 

Experts are projecting the number of openings in this field to grow as fast as average industries.  There will be replacement needs for individuals leaving the workforce due to retirement, pursuing other occupations, or receiving promotions into other positions.  Population increases will add to the need for these candidates due to the construction of new homes and businesses.  Advancements in equipment will increase operator efficiency, comfort, and productivity.

For more information on a career as a heavy equipment operator, please visit the following sites:

• National Heavy Equipment Operator's School
• Southside Virginia Community College
• Flemming College
• SIAST
• Dane County Wisconsin

If you are searching for a heavy equipment operator position, or have a building trades position available, visit iHireBuildingTrades.  We are a niche job board focusing in positions within the trades industry.