Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
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.
Common Job Titles
- Equipment Operator (EO)
- Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO)
- Machine Operator
- Operating Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate heavy construction equipment including bulldozers, excavators, motor graders, and front-end loaders on construction sites to excavate, move, and grade earth according to project specifications.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate multiple equipment control systems and hydraulic mechanisms to perform precise earthmoving and grading operations under time constraints.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance indicators and site conditions to determine compliance with safety standards and project specifications.Proficient
- Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of depth and grade control in excavation and grading operations following engineering specifications with precision in varied terrain conditions.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with operational efficiency goals when coordinating work activities with ground crews and other construction personnel.Proficient
- KnowledgeEstimate material volumes, excavation depths, and project timelines using mathematical calculations and field measurements to support project scheduling.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and field repairs on construction machinery using mechanical knowledge and hand/power tools to minimize equipment downtime.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze site plans, grade stakes, and project blueprints to determine optimal equipment operation sequences and material movement strategies.Developing
- KnowledgeAssess equipment malfunctions and mechanical issues through systematic troubleshooting to determine repair priorities and operational readiness.Developing
- Hands-onExecute specialized attachments and equipment configurations including backhoe attachments, pavers, and compactors for diverse construction applications.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in pre-job safety meetings and hazard identification processes collaborating with supervisors and crew members to maintain worksite safety standards.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
469,270
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $40,080. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,780. 50th percentile: U.S. $58,710. 75th percentile: U.S. $75,750. 90th percentile: U.S. $100,690. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $40,080 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $100,690 |
| Workers on average earn | $65,180 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical3.6/5
- English Language3.3/5
- Public Safety and Security3.1/5
- Mathematics2.8/5
- Administration and Management2.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Windows
Technology Skills
- Maintenance record software
- Work record software
Tools & Equipment
- 15-ton truck cranes
- 18-ton hydraulic cranes
- 20-ton tractors
- Adjustable wrenches
- Aeroil propane kettles
- Air compressors
- Angle dozers
- Aquatic weed harvesters