Construction equipment operators drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads, bridges, buildings, and other structures.

Construction equipment operators work in nearly all weather conditions. Workers often get dirty, greasy, muddy, or dusty. The vast majority of operators work full time, and some operators have irregular hours. Some construction projects, especially road building, are done at night.

Many workers learn equipment operation on the job after earning a high school diploma or equivalent, while others learn through an apprenticeship or by attending vocational schools.

The median annual wage for construction equipment operators was $43,810 in May 2015.

Employment of construction equipment operators is projected to grow 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. Spending on infrastructure is expected to increase, resulting in many new positions over the next ten years. Workers who can operate multiple types of equipment should have the best job opportunities.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for construction equipment operators.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of construction equipment operators with similar occupations.

Learn more about construction equipment operators by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.