What does an Equipment Operator do?
Published 3 min read
An Equipment Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of a variety of machines and equipment used in construction, manufacturing, and other industrial settings. They may operate cranes, forklifts, bulldozers, and other heavy machinery, as well as smaller tools and equipment. Equipment Operators must be able to safely and efficiently operate their machines, as well as perform basic maintenance and repairs.
Equipment Operator job duties include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, maps, and other drawings in order to determine work procedures.
- Select tools, materials, and equipment and track inventory.
- Operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, graders, and excavators.
- Perform preventive maintenance on equipment and make necessary repairs.
- Inspect equipment for safety and report any issues.
- Dig trenches, holes, or foundations using excavating and trenching machinery.
- Level earth to prepare it for construction or landscaping using grading machinery.
- Move heavy loads of earth or debris using bulldozers or other heavy equipment.
- Compact soil using rollers to prepare it for building or landscaping.
Equipment Operator Job Requirements
An Equipment Operator typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete on-the-job training. Some states have certification programs for equipment operators. Employers usually prefer candidates with previous experience operating the specific type of equipment required for the job.
Equipment Operator Skills
- Equipment operation
- Equipment maintenance
- Troubleshooting
- Safety
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Organization
- Prioritization
- Flexibility
- Adaptability
Related: Top Equipment Operator Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Equipment Operator
Most 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 equipment operators.
Most equipment operators learn their trade through on-the-job training. New workers typically start as helpers or trainees. With experience, they become journey workers and may eventually become lead workers or supervisors. Some large companies offer formal apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs can last up to 4 years and usually result in a journey worker certificate.
Some equipment operator jobs require certification from professional organizations or state licensing boards. For example, the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators offers voluntary certification for crane operators. Some states have certification programs for construction equipment operators. The requirements for these programs vary by state but often include passing an exam and having a certain amount of experience operating construction equipment.
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