Heavy equipment operators are a vital part of any construction site. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery that helps to build projects and make them ready for occupancy.
If you are desirous of becoming a heavy equipment operator, there are several steps involved in obtaining your license and training with a company specializing in this type of work.
In order to do so successfully, you must understand what goes into becoming licensed and what skills are required by employers looking for qualified workers who can perform tasks such as digging through dirt or cutting through steel beams with ease.
This article is poised to provide you with such information and more.
Types of Heavy Equipment
As a heavy machinery operator, you will work with many different types of equipment. Learning to operate each of them is one of the main challenges of the job, as operators will need to be able to switch between different machines quite quickly on some sites.
Here are just a few types of heavy equipment that you will need to become familiar with, both in operation and in use, as you learn how to become a heavy equipment operator:
- Cranes
- Dump trucks
- Road graders
- Excavators
- Rams
- Tractors
- Telescopic manipulators
- Front-loaders
- Asphalt pavers and rollers
- Bulldozers
- Forklifts
Some of these types of equipment are used in the construction industry, while others are used for agricultural work, demolition, routine maintenance, and many other activities.
You may not need to use all of these in one career as a machinist, but many of them will likely be in your everyday work vocabulary.
Heavy Equipment Operator | Job Description & Salary
You’re probably thinking, “There’s no way this is enough information to get me started in the right direction.”
However, it is important to understand that there’s more than one type of heavy equipment operator. There are those who dig with cranes and shovels, as well as those who use excavators.
Excavators are considered specialized machines that can be used for clearing land or lifting heavy objects.
They are frequently used at construction sites and in mining industries, for example, when you’re building an irrigation ditch or helping move machinery around a site where there has been an accident involving heavy machinery.
Excavators are also helpful for landscaping projects by removing debris from hard-to-reach areas such as rocky slopes or steep hillsides; they may even be used at construction sites.
According to the U.S bureau of labor statistics, the average heavy equipment operator salary is $69,324 as of November 2022, but it typically ranges between $57,977 and $78,648.
The salary range varies greatly depending on many important factors, including education, the number of years spent, certifications, and other skills.
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How To Become A Heavy Equipment Operator
Obtaining The Right Licensure Is Vital
Licensing requirements vary by state, so you will have to check with your state’s department of labor for details.
Licensing requirements vary by the type of machinery you operate, such as a dump truck or excavator. For example, to operate an excavator in New York State (NY), you must be licensed as an engineer with at least one year of experience.
You must be able to obtain these qualifications through apprenticeship programs approved by the NYS Department of Labor (DOL).
If you’re working for yourself instead of an employer with more than five employees and no license required by law, there may be no licensing requirement.
Earn Licensure And/Or Heavy Equipment Operator Certification
In some states, heavy equipment operators, such as those who operate various types of cranes, may be required to obtain a state license or be certified by a national organization.
Wondering where to get your heavy equipment operator certification? The National Crane Certification Commission (NCCCO) offers certification for several crane types, such as mobile and tower cranes.
Obtaining certification usually requires passing a written and practical crane operation exam.
While there is no free heavy equipment operator training, the cost of heavy equipment operator school is still very low compared to other professions that require post-secondary education or training.
Certification lasts five years and must be renewed by passing a recertification exam and obtaining at least 1,000 hours of crane experience.
Applicants must also adhere to NCCCO’s ethical and medical guidelines on substance abuse.
Many employers require a heavy machinery operator to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive a truck and trailer that transports equipment to and from the job site.
Requirements for these licenses may vary, but they include a written and practical exam. Maintaining a heavy equipment operator license and certification can provide stable work and lead to promotions or career advancement.
Education Prepares You For The Real World
You must take important steps to learn more about the industry and equipment. This includes attending conferences, training programs, and even interning at a company.
The best way to prepare for this career is by getting an education in heavy equipment or related fields such as mechanical engineering or construction management.
You can also work toward obtaining certification through industry organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).
While it is true that most of your day-to-day duties will involve working with machines, from shoveling dirt on construction sites to excavating trenches, it’s important not just because they’re dangerous but because they’re complex.
