How To Begin A Rewarding Career As A Heavy Equipment Operator?

Answer 1

A heavy equipment operator is responsible for operating a variety of large vehicles. This includes cranes, bulldozers, forklifts, excavators as well as many other construction vehicles that are classified as machinery. They are responsible for performing certain tasks at construction sites, on farms and for various contracted jobs.

Heavy equipment operators are faced with a steady job market due to replacing retiring workers, demand and business relocation needs. They earn an hourly salary that typically ranges from $12 to $35 an hour depending on the company that they work for, the geographical location of the job and their skills and training. Starting a career as a heavy equipment operator can open up a better future for you. If you enjoy working in a variety of different areas and enjoy the construction field, this may be the right job for you.

You must meet certain requirements to begin a career as a heavy equipment operator that includes special training, physical requirements and safety knowledge among other things. If you would like to begin a new career field in this area, here is a roadmap to help get you on your way.

1. In order to operate large heavy equipment, you must possess a Commercial Driver’s License. You can get your CDL endorsement through local training classes, on the job training with follow up tests at your local Secretary of State office, Apprenticeship programs or accredited universities and colleges Which ever way that you choose is okay, as long as the endorsement is recognized in the area that you are planning on working.

2. You should have the basic knowledge of small construction equipment. Again you can get this from on the job training, universities and colleges or local training programs in your area. There are also some great accredited online colleges and universities that can help you get the skills and training that you need.

3. Some states require you to earn a special license for the operation of larger sized heavy equipment before they will let you legally operate them on the road. There are special heavy equipment operator programs that you can attend which usually last for approximately 6 months. At the end of your training you will earn a certification or associates degree in this area. These are recognized in most states and give you you a better opportunity to get the jobs available over other candidates. These special licenses and degrees also help to increase your starting salary by raising your value to the company you are being considered to work for.