Equipment Operator Jobs

Construction equipment operators, also known as operating engineers, manage heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, and excavators used in construction, mining, and roadbuilding projects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for this occupation was $58,320 in May 2024, equivalent to a median hourly wage of $28.04, with half of workers earning more and half earning less. The mean annual wage was higher at $62,180, reflecting variability across regions and experience levels.

Employment in this field is projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations, with approximately 46,200 openings expected annually due to replacements and moderate growth. The occupation typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and moderate-term on-the-job training, making it accessible for entry-level workers seeking stable careers in infrastructure development.