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What is an engineering equipment operator and how to become one
An engineering equipment operator is an individual who operates heavy machinery used in construction, mining, or excavating. These individuals operate equipment such as tractors, backhoes, bulldozers, hydraulic cranes, and forklifts. They often work out on construction sites, and help in the construction of buildings, bridges, roads, and are also responsible to observe all safety procedures and protocols while working at a site.
Most engineering equipment operators do not need an advanced degree to obtain a job in this field, however, a High School diploma or a GED is recommended, as well as completion of an apprenticeship program combined with on-the-job training. Self-motivated individuals are good problem-solves, and who enjoy working safely with heavy equipment make ideal candidates for this field. An engineering equipment operator should also possess strong communication, mechanical, and troubleshooting skills.
Many engineering equipment operators can make up to $46,000 per year in this field, and the job market is expected to grow 10% by 2028.
Avg. Salary $43,840
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth rate 5%
Growth rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2.11%
Asian 0.93%
Black or African American 7.08%
Hispanic or Latino 18.35%
Unknown 4.40%
White 67.13%
Genderfemale 4.29%
male 95.71%
Age - 46American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 46Stress level is high
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Engineering equipment operator career paths
Key steps to become an engineering equipment operator
Explore engineering equipment operator education requirements
Start to develop specific engineering equipment operator skills
Skills Percentages End Loaders 25.73% CDL 16.82% DOT 9.84% Loaders 8.84% Dump Truck 8.56% Complete relevant engineering equipment operator training and internships
Accountants spend an average of Less than 1 month on post-employment, on-the-job training. New engineering equipment operators learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an engineering equipment operator based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real engineering equipment operator resumes.Research engineering equipment operator duties and responsibilities
- Manage and cross-train subordinates in several job-relate tasks while promoting leadership.
- Dig trenches with shovels, mc clouds, Pulaski.
- Use bulldozers, cranes, grader and other heavy equipment for construction projects of army.
- Operate backhoes and trench diggers, operate loaders, sand spreaders, and snow plows when necessary to clear roads.
Prepare your engineering equipment operator resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your engineering equipment operator resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an engineering equipment operator resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose from 10+ customizable engineering equipment operator resume templates
Build a professional engineering equipment operator resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your engineering equipment operator resume.
Apply for engineering equipment operator jobs
Now it's time to start searching for an engineering equipment operator job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How did you land your first engineering equipment operator job
Are you an engineering equipment operator?
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Average engineering equipment operator salary
The average engineering equipment operator salary in the United States is $43,840 per year or $21 per hour. Engineering equipment operator salaries range between $31,000 and $60,000 per year.
What am I worth?
How do engineering equipment operators rate their job?
Engineering equipment operator reviews
Different challenges to overcome and adapt to get work done
Sitting idle with nothing to do
The power off the equipment the finish grade off the work and being safe
Broke down equipment
Its what I know and I am good at it . With that said always be open to constructive criticism so you can continue to grow in this field
Young bucks that come in with no it all temperaments without the experience. They can get you hurt in this line of work. Remember everything can kill you when dealing with heavy equipment
Updated January 8, 2025
