What Is an Excavator Operator and How to Become One
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What Is an Excavator Operator?
As an excavator operator, you control the heavy equipment that moves dirt, sand, and other materials on construction sites. In addition to operating the excavator machine, your job duties are to perform routine maintenance on your excavator and coordinate with your supervisor for major repairs. Since your heavy machinery will move earth, rubble, and debris around the construction sites at your jobs, you need to communicate with the site supervisor and other construction workers to ensure everyone’s safety while you’re operating the excavator.
How to Become an Excavator Operator
To pursue a career as an excavator operator, you need a high school diploma along with post-secondary training. You can earn your qualifications for the job through an apprenticeship program or on-the-job training. You may need to get a commercial driver’s license if you have to haul the excavator to construction sites on a tractor-trailer truck. Your training will teach you the safety skills and responsibilities that go along with operating heavy equipment—like excavators—at construction job sites.
Excavator Operator Job Description Sample
With this Excavator Operator job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Excavator Operator role.
Job Summary
Our construction company is looking for an Excavator Operator to move dirt and other materials on the job site. Our ideal candidate has completed a relevant apprenticeship, but we consider all individuals possessing the appropriate skillset. You must be able to coordinate and collaborate with other workers and supervisors on-site, so clear communication skills are crucial. You should have the skills to operate most pieces of heavy equipment, such as a loader, dozer, or backhoe. Trucking experience, including experience with both driving and loading and unloading materials, is also a plus.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Remove dirt from the building area
- Unload excavator in the appropriate area
- Coordinate with other workers to determine dig sites
- Conduct routine maintenance on your equipment
Requirements and Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Completed apprenticeship preferred
- Vehicle and heavy equipment maintenance experience
- Communication skills
- Physical stamina
