Detailed Guide forOperating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators in CaliforniaMay also be called: Backhoe Operators; Excavator Operators; Grader Operators; Heavy Equipment Operators; Loader Operators; Motor Grader Operators; and Track Hoe Operators
What Would I Do?
Whenever big construction equipment is hard at work, it draws a crowd. Maybe it’s just human nature, but it seems like everyone likes to watch huge machines crush, smash, pulverize, pound, or demolish whatever is in the way. Taming these monster machines is the job of Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators.
Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites to move earth and large objects around. These machines dig, scrape, cut, and move dirt, rocks, stones, and boulders. They operate equipment that clears and grades land to prepare it for construction of roads, buildings, and bridges. Operators also use these machines to dig trenches to lay or repair sewer and other pipelines. Some equipment is designed to move construction materials from where they were delivered to where the workers need them. Other equipment is designed to smash rocks, boulders, buildings, and other things that need to be demolished. These machines include bulldozers, backhoes, graders, trench diggers, excavators, loaders, rollers, pumps, tractors, and scrapers, among others.
Operating Engineers control equipment by moving levers, pushing foot pedals, operating switches, and moving joysticks. Besides operating the controls of these impressive machines, Operating Engineers also set up and inspect the equipment, make adjustments, perform routine maintenance, and make minor repairs.
Important Tasks and Related Skills
Each task below is matched to a sample skill required to carry out the task.
| View the skill definitions |
| Task | Skill Used in this Task |
|---|
| Take actions to avoid potential hazards and obstructions such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, and falling objects. | Public Safety and Security |
| Adjust handwheels and depress pedals to control attachments such as blades, buckets, scrapers, and swing booms. | Control Precision |
| Start engines, move throttles, switches, and levers, and depress pedals to operate machines such as bulldozers, trench excavators, road graders, and backhoes. | Multilimb Coordination |
| Align machines, cutterheads, or depth gauge makers with reference stakes and guidelines or ground, or position equipment following hand signals of other workers. | Mechanical |
| Load and move dirt, rocks, equipment, and materials, using trucks, crawler tractors, power cranes, shovels, graders, and related equipment. | Equipment Selection |
| Drive and maneuver equipment equipped with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation, and rocks, and to distribute and level earth or terrain. | Manual Dexterity |
| Coordinate machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members. | Active Listening |
| Operate tractors and bulldozers to perform such tasks as clearing land, mixing sludge, trimming backfills, and building roadways and parking lots. | Operation and Control |
| Repair and maintain equipment, making emergency adjustments or assisting with major repairs as necessary. | Equipment Maintenance |
| Locate underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work. | Building and Construction |
|
Skill Definitions
Below is a definition for each skill.
| View the tasks to skills list |
| Skill | Definition |
|---|
| Public Safety and Security | Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions. |
| Control Precision | The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions. |
| Multilimb Coordination | The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion. |
| Mechanical | Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. |
| Equipment Selection | Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. |
| Manual Dexterity | The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects. |
| Active Listening | Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. |
| Operation and Control | Controlling operations of equipment or systems. |
| Equipment Maintenance | Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed. |
| Building and Construction | Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads. |
|
Working Conditions
The work performed by Operating Engineers is physically demanding and is usually performed outdoors in almost all weather conditions; however, heavy rain, snow, or high winds can suspend construction operations. Dusty working locations are common. Some equipment has an enclosed cab or operating area, which may be heated and air-conditioned. Machinery can be very noisy and may shake or jolt the Operator. They must always be alert for other workers and for dangerous conditions, such as overturning the equipment, touching electrical power lines, or dropping heavy objects. Accidents can usually be avoided by observing industry operating procedures and safety practices.
Operating Engineers generally work a 40-hour week. Due to the seasonal nature of the job, they may work fewer hours in the winter and frequent overtime in the summer. They may also work irregular hours, as some construction projects must be performed at night. Some construction projects are in remote locations; therefore, the Operator may be away from home for extended periods of time.
Union membership requirements depend upon whether the contractor in charge of the project has an agreement with a labor union. When union Operators are required, they may belong to the International Union of Operating Engineers. Those working for the government may join a public employee union.
Will This Job Fit Me?
The job of Operating Engineer will appeal to those who enjoy being outdoors and doing activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. This occupation satisfies those with realistic interests. Realistic occupations often deal with real-world materials, such as wood, tools, and machinery and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
What Wages and Benefits Can I Expect?
Wages
The median wage in 2021 for Operating Engineers in California was $79,367 annually, or $38.16 hourly. The median is the point at which half of the workers earn more and half earn less.
Benefits
Operating Engineers covered by union contracts and those working for government agencies generally receive medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as vacation, holiday, and retirement benefits. Self-employed Operators must provide their own benefits.
What is the Job Outlook?
Employment prospects in the field tend to follow construction activity. When there is high demand for residential, commercial, or infrastructure building (roads, bridges, and levees), there will be an increased demand for Operating Engineers. When construction slows, they may work fewer hours or have interrupted work schedules. Workers who can operate a variety of equipment will have the best job opportunities.
The need for Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators will come from the necessity to build and repair infrastructure.
Projections of Employment
In California, the number of Operating Engineers is expected to grow slower than average growth rate for all occupations. Jobs for Operating Engineers are expected to increase by 5.1 percent, or 1,500 jobs between 2018 and 2028.
