People that enjoy using machinery may wish to pursue a career as a heavy equipment operator. This job involves the use of machine to transport materials, cultivate the earth, excavate, and remove debris. A certain level of education in this field will help an individual to find a job, and there are several schools that will teach necessary skills to potential heavy equipment operators.
Typical Heavy Equipment Operating Courses
There are a variety of courses that a heavy equipment operator may choose to take, although the exact curriculum will depend on the school and program that a person pursues. Some examples include:
- Equipment Preventative Maintenance
- Tractors
- Backhoes
- Basic Safety
- Dump Trucks
- Loaders
- Graders
Heavy equipment operation certifications will tell a potential employer that a student has the skills and experiences to get the job done. One highly reputable certification comes from the National Center for Construction Education and Research, and this will give employers confidence that they are hiring the right person for the job.
Career Outlook for Heavy Equipment Operators
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for construction equipment and heavy machinery operators is expected to stay high through 2014.However, job candidates often choose to learn on the job rather than enrolling in a training programs. Jobsite training will help get a person started in their career, but training and certification will help to make an employee highly-valued and will increase the odds that they will obtain a good paying job.
Average Salary in Heavy Equipment Operating
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual salary for industrial machinery mechanics was $44,470 in 2009. The top 10% of workers will make $66,660 a year.