Equipment Operators

Education Required
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Median Wage
$35,770/yr
The equipment they operate may include bulldozers, trench excavators, road graders, cranes, rollers, forklifts, air compressors, milling machines, and asphalt spreaders.
About The Job

Equipment Operators are responsible for operating the machinery that is used to pave and surface roads as well as move heavy materials at construction sites.

What You'll Do
  • Compile cost estimates for jobs.
  • Drive tractor-trailer trucks to move equipment from site to site.
  • Operate compactors, scrapers, or rollers to level, compact, or cover refuse at disposal grounds.
  • Operate conveyors to remove grit and debris from digesters.
  • Operate road watering, oiling, or rolling equipment, or street sealing equipment, such as chip spreaders.
  • Perform specialized work, using equipment such as pile drivers, dredging rigs, drillers, or concrete pumpers.
  • Push other equipment when extra traction or assistance is required.
  • Talk to clients and study instructions, plans, or diagrams to establish work requirements.
  • Test atmosphere for adequate oxygen or explosive conditions when working in confined spaces.
  • Turn valves to control air or water output of compressors or pumps.