JOB DESCRIPTION

Use machinery to move construction materials, earth and other heavy materials at construction sites by moving levers or foot pedals, operating switches, or turning dials.

SKILLS AND APTITUDES NEEDED

Mechanical aptitude Good physical condition and sense of balance Good eye-hand-foot coordination and ability to judge distance May require the ability to work at heights

Construction equipment operators use trench excavators, road graders, and similar equipment to clear and grade land to prepare it for construction of roads, buildings, and neighborhoods and may operate machinery that applies asphalt and concrete to roads and other structures. They may operate excavation and loading machines equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets that dig sand, gravel, earth, or similar materials and load it into trucks or onto conveyors. Sometimes they may drive and control industrial trucks or tractors equipped with forklifts or booms for lifting materials or with hitches for pulling trailers.

In addition to controlling the equipment, operators also set up and inspect the equipment, make adjustments, and perform some maintenance and minor repairs.

Operating heavy construction equipment can be dangerous but, as with most machinery, accidents generally can be avoided by observing proper operating procedures and safety practices.