The more knowledge you have about how things work together and what happens when something goes wrong with an engine or other piece of machinery under pressure, the better equipped you are for handling these situations when they arise during operation time.
Get A High School Diploma
Almost all heavy equipment operator jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, high school business, math, and automotive technology courses often benefit potential heavy equipment operators.
School requirements for heavy equipment operators usually do not apply to the university level. Another thing that could be very helpful is to have previous work experience rather than focusing too much on the requirements of heavy equipment schools.
Read Also: What Degrees Do You Need To Be An Architect?
Complete Heavy Equipment Training
There are three ways to become a heavy equipment operator. Individuals may complete a union apprenticeship or a state apprenticeship program or go to college or technical school.
Most states require apprentices to be registered with the state. Apprenticeships provide classroom and on-the-job training with approved companies and typically last 3 to 4 years.
In the classroom, students learn equipment regulation and safety, maintenance and repair, soil science, site classification, mathematics, and plan reading.
Apprentices work under qualified and experienced operators who learn machine operation, site safety, and practical application of the skills learned in the classroom.
College or technical school programs also offer classroom training and hands-on experience in equipment operation and maintenance; however, a graduate of one of these programs may not have as much industry experience as an apprentice.
Depending on the school, credits earned may be transferable to an associate degree program in a field such as construction. If the applicant is in an unionized area, a union-sponsored apprenticeship may need to be considered.
A state apprenticeship program or training through a community college or technical school may be a better option if the region is not unionized.
Before enrolling in a technical or trade school, check to see if local businesses are hiring their graduates. This information can help you choose an educational institution and provide insight into career placement.
FAQ
How Do You Get A Heavy Equipment Operator License In Massachusetts?
License applicants must be over 18 years of age, process an application, and pass an exam covering all the hoist’s working parts, safe operating procedures, hand signals, and inspection procedures. Licenses must be renewed every two years.
How Do You Become A Heavy Equipment Operator In Colorado?
The operator training program is designed to instruct and train individuals to become competent line store heavy equipment operators.
How Do I Get A Heavy Equipment License In Texas?
You can get certified from a college or university, the International Union of Operating Engineers, or heavy equipment operator schools in Texas. OSHA training is often provided at the same time you receive your heavy equipment.
How Much Does A Heavy Equipment Operator School Cost In California?
A good training program will cost your organization anywhere between $4,000 and $20,000, depending on location, equipment, etc. Heavy equipment training provides both equipment-specific training and in-depth safety tips and protocols.
Do Heavy Equipment Operators Need Math?
What are the basic skill levels required for heavy equipment operators? Trades require basic skills of at least level 3. Use many math operations and perform multiple calculation steps to solve the problem. They can use combinations of mathematical formulas.
How Do I Get To Experience As A Heavy Equipment Operator?
Apprenticeship programs are available for heavy equipment operators, often sponsored by unions. An apprenticeship usually takes 3-4 years to complete. The benefit is that you earn while you learn with field and classroom training.
Do You Need A CDL To Operate Heavy Equipment In Texas?
Technically, you don’t need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to operate heavy equipment. But having your CDL makes you much more valuable to employers, which can mean getting a raise, getting hired, or staying home and looking for a job that pays the bills.
How Much Does A Union Heavy Equipment Operator Make In Texas?
As of November 2022, the salary of an equipment operator salary in Texas is $68,074, but the range is typically between $56,931 and $77,230.
What Trades Require A License In Texas?
Plumbers, electricians, and HVAC contractors. Fire sprinkler installers, well drillers, mold remediation contractors, and elevator and escalator installation companies must also be licensed by the state.
What Is The Best State For Heavy Equipment Operators?
Research shows that New Jersey is the best recognized for heavy equipment operators in America. The best city in America for the highest-paying heavy equipment operators is Trenton, NJ.
Conclusion
As noted, there are many different ways to become a heavy equipment operator. The best way is to find an apprenticeship program that matches your skills and career goals.
In addition, you should consider taking some classes at a local community college or university, as these will help prepare you for the job market and give you options regarding your licensing exam.