Is heavy equipment operator a good career?

If you were that kid that loved to play in the dirt and mud, a career as a heavy equipment operator could be your dream job. Not only is this job currently in high demand, but it can also provide great pay. According to many operators, it is the best job they have ever had.

What skills do you need to be a heavy equipment operator?

Top 10 Skills Needed for Heavy Equipment Operators

• Heavy Equipment Experience.
• Construction Experience.
• Excavators.
• Backhoe.
• Road Transportation.
• CDL.
• Dozer.
• Loading Experience.

Which heavy equipment operators make the most money?

Best-Paying States for Equipment Operators The states and districts that pay Equipment Operators the highest mean salary are New York ($83,840), Illinois ($79,330), Hawaii ($78,500), New Jersey ($78,120), and California ($75,440).

How much do big equipment operators make?

At the big-picture level, heavy equipment operators will enjoy a median salary of $65,657 — across all equipment and experience levels — according to data collected as of Feb. 26, 2021. Approximately 50 percent of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $54,889 to $74,493.

What qualifications are needed to become a heavy equipment operator?

Earn a high school diploma or GED. Heavy equipment operators need a high school diploma or GED to enter an apprenticeship or technical school.

How long does it take to become a heavy equipment operator?

Students seeking to become a heavy equipment operator can apply to a certificate program, usually offered by a community college or trade school. The program usually takes eight weeks to complete.

Where can I go to learn heavy equipment operation?

Aspiring individual who wants to learn heavy equipment operation can apply for an apprenticeship in the nearest local of International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) in your area. The association such as the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) also offers such program. Some technical schools also offer apprenticeship course.

Do you need a license to operate heavy equiptment?

As a heavy equipment operator, you must have these two licenses: driver’s license and commercial driver’s license (CDL). It broadens your career potentials. It is prerequisite in obtaining a full CDL license. To get a permit, you need to pass the written tests. Take the practice driving in a commercial vehicle with the driver holding a CDL.