How to Become a Construction Equipment Operator

Overview & Salaries

Recommended Degree:
The right degree for you to become a construction equipment operator depends on the industry and company you apply for. Those looking for an entry positions need a to go through some sort of on the job training or getting formal training at a trade school. You may also need a license to operate certain machinery.

Begin your career path today by signing up for free information from one of our accredited schools below that offer programs to help get you started as a construction equipment operator.

How Much Does a Construction Equipment Operator Make? 
$40,980 (national median salary, to view salaries in your state click on the “Best Places to Work” tab)

Expected Growth from 2012-2020:
+78,200 additional people employed

Specialization Options:
Power tools, heavy machines, mining machines, and tower and crane operator

(all information above provided by the 2012 BLS Construction Equipment Operators page) 

The Best Places to Become a Construction Equipment Operator

Construction equipment operators hold more than 400,000 jobs and the following industries employ the most workers:

  • State and local government, excluding education and hospitals 21%
  • Highway, street, and bridge construction 14%
  • Utility system construction 10%
  • Other specialty trade contractors 22%

Employment and Information Data for Construction Equipment Operations

Why Become a Construction Equipment Operator?

As the construction industry continues to develop some steam, so has the demand for construction equipment operators which is predicted to increase 23% from now until 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics. The men and women who move these massive machines are highly trained and well paid professionals. While the construction industry continues to growth throughout the United States, the demand for experienced construction equipment operators will grow right along with it. The median annual wage of construction equipment operators was $39,460, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Recommended Courses to Help You Become a Construction Equipment Operations

  • Construction Theory
  • Basic Heavy Equipment Operation
  • Class-A CDL Truck Driving Class
  • Heavy Equipment Safety
  • Introduction to Earthmoving
  • Excavation Math
  • Civil Blueprint Reading
  • Crain Training

Degree Options for Construction Equipment Operations Careers

Training certificates and Associate
Training certification instructs on both operation and basic maintenance of heavy equipment including earth movers, trucks, forklifts, cranes and most equipment found on construction sites.