What Does a Construction Equipment Operator Do?

First, you’ll need to earn a high school diploma or equivalent. 

To get the training you need, you can take several paths, including technical school, community college, military training or apprenticeship. 

Technical schools and community colleges offer certificate or degree programs, which are a combination of classroom time and on-the-job training. Courses will typically include math, how to repair and maintain equipment, soil science, safety regulations and how to read grading plans and blueprints. Training may include simulator training before you control the bigger machines. Many of these programs focus on one type of machine, such as a bulldozer or backhoe. 

You can also learn to operate heavy machinery in the military. This translates to civilian life with certification, which we'll cover in more detail below.

Apprenticeships are offered by trade unions, governments and some businesses. They are more comprehensive, providing supervised training on several types of equipment. Apprentices attend classes, get on-the-job training and typically earn a paycheck as they learn. 

No matter which path you choose, prepare to gain knowledge and plenty of operating experience. 

The more you can learn from experienced equipment operators, the better. 

The next step is earning your certification. Most states, some cities and some employers require certification or a license to operate machines over a certain weight, such as cranes and pile drivers. However, there are no federal rules. Be sure to look up the regulations in your state or city. 

Another way to prepare is to earn certification. For example, the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) offers certification to operate mobile or tower cranes.

Certification requires passing a written test and a practical exam.

Even if it’s not required, certification is worthwhile. It’s proof to employers that you are well-trained and that your skills and knowledge have been independently verified. (You are also less likely to have an accident.) 

There’s plenty of opportunity for heavy equipment operators who love being in the cab, but there’s also room for growth. Some operators start their own businesses.

The length of training depends on the path you choose. 

Technical school and community college programs typically take one to two years if they are focused on one type of machinery. An apprenticeship typically takes from three to four years, but you’re earning a paycheck while you learn.

Continuing education to maintain licenses or certifications is ongoing.

You must be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license.

You may need to earn a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive some machines or the trucks that transport them to job sites.

Depending on what state you plan to work in, you may also need to get a Department of Labor (DOL) card, which is proof of basic Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) training.

Jobs for equipment operators are projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

The massive amount of money that will be spent on infrastructure upgrades in the coming years means heavy equipment operators have job security.

Successful heavy equipment operators tend to share these traits: 

• Steady hands and feet and good coordination to operate the equipment 
• Detail-oriented
• Excellent vision
• Good mechanical skills and understanding
• Not afraid of heights