A career in heavy equipment operation presents new and unique
challenge every day. It also guarantees outdoor, out-of-cubicle work,
which is a big draw to many. As the economy grows, so do job
opportunities in this field, and the best way to be a part of the
industry is to gain certification. Experience is no longer enough to get
the highest paying heavy equipment jobs.
Specific qualities and skills that are helpful in gaining certification include hand/eye/foot coordination, fast reaction time, good vision with or without corrective lenses and excellent depth perception.
Bear in mind that operating heavy equipment is more than simply working the vehicle. In order to keep the job site safe, operators must be able to calculate loads. The most effective operators can read and interpret blueprints and plans. High-quality programs generally take three to four years to complete because they include a hands-on component.
Joining a state-recognized heavy equipment apprenticeship program is a great next step to becoming certified, as most offer career development that includes a path to certification. This is the best option if you plan to work in an area of the country that is heavily unionized, as you are more likely to gain employment once you are certified. You may be paid for your work while in the program.
It is possible to gain certification without securing one of the competitive apprenticeship spots through enrollment in a nationally recognized program. Some programs offer the option to complete classroom training online, which often means substantial savings on tuition. Once you have verified that your program is accredited, do some research to determine where graduates are employed. Instead of choosing a program based on price or convenience, choose based on the institution preferred by your future employers to ensure that you will have plenty of work once you have been awarded heavy equipment certification.
Note that many programs require a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll. For certification, you must be at least 18 years of age, and states often require individuals to pass a physical examination. You can expect drug testing, and you will be required to abide by specific substance abuse policies.
Once classroom instruction and hands-on training is complete, students are required to pass a written and a practical examination, similar to a road test, in order to be granted the credential.
For additional information on apprenticeship and certification programs, consult industry organizations, such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). These organizations will provide you with a list of accredited institutions authorized to offer heavy equipment education, such as trade schools and community colleges. Your state Department of Transportation and local trade unions are an excellent source of information as well.
Specific qualities and skills that are helpful in gaining certification include hand/eye/foot coordination, fast reaction time, good vision with or without corrective lenses and excellent depth perception.
Types of Heavy Equipment Certification
Though there is no doubt that hours spent in the seat during on-the-job training are highly valuable opportunities to learn heavy equipment operation, the benefits of certification cannot be duplicated. By complementing your on-the-job training with certification, you gain a complete understanding of the machines you are working with, including:- All-Terrain Forklifts
- Backhoes
- Bulldozers
- Excavators
- Front End Loaders
- Graders
- Rock Trucks
- Scrapers
- Skid Steer Loaders
- Wheel Loaders
Bear in mind that operating heavy equipment is more than simply working the vehicle. In order to keep the job site safe, operators must be able to calculate loads. The most effective operators can read and interpret blueprints and plans. High-quality programs generally take three to four years to complete because they include a hands-on component.
Steps to Becoming Certified in Heavy Equipment Operation
Most heavy equipment operators start by earning their CDL license, which permits drivers to operate vehicles weighing 26,001 pounds or more. The CDL also authorizes operators to transport hazardous materials. Among other things, this makes you more valuable to employers, as you are able to drive the large trucks and tow the trailers that are needed to transport heavy equipment to the job site.Joining a state-recognized heavy equipment apprenticeship program is a great next step to becoming certified, as most offer career development that includes a path to certification. This is the best option if you plan to work in an area of the country that is heavily unionized, as you are more likely to gain employment once you are certified. You may be paid for your work while in the program.
It is possible to gain certification without securing one of the competitive apprenticeship spots through enrollment in a nationally recognized program. Some programs offer the option to complete classroom training online, which often means substantial savings on tuition. Once you have verified that your program is accredited, do some research to determine where graduates are employed. Instead of choosing a program based on price or convenience, choose based on the institution preferred by your future employers to ensure that you will have plenty of work once you have been awarded heavy equipment certification.
Note that many programs require a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll. For certification, you must be at least 18 years of age, and states often require individuals to pass a physical examination. You can expect drug testing, and you will be required to abide by specific substance abuse policies.
Once classroom instruction and hands-on training is complete, students are required to pass a written and a practical examination, similar to a road test, in order to be granted the credential.
What’s Next?
Once you have been certified in heavy equipment, you may wish to enhance your career with additional certifications for advanced equipment, such as tower cranes and mobile cranes. Generally, each of your certifications is valid for five years, at which time you will have to renew by passing a recertification exam and/or meeting a certain number of hours on the job.For additional information on apprenticeship and certification programs, consult industry organizations, such as the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) and the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). These organizations will provide you with a list of accredited institutions authorized to offer heavy equipment education, such as trade schools and community colleges. Your state Department of Transportation and local trade unions are an excellent source of information as well.