Operating Engineers

Overview

Operating Engineers

Introduction

Operating engineers operate various types of power-driven construction machines such as shovels, cranes, tractors, bulldozers, pile drivers, concrete mixers, and pumps. There are approximately 450,370 operating engineers and other construction equipment operators employed in the United States.

Quick Facts


Median Salary

$56,160

Employment Prospects

Good

Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma|Some Postsecondary Training


Experience

Apprenticeship or on-the-job training


Skills

Building/Trades|Math|Mechanical/Manual Dexterity


Personality Traits

Hands On|Realistic|Technical

Earnings

The median annual salary in May 2023 for all operating engineers and other construction equipment operators was $56,160, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Salaries ranged from less than $38,410 to more than $95,570 a year.

Often, workers are paid by the hour. Rates vary according to the area of the country and the employer. In highway, street, and bridge construction, the ...

Work Environment

Operating engineers consider dirt and noise a part of their jobs. Some of the machines on which they work constantly shake and jolt them. This constant movement, along with the strenuous, outdoor nature of the work, makes this a physically tiring job. Since the work is done almost entirely outdoors in almost any kind of weather, operating engineers must be willing to work under conditions that ...

Outlook

Employment of construction equipment operators is projected to grow by 4 percent, as fast as the average for all careers, through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Job opportunities for pile-drivers will be slightly better, growing faster than the average for all careers. There will be many opportunities for operating engineers. They will be needed to assist with the repair of hi...