How do they match: 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.

  • Align machines, cutterheads, or depth gauge makers with reference stakes and guidelines or ground or position equipment, following hand signals of other workers.
  • Drive and maneuver equipment equipped with blades in successive passes over working areas to remove topsoil, vegetation, or rocks or to distribute and level earth or terrain.
  • Locate underground services, such as pipes or wires, prior to beginning work.
  • Operate loaders to pull out stumps, rip asphalt or concrete, rough-grade properties, bury refuse, or perform general cleanup.
  • Perform specialized work, using equipment, such as pile drivers, dredging rigs, drillers, or concrete pumpers.
  • Take actions to avoid potential hazards or obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, or falling objects.
  • Talk to clients and study instructions, plans, or diagrams to establish work requirements.
  • Test atmosphere for adequate oxygen or explosive conditions when working in confined spaces.
  • Turn valves to control air or water output of compressors or pumps.

  • Operate pumps or compressors.
  • Remove debris or vegetation from work sites.
  • Review blueprints or specifications to determine work requirements.
  • Test air quality at work sites.