What does a Heavy Equipment Operator do?
Published 4 min read
A heavy equipment operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators. They may work in a variety of industries, including construction, mining, and logging. Heavy equipment operators must be able to control their machines using joysticks or levers, and they must be aware of their surroundings at all times to avoid accidents.
Heavy Equipment Operator job duties include:
- Operating excavators, loaders, graders, rollers, and other heavy equipment
- Clearing land and preparing construction sites
- Digging trenches, holes, and foundations
- Loading and transporting construction materials
- Grading roads and leveling earth
- Laying asphalt or concrete
- Compact earth using heavy equipment
- Operating a paver to lay down asphalt or concrete
- Drive dump trucks to haul away excavated soil or debris
Heavy Equipment Operator Job Requirements
Most heavy equipment operators have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and most operators receive on-the-job training. Some states have certification programs for heavy equipment operators. Employers generally prefer to hire candidates with experience operating the specific type of machinery they need.
Heavy Equipment Operator Skills
- Safe operation
- Ability to read and interpret grade stakes, blueprints and other instructions
- Ability to work long hours in all weather conditions
- Ability to operate various types of heavy equipment
- Ability to perform basic maintenance on equipment
- Excellent hand-eye coordination
- Strong physical stamina and endurance
- Good problem solving skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Good math skills
- Basic computer skills
Related: Top Heavy Equipment Operator Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Heavy Equipment Operator
A heavy equipment operator is someone who uses machinery to move and grade earth, operate cranes, and perform other construction-related tasks. There is a lot of demand for heavy equipment operators, especially in the construction and mining industries. If you’re interested in becoming a heavy equipment operator, here are a few things you need to know.
First, you will need to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL). You can usually get this through your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Once you have your CDL, you will need to complete a training program that will teach you how to operate the different types of heavy equipment. These programs typically last several weeks and are offered by community colleges or private companies that specialize in training heavy equipment operators.
After completing a training program, you will need to pass a certification exam administered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). Once you have your certification, you will be able to find work as a heavy equipment operator.
If you’re interested in becoming a heavy equipment operator, there are plenty of opportunities out there. Just make sure you get the proper training and certification before applying for jobs.
Related: Heavy Equipment Operator Resume Example
Related: Heavy Equipment Operator Interview Questions (With Example Answers)