The construction industry is always on the lookout for operators who can work heavy equipment and pays them well. If you wish to become an operator of heavy equipment or heavy duty vehicles such as bulldozers and excavators designed for the construction industry, you have to fulfill certain requirements including licensing.

Apart from the construction industry there are also opportunities of working in ports, mines and large manufacturing factories. Operators however need to be conversant with the basic operations and functions of each heavy duty vehicle in order to be able to operate it safely and accurately.

The first step however is to join a training program that will teach you how to operate these machines. These courses students are taught to operate practically all the machines that fall under the category of heavy equipment. These include but not limited to cranes, excavators, wheel loaders, bulldozers, backhoes and front-end loaders. Students are taught the basic functions of each machine as well as how to maintain and perform basic repairs.

Students are first introduced to smaller and easy to handle machines. Once they get conversant with these, they move to the next level where they learn how to operate heavier and more complex machines. A good training program would also provide industry specific knowledge. Students are taught the basics of reading blueprints, landscaping, pipe laying and mining and allied industries. Most courses are of one year duration. On completion you acquire the necessary skills and become a professional heavy equipment operator.

As part of the training program you may be required to work with a construction or mining or any other company that uses heavy equipment. This is necessary not only for practicing your skills but also for getting the much needed experience in operating different types of heavy equipment.

Once you are awarded a technical degree or a certificate, you can then apply for a commercial driver’s license. Call the Department of Labor in your state to ask for the licensing requirements that you need to fulfill. Most states require a written and/or practical test before awarding a CDL. IN some states there are separate licensing requirements for specific situations such as landfill operations. Your training will come in handy and you will find that you can pass the test easily. If you hold a Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) you stand a better chance of gaining employment with big companies.