How can I learn to operate heavy equipment?
David Craig
Updated on April 04, 2026
Heavy equipment operators may get their start working on a construction crew to gain experience or enroll in an apprenticeship to learn while working….
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Enter and complete heavy equipment training.
- Earn licenses or certifications.
- Obtain a commercial driver’s license.
How long does it take to get certified to operate heavy equipment?
Essential Information
| Program Level | Certificate |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Other Requirements | CDL license |
| Program Length | 8 weeks for a certificate program; hybrid program lengths may vary |
| Projected Job Growth (2018-2028)* | 10% (for operating engineers and other construction equipment operators) |
How much do you get paid to operate heavy equipment?
Heavy equipment operators (except crane)
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Starting | $16.54 | $25.63 |
| Overall | $16.54 | $30.77 |
| Top | $19.15 | $36.15 |
How long does it take to learn to operate a excavator?
How long does it take to learn to operate an excavator? You can learn to operate an excavator in three weeks at an excavator school like HEC. You’ll get to practice on excavators and other equipment like backhoes, skid steers and wheel loaders.
Is a heavy equipment operator a good career?
If you were that kid that loved to play in the dirt and mud, a career as a heavy equipment operator could be your dream job. Not only is this job currently in high demand, but it can also provide great pay. According to many operators, it is the best job they have ever had.
How much does ATS training cost?
Heavy Equipment Operators averaged $49,100 a year in 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Below is the total tuition cost and other fees for National Training’s Heavy Equipment Operator course….Heavy Now — Course #29.
| Training | $12,995.00 |
|---|---|
| Total Tuition | $12,995.00 |
Do you need a CDL to drive a bulldozer?
Certification and License Requirements. The BLS reports that a bulldozer operator may need a commercial driver’s license to haul equipment to a construction site. States may also individually require and offer licensure, which designates professionals as eligible for employment.
Do heavy equipment operators make good money?
At the big-picture level, heavy equipment operators will enjoy a median salary of $65,657 — across all equipment and experience levels — according to data collected as of Feb. 26, 2021. Approximately 50 percent of all heavy equipment jobs will have an annual salary ranging from $54,889 to $74,493.
How much money does an excavator make?
Salary Ranges for Excavator Operators The salaries of Excavator Operators in the US range from $26,670 to $98,000 , with a median salary of $40,050 . The middle 60% of Excavator Operators makes between $40,050 and $55,739, with the top 80% making $98,000.
How do you become a heavy equipment operator?
There are three ways to become a heavy equipment operator. Individuals can complete a union apprenticeship, a state apprenticeship program or go to a college or technical school. Most states require apprentices to be registered with the state.
Where can I go to learn heavy equipment operation?
Aspiring individual who wants to learn heavy equipment operation can apply for an apprenticeship in the nearest local of International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) in your area. The association such as the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) also offers such program. Some technical schools also offer apprenticeship course.
What are the requirements for a heavy equipment operator?
Heavy equipment operators use heavy equipment in a variety of settings, but primarily in the construction of roads, buildings, and many other structures. Heavy equipment operators are usually required to possess a commercial driver’s license and may also be required to have a high school diploma and complete equipment training.
Do you need a license to operate heavy equiptment?
As a heavy equipment operator, you must have these two licenses: driver’s license and commercial driver’s license (CDL). It broadens your career potentials. Age is also a requirement. It is illegal to hire job candidates below the minimum legal age.
