> Heavy Equipment Operator

Description

The Heavy Equipment Operator Program offers hands-on training, preparing individuals to use machinery to move construction materials, earth, and other heavy materials at construction sites, mines, and sometimes your backyard. Construction equipment operators use equipment that clears and grades land to prepare it for construction of roads, buildings, and neighborhoods. They dig trenches to lay or repair sewer and other pipelines, and they hoist heavy construction materials. Construction equipment operators also operate machinery that applies asphalt and concrete to roads and other structures.

Operators control equipment by moving levers or foot pedals, operating switches, or turning dials. The operation of much of this equipment is becoming more complex as a result of computerized controls. Global Positioning System (GPS) technology also is being used to help with grading and leveling activities. In addition to controlling the equipment, construction equipment operators also transport, set up, and inspect the equipment, make adjustments, and perform some maintenance and minor repairs.

Heavy equipment operators may operate excavation and loading machines equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets that dig sand, gravel, earth, or similar materials and load it into trucks or onto conveyors. In addition to the familiar bulldozers, they operate trench excavators, road graders, and similar equipment. Sometimes they may drive and control industrial trucks or tractors equipped with forklifts or booms for lifting materials or with hitches for pulling trailers. They also may operate and maintain air compressors, pumps, and other power equipment at construction sites. Construction equipment operators who are classified as operating engineers are capable of operating several different types of construction equipment.