all about heavy equipment operator jobs.

Heavy equipment operators drive construction equipment. This can include backhoes, forklifts, bulldozers, cranes, and dump trucks. Your main role is to support the construction project, and maintain a safe work environment at all times. You are expected to work efficiently and in coordination with other machinery and construction professionals.

what do heavy equipment operator jobs entail?

Heavy equipment operators work long hours. Work can be seasonal depending on the type of equipment you operate. You can expect to work more in the summer months. Your duties will depend on the type of construction and equipment. For example, a bulldozer operator could be tasked with clearing land whereas a dump truck driver could be required to move materials from a construction site to a dump site. You will spend most of your time behind the wheel and will report to the construction manager.

what are pros and cons of heavy equipment operator jobs?

People choose to work as heavy equipment operators for many reasons. The pay is good, the job can be fun, you’ll always be working on new projects, you will always learn new things and your skills are always in demand. Some of the challenging parts of operating heavy equipment are the long hours, potentially poor weather conditions, dangerous surroundings, and sitting for extended periods of time.

what are future career paths for heavy equipment operators?

Heavy equipment operators generally do not move around a lot. Once you master a certain piece of equipment, you tend to use it for the duration of your career. Some professionals may move on and work for different companies or different types of construction. Most focus on building up hours of experience, which is a key factor in how much money you can make.

what are related jobs for heavy equipment operators?

Other jobs you might be interested in that are similar to heavy equipment operator include:

• General labourer
• Machinist
• Production worker
• Assembler
• Forklift operator

discover our most recent heavy equipment operator jobs

what is the average salary for heavy equipment operators?

Heavy equipment operators have an average annual salary of about $70,000 per year. Your salary can be impacted by your location and the type of equipment you are trained to operate. At the top end of the salary scale you can make about $85,000 per year.

average heavy equipment operator salaries in canada

annual: $70,000
monthly: $5,833
weekly: $1,346
hourly: $33.65

Top paying areas for heavy equipment operators in Canada include: All of Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia.

discover our most recent heavy equipment operator jobs

what are heavy equipment operators responsible for?

The responsibilities of a heavy equipment operator are straightforward. You will be tasked with the following:

• Operating equipment
• Following construction plans
• Coordinate movement with other machinery
• Ensuring your surroundings are safe at all times
• Perform equipment safety checks and inspections
• Minor equipment maintenance

where do heavy equipment operators typically work?

Heavy equipment operators generally work for a construction company, municipality, or a heavy equipment contractor. You will work outside on construction sites

discover our most recent heavy equipment operator jobs

what skills do heavy equipment operators need?

Heavy machine operators are skilled professionals. They have expert driving skills and a detailed knowledge of construction practices. Here are the top skills you will need to be successful in the role:

• Good vision and coordination
• Good driving skills
• You think quickly on your feet
• The ability to troubleshoot issues
• Great teamwork
• A dedication to workplace safety
• A clean driving record

what training and certifications do heavy equipment operators need?

A high school diploma and experience with mechanics is required by most companies. The specific type of training you require will depend on the equipment you want to operate. Many operators start at the bottom as a construction labourer. There are certain licence classes you will need to obtain. Most start with light machinery and work up to larger equipment as they gain experience. Apprenticeships and on-the-job training are common. Inquire about local certification requirements in your city.

discover our most recent heavy equipment operator jobs