Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator Job Description

Heavy equipment refers to the set of machines or vehicles which is used for the purpose of construction, mining or digging earth. Because of its big size, heavy weight and critical operating methods, handling and operating such equipment require specialized skills. Heavy equipment operator responsibilities are carried out by a skilled person who does this job with safety and precision. He/she also has the responsibility of cleaning, maintaining and servicing the equipment periodically to increase its life.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Heavy Equipment Operator

• Provide support to successful completion of construction and mining work
• Operate all heavy equipment like earth movers, bulldozers, front-end loaders, and other related equipment.
• Operate the equipment in the right direction and angles to prevent accidents and damage of property.
• Ensure and manage the machines or equipment in a safe and secure way.
• Perform periodical safety, maintenance or servicing checks to ensure proper functioning of the equipment.
• Perform minor repair works during functioning problems
• Inform and advise the management or repairmen for major repairs or maintenance
• Drive and control the equipment
• Perform road work, excavation work, lifting work, etc.
• Respond to signals and directions by the staff and work in coordination with them
• Maintain proper coordination and cooperation with the road and transport system while driving/working, so that the normal activities are not disrupted.
• Operate the equipment manually and also through the use of electronic or technical methods of operation.
• Work in adherence to safe practices, procedures, work site or traffic laws.
• Perform other duties, as and when assigned

Knowledge Requirement

A heavy equipment operator must possess knowledge to perform his/her job satisfactorily. The essential criteria must include the knowledge of:

• Heavy equipment operation
• Maintenance and repair of heavy and power-driven equipment
• New methods and techniques of operation and the parts of the equipment
• Workplace safety practices
• Both manual and electronic operations

Skills and Abilities

• Must have physical ability to stand strenuous and dangerous work environmental
• Possess physical strength to operate heavy and power-driven equipment
• Ability to work in teams
• Ability to communicate and interact both verbally and written
• A keen eye to details and good decision making skills
• Manage to handle emergency situations, work pressure and stress
• Ability to complete work projects on time and in an effective manner
• Possess a deep analytical understanding and problem solving skills
• Devoted in following code of ethics
• Can work independently with minimum supervision
• Good relationship building ability
• Flexible to work during odd hours

Training and Educational Qualification

A heavy equipment operator should possess a high school diploma as the minimum educational criteria. Degrees or courses from vocational schools in construction equipment operation and maintenance add an extra edge.

This job entails a rigorous on-the-job training. Employers arrange for training classes to help sharpen skills and attain essential knowledge of equipment, operation and specific technologies.

Working Condition

Heavy Equipment Operators are exposed to a work environment which comprises heat, cold, dust, rain, pollution and toxic atmosphere. Thus, they need to protect themselves and take necessary precautions.

The most important criteria for a heavy equipment operator is to have a strong physical ability and strength to carry out the daily strenuous activities.