What an Operating Engineer Does
Operating Engineers are the persons who operate and maintain various types of power driven construction machines, such as bulldozers, cranes, pumps, pile drivers, asphalt and concrete plants, derricks, rollers, grades, pavers, and tractors which dig, scrape and move great amounts of earth and hoist building materials. Some machines require the operators to turn valves, adjust hand wheels and press pedals to drive the machines and control the attachments. Other machines, such as cranes, require the constant use of both hands and both feet. Operating Engineers may also be required to service their machines and move the machines from one construction site to another.
Working Conditions
Operating Engineers should enjoy working with machines and equipment and be mechanically inclined. They must be able to do routine, repetitive work and work either as a team on large projects or work alone. They should be able to withstand the jolting and vibration of the machines and must have an interest in and the ability to learn correct methods of handling the powerful equipment in a safe manner. The job demands good eyesight, muscular coordination and depth perception.
Interest And Temperament
All work is performed in the open, except for a few machines equipped with enclosed cabs. Earth-excavating and grading equipment operators and road-building equipment operators generally work from early spring until the fall freeze and shut down only when it rains. The work might be dusty and dirty and they may have to travel long distances to work.
Apprentice Wage Range: $15,240 - $34,290
Journeyman Wage Range: $38,100 - $49,050
For More Information Contact:
Operating Engineers Local 103 JAC (260) 483-9535
Home Builders Association (260) 420-2020
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