Estimated Employment and Projected Growth
Operating Engineers |
|---|
Geographic Area
(Estimated Year-Projected Year) | Estimated
Employment | Projected
Employment | Numeric
Change | Percent
Change | Total Job
Openings |
|---|
California
(2018-2028) | 29,600 | 31,100 | 1,500 | 5.1 | 36,510 |
|
| View Projected Growth for All Areas |
How Do I Qualify?
Education, Training, and Other Requirements
Employers prefer to hire workers with a high school diploma or equivalent. Operating Engineers usually learn their skills on the job, but formal apprenticeship or vocational programs provide more comprehensive training. Private vocational schools offer instruction in the operation of various types of construction equipment. Much can be learned in the classroom; however, to become a skilled Operator, one must actually perform various tasks on the machinery. The best training facilities have equipment on-site so students can practice tasks they are learning in the classroom.
Operators must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid California driver license. They need to be in good physical condition, have a good sense of balance, the ability to judge distance, and good eye-hand-foot coordination. Some employers require a pre-employment background check, physical exam, and drug screening.
Certification is not required to work as an Operating Engineer, but certificates are available from vocational schools and apprenticeship programs. These certificates demonstrate that an Operator is able to handle specific types of equipment, which may provide a wider range of job opportunities.
Experience
Experience operating related equipment, such as farm tractors or heavy equipment in the armed forces or elsewhere, can be an asset.
Early Career Planning
High school preparation courses in auto, diesel, or farm machinery mechanics, science, mechanical drawing, metal shop, and mathematics are helpful for students interested in this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship programs are administered by the International Union of Operating Engineers, the Associated General Contractors of America, and community colleges. Programs require three to four years of on-the-job training plus related classroom instruction. Apprenticeship program applicants must be 18 years of age and possess a valid California driver license. Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. For more information on apprenticeships currently available, visit the State of California’s Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Apprenticeship Standards Web site at www.dir.ca.gov/das.
Continuing Education
There are currently no requirements for continuing education for journey-level Operators; however, improved technology creates a need for continuous training to learn new techniques and methods and to improve existing skills. Employers or equipment manufacturers may provide training. Union local training centers also offer continuing education to journey-level Operators.
Licensing
Employees work under the license of the employer/contractor. Self-employed Operators must be licensed by the State of California Contractors State License Board. Contact the agency that issues the license for additional information.Click on the license title below for details.
Where Can I Find Training?
There are two ways to search for training information:
- Search by Field of Study to find what programs are available and what schools offer those programs. You may use keywords such as: Construction, Earthmoving, Ground Transportation, and Heavy Equipment.
- Search by Training Provider to find schools by name, type of school, or location.
Contact the schools you are interested in to learn about the classes available, tuition and fees, and any prerequisite course work.
Where Would I Work?
The largest industries employing Operating Engineers are as follows:
| Industry Title | Percent of Total Employment for Occupation in California |
|---|
| Other Specialty Trade Contractors | 23.6% |
| Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction | 14.8% |
| Utility System Construction | 12.3% |
| Local Government | 9.2% |
| State Government | 8.2% |
|
Finding a Job
Direct application to employers remains one of the most effective job search methods. Newspaper classified ads and Internet job listings may also provide helpful local job leads. Operating Engineers who belong to a union can also find work through their local union hall. Online job opening systems include JobCentral at www.jobcentral.com and CalJOBSSM at www.caljobs.ca.gov.
To find your nearest One-Stop Career Center, go to Service Locator. View the helpful job search tips for more resources. (requires Adobe Reader).
Yellow Page Headings
You can focus your local job search by checking employers listed online or in your local telephone directory. Below are some suggested headings where you might find employers of Operating Engineers.
- Building Contractors
- Construction
- Demolition Contractors
- Excavating Contractors
- Government Offices
- Grading Contractors
- Home Builders
- Road Building Contractors
Find Possible Employers
To locate a list of employers in your area, go to "Find Employers" on the Labor Market Information Web site:
- Select one of the top industries that employ the occupation. This will give you a list of employers in that industry in your area.
- Click on "View Filter Selections" to limit your list to specific cities or employer size.
- Click on an employer for the street address, telephone number, size of business, Web site, etc.
- Contact the employer for possible employment.
Where Could This Job Lead?
Most advancement comes in the form of pay raises as Operators become more skilled in the operation of equipment. Those with proven ability or additional education or training may become forepersons, supervisors, or project managers. It is also possible to obtain a specialty contractor’s license from the California Contractors State Licensing Board, become self-employed, and bid on construction projects.
Related Occupations
Below is a list of occupations related to Operating Engineers with links to more information.
| Occupation | Occupational
Guide | Industry
Report | Occupational
Profile |
|---|
| Crane and Tower Operators | | | Profile |
| Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators | | | Profile |
| Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators | Guide | | |
| Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines | | | Profile |
| Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators | | | Profile |
| Pile-Driver Operators | | | Profile |
| Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators | | | Profile |
Other Sources
- California Department of Consumer Affairs - Contractors State License Board
www.cslb.ca.gov - California Department of Industrial Relations - Division of Apprenticeship Standards
www.dir.ca.gov/das - Associated General Contractors of America
www.acg.org - International Union of Operating Engineers
www.iuoe.org
These links are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement by EDD.
For the Career Professional
The following codes are provided to assist counselors, job placement workers, or other career professionals.
