Người vận hành thiết bị xây dựng

Lịch làm việc

• Construction Equipment Operators work at least 40 hours a week, with overtime common. Night or weekend shifts may be expected. 

Nhiệm vụ tiêu biểu

• Operate heavy equipment, sometimes as part of a coordinated effort with other operators
• Prepare sites for new construction or modifications, repairs, and additions to existing sites
• Depending on duties: dig, scoop, and move dirt, gravel, or sand; remove stumps; tear up old asphalt; smooth over surfaces; pave and surface roads; drive wood or metal beams into the ground 
• Keep equipment clean and free from dirt, rocks, or grime that impacts performance
• Inspect equipment; conduct general maintenance and repairs
• Annotate problem logs; report issues if the equipment needs higher-level repairs
• Practice safety protocols and report hazards and mishaps    
• Follow guidance on machine alignment and positioning
• Use hand signal or audio communications with co-workers about equipment movements    

Trách nhiệm bổ sung

• Identify locations of any underground materials to avoid or work around
• Ensure machines are properly fueled and lubricated, as necessary
• Work with on-site supervisors; assist with planning and cost estimation, if needed  
• If working in a confined space area, ensure sufficient oxygen is present

Kỹ năng mềm

• Ability to focus for long periods
• Ability to pass background check/drug screening, for some jobs
• Careful listening
• Bình tĩnh dưới áp lực
• Good with following directions
• Độc lập
• Tính toàn vẹn
• Giải quyết vấn đề 
• Thể lực và sức chịu đựng
• Đàn hồi
• Safety-conscious 
• Solid work ethic
• Team-oriented
• Quản lý thời gian 
• Troubleshooting 

Kỹ năng kỹ thuật

• Arm and hand steadiness 
• Comfortable with heights, in some cases
• Thời gian phản ứng nhanh 
• Finger dexterity
• Good vision with normal color vision and depth perception
• Hand-eye-foot coordination
• Mechanical skills; knowledge of equipment maintenance 
• Operation monitoring
• Tốc độ tri giác 
• Precision

• Các cơ quan chính phủ và quân đội
• Xây dựng kỹ thuật hạng nặng và dân dụng    
• Nhà thầu thương mại đặc biệt    

Work is outdoors, in all types of weather conditions including rain and cold in many, but not all, situations. Sites are often dirty, dusty, loud, and smelly from equipment fumes. Construction Equipment Operators may need to travel to far away sites, so commute time is a factor unless workers are temporarily asked to live on or near the site. 

The work entails many hazards, so it’s vital to always practice safety procedures and wear applicable protective equipment. Even with precautions taken, injuries can happen, including repetitive stress injuries from doing a particular task over and over. Hours can get long and there’s sometimes pressure to work faster in an effort to reduce costs so a project can stay within budget. However, workers are expected to perform their jobs correctly and not take shortcuts that impact quality or safety. 

New construction projects are always in the works, and existing sites are constantly being upgraded or repaired. Meanwhile, roads and bridges require continual maintenance to ensure they’re safe to use. As a result, Construction Equipment Operators can expect steady work in the coming decade. Still, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) only anticipates a 4% growth, meaning that while requirements will be stable, openings for new workers aren’t expected to rise much. Most will be due to workers switching careers or retiring, making room for new employees to enter the field. 

Versatility is a key factor in being competitive. Those who can operate more than one kind of machine will have an edge, provided there is no decrease in ability and performance. BLS also expects that workers who complete apprenticeships will have an advantage in the job market, with most work available in metropolitan areas. It’s important to remember that job opportunities can spike during warmer seasons, since inclement weather slows construction. 

It’s likely that Construction Equipment Operators always enjoyed being outside, not afraid to get a bit dirty. Many also had an early affinity for vehicles and engines, and might have spent a few hours tinkering in the garage. They enjoy learning how mechanical things work and have an aptitude for figuring things out. Another early trait of a future operator is motivation to get things done. Construction Equipment Operators don’t work in theories and ideas; they literally get their hands on equipment to make things physically happen, and you can see the tangible results of their hard work!