A heavy equipment operator drives or controls construction equipment, including bulldozers, forklifts, backhoes, dump trucks, cargo trucks, and hydraulic truck cranes. They operate this equipment to assist in the construction of structures, including bridges, roads, and buildings.
Heavy equipment operators usually specialize in one of three areas. Construction equipment operators, also called operating engineers, handle loading and excavation machines. They use these machines to dig and lift sand, gravel, or earth. Paving and surface equipment operators use machines to spread concrete and asphalt during the construction of roadways. Pile-driver operators control equipment to hammer heavy beams of wood, concrete, and steel, called piles, into the ground.
Operate heavy equipment in compliance with the company's operating safety policies and procedures.
Provide recommendations for maintaining and improving environmental performance.
Load and unload equipment from vehicles and trailers.
Ensure company equipment, material, and the work site are maintained, kept clean, and stored in a safe manner. Collect and dispose of scrap, excess materials, and refuse.
Observe distribution of paving material to adjust machine settings or material flow, and indicate low spots for workers to add material.
Complete required paperwork, reporting, and other documentation.
High school diploma or GED
Proficiency in the safe operation of tractors, excavators and graders
Active CDL
Clean driving record
Ability to accurately interpret plans
