Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator
Operate one or several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard surface pavement. May repair and maintain equipment in addition to other duties.
At a Glance
Operating Engineer / Heavy Equipment Operator earns an average of $43,335/yr. Typical education: High school or GED. Experience: 2.6–3.2 years. Top skills: Heavy Equipment, Commercial Driver's License (CDL), English Language.
$43,335/yr
High school or GED
2.6–3.2 years
24
Parent Occupation (O*NET)
Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
Median Wage
$58,710/yr
Growth (2024-34)
+3.6%
Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Skills & Requirements
Specialized Skills (19)
Heavy Equipment
Housekeeping
Lifting Ability
Forklift Truck
Backhoes
Front End Loaders
Flatbed Truck Operation
Excavation
General Mathematics
Reading Gauges
Overhead Crane Operation
Good Driving Record
Safety Standards
Safety Procedures
Plant Safety
Personal Protective Equipment
Dozer
Trenching
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Common Skills (8)
Operations
Coordinating
Computer Literacy
Data Compilation
Willingness To Learn
Communication
Professionalism
Certifications (3)
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Valid Driver's License
10-Hour OSHA General Industry Card
Related Specializations
Other specialized occupations in this field. Many share overlapping skills, making lateral moves more accessible.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
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