Heavy Machinery Operator Education Requirements And Courses

Heavy machinery operator education requirements

Updated January 8, 2025

2 min read

Usually, heavy machinery operators don't need a college education. The most common degree for heavy machinery operators is high school diploma with 45% graduates, with only 23% heavy machinery operator graduates earning bachelor's degree. Heavy machinery operators who decided to graduate from college often finish Ohio State University or DeVry University. Some good skills to have in this position include dump truck, backhoe and load trucks.

What education do you need to become a heavy machinery operator?

What degree do you need to be a heavy machinery operator?

The most common degree for heavy machinery operators is high school diploma, with 45% of heavy machinery operators earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are bachelor's degree degree at 23% and bachelor's degree degree at 17%.

High School Diploma, 45%

Bachelor's, 23%

Associate, 17%

Diploma, 11%

Other Degrees, 4%

What should I major in to become a heavy machinery operator?

You should major in business to become a heavy machinery operator. 21% of heavy machinery operators major in business. Other common majors for a heavy machinery operator include criminal justice and general studies.

Business, 21%

Criminal Justice, 9%

General Studies, 7%

Automotive Technology, 6%

Other Majors, 57%

Best majors for heavy machinery operators

Rank	Major	Percentages
1	Business	20.6%
2	Criminal Justice	9.2%
3	General Studies	7.3%
4	Automotive Technology	6.5%
5	Precision Metal Working	6.1%

Show more common heavy machinery operator majors

20 best online courses for heavy machinery operators

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Average heavy machinery operator salary by education level

Heavy machinery operators with a Associate degree earn more than those without, at $32,283 annually. With a Bachelor's degree, heavy machinery operators earn a median annual income of $31,697 compared to $31,606 for heavy machinery operators with an High School Diploma degree.

Heavy machinery operator education level	Heavy machinery operator salary
High School Diploma or Less	$31,606
Bachelor's Degree	$31,697
Some College/ Associate Degree	$32,283