Heavy equipment operation is a skilled trades position that can provide a fulfilling career path.
Are you a licensed heavy equipment operator already? Maybe you’re considering this skilled trade as a career path? Either way, we can help you find a great job opportunity.
Have you ever wondered how to break into the field of heavy equipment operation? We have job hunters ask us that question all the time.
In this post, we’ll discuss:
- What are the requirements to become heavy equipment, or hoisting equipment, operator?
- What are the costs and time involved?
- What’s the career upside?
Let’s look at what an operator does and what types of equipment they operate. The job board giants at Indeed offered a pretty good definition:
A heavy equipment operator works in the construction industry to transport earth or other materials or to erect and install construction materials. Heavy equipment operators may lay down roadbeds and work with paving materials or they may prepare sites for construction. Operators know how to calculate appropriate loads and can read and follow blueprints and designs. They typically learn to maintain and ensure the proper use of machinery.
Heavy equipment operators may use various types of heavy machinery, including:
- Bulldozers
- Cranes
- Excavators
- Forklifts
- Loaders
- Backhoe
- Tractors
That’s a pretty accurate definition. And these are pretty cool jobs.
So what are the requirements to become heavy equipment, or hoisting equipment, operator?
You’ll normally need a high school diploma or GED. But that requirement can sometimes be waived or substituted with experience.
You will need to complete a training course that’s both hands-on and classroom-based. This training will help you pass the state exam requirement and give you some in-seat experience that your future employer will want to see.
What are the costs and time involved?
Depending on your level of experience, the entire training course can take three to ten weeks to complete. The state test usually costs $75-$150 and takes several hours to complete. There are also test prep classes available for around $400.
The training course can cost between $4000 and $20,000, depending on the number and types of equipment you want to get certified on. This typically doesn’t include travel and lodging expenses, if applicable.
Tuition assistance is often available and employers will sometimes pay a good portion of the costs.
What’s the career upside?
We have unfilled jobs posted right now and companies are looking for heavy equipment operators all over New England. Pay ranges typically from $18 – $45 an hour.
Operator jobs can provide fun, fulfilling career opportunities with great pay and benefits.
Does a career as a heavy equipment operator sound like something you’d like to pursue?
Skilled Trades Partners is not your typical skilled trades construction recruitment agency. We are built on blue-collar respect! You are worth full benefits like vacation, sick days, holiday pay, medical/dental insurance, and a ton of much-deserved perks. We PARTNER with you at STP.
Tell us about your career path and the kinds of projects and companies you are looking for. We’ll connect you with quality contractors and projects that match your skills and expectations.
Are you a tradesman looking for a new job opportunity? Or maybe you’re looking for a change of scenery on a new project or location?
Or get in touch online. Our expert skilled trades recruiters are waiting for your call.