How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Heavy Equipment Operator
What does a Heavy Equipment Operator do?
A Heavy Equipment Operator operates heavy equipment or machinery, such as a tractor, bulldozer, backhoe, or excavator, for the purposes of construction, demolition, or excavation. Prepares equipment and conducts routine inspections prior to operation to ensure it is safe and in working condition. Being a Heavy Equipment Operator identifies and addresses potential hazards and adheres to all safety protocols and regulations. May be responsible for scheduling minor repairs and conducting routine maintenance like cleaning and lubricating. Additionally, Heavy Equipment Operator requires a high school diploma. May require State License. Typically reports to a supervisor. The Heavy Equipment Operator independently performs a wide range of complex duties under general guidance from supervisors. Has gained full proficiency in a broad range of activities related to the job. To be a Heavy Equipment Operator typically requires 5-7 years of related experience.
Various organizations set standards for training for heavy equipment operators.
Much publication about heavy equipment operators focuses on improving safety for such workers.
As their title clearly states, Heavy Equipment Operators must operate all kinds of heavy equipment used on any construction site, from bulldozers and power shovels to rollers and scrapers.
Most Heavy Equipment Operators are also capable of conducting all necessary maintenance in order to keep the equipment in excellent conditions.
In order to become a Heavy Equipment Operator, one must complete a trade school program specialized in the matter, like the ones offered by the Heavy Equipment Colleges of America.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Heavy Equipment Operator
Best tips for those who want to become a Heavy Equipment Operator
Here are some tips to become a Heavy Equipment Operator.
Apply strict regulations for the protection of operators.
Look to Manufacturers –Many heavy equipment manufacturers offer training and safety videos with the goal of educating owners and operators about the importance of safety while using heavy equipment.
Inspect equipment before operating.
Identify power lines and underground utilities in advance.
Be cautious when mounting and dismounting equipment.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Heavy Equipment Operator
Best colleges and universities for Heavy Equipment Operator
- Butler University
- Taylor University
- California State University--Maritime Academy
- William Jessup University
- Fairfield University
- United States Merchant Marine Academy
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Heavy Equipment Operator
Is being a Heavy Equipment Operator Worth it?
If you’re looking into a new career, heavy equipment operator jobs are lucrative and readily available across many industries.
Read on to discover a list of eight of the best jobs you can apply for now if you’re looking to operate heavy equipment for a living.
As a forklift driver, you’ll use the equipment to pick up and relocate a wide variety of items and large palettes stacked with different parts, materials, or inventory.
You’ll find these heavy equipment operator jobs in a wide range of settings including warehouses and general construction sites.
Heavy equipment operator jobs are going to be in demand for the foreseeable future, and it’s no surprise why.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Heavy Equipment Operator
What skills do you need to be a Heavy Equipment Operator?
There are many skills required to succeed in this role, which vary in importance depending on the exact role and department size. The daily workload for this job will be highly dependant on these skills: Heavy Equipment Operation, Vehicle Inspection/Cleaning/Maintenance. By growing your skills to reflect the ones mentioned, you are more likely to succeed in this role, and move forward to a more senior position.
You can prepare to work in this occupation by first learning to operate light equipment under an experienced operator's guidance.
Heavy equipment operators have an excellent job outlook.
Highly trained Heavy Equipment Operator with over three years of experience operating construction equipment including bulldozers, forklifts, backhoes, dump trucks, cargo trucks, and hydraulic truck cranes.
While some operators start their own businesses, others with experience get jobs as supervisors or safety officers.
They must be at least 18 years old and possess a commercial driver’s license, and certification for specific equipment, preferably with experience.
Step 6: View average salary for Heavy Equipment Operator
How much does a Heavy Equipment Operator make?
The average salary range for a Heavy Equipment Operator is from $65,991 to $90,180. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
-
View average salary for the United States
-
Adjust salary by state
Average salary for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Heavy Equipment Operator jobs, and apply.
Looking for Heavy Equipment Operator jobs?
Here are some Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in the United States.