Excavator operators play a vital role in the construction industry. As an excavator operator, you get to work on exciting projects while operating heavy machinery. However, becoming a successful excavator operator requires dedication and strategic planning. This article provides tips on maximizing your career as an excavator operator.
The Demand for Excavator Operators
The construction industry is booming, especially with increased infrastructure projects across the country. This high demand has led to excavator operators being in short supply. As an excavator operator, you have a unique opportunity to launch a lucrative and stable career in an industry that will provide job security for years to come. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 16% employment growth for excavating and loading machine operators between 2020-2030, faster than the average across all occupations.
Getting the Required Training
Operating excavators requires specialized skills that you can only gain through proper training. Most excavator operator jobs require candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You also need to complete a formal training program to acquire an operator’s license. Some community colleges and private institutions offer excavator operation courses that range from a few weeks to a year.
The training equips you with technical knowledge on aspects like:
- Safety procedures when operating excavators
- Understanding technical excavator features and capabilities
- Performing routine excavator maintenance
- Developing coordination when using excavator attachments
- Improving digging technique and precision
Gaining On-Site Experience
Classroom training gives you a foundation, but you need on-site experience to become proficient. Entry-level excavator operator roles provide supervised site experience that helps refine your skills. Be keen to observe and learn from senior operators. Volunteer for extra tasks that give you more seat time on excavators. This hands-on experience develops your confidence and competency operating excavators.
Expanding Your Capabilities
The construction sector needs versatile excavator operators due to the diversity of projects. You increase your employability by gaining experience with different excavator types and attachments. Entry-level roles expose you to standard excavators, but also seek opportunities to get experience with mini excavators, demolition excavators, and forest excavators.
In addition, train to competently handle different excavator attachments like:
- Buckets – For digging and lifting loose material
- Hydraulic hammers – For breaking concrete and rocks
- Augers – For boring holes in the ground
- Grapples – For lifting awkward loads
- Compactors – For compressing materials like landfill
This expanded capability makes you an invaluable utility player on job sites.
Obtaining Additional Certifications
Undergoing extra training to get certified in related skills will make you more marketable. Some valuable certifications include:
- OSHA safety certification – Verifies you understand construction site hazards and safety protocols.
- First aid/CPR certification – Allows you to respond to on-site accidents before paramedics arrive.
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) – Qualifies you to drive excavator haul trucks.
- Forklift operation certification – Enables you to offload excavation equipment.
These certifications display your commitment to professional development as an excavator operator.
Cultivating Professional Work Ethic
A reliable work ethic is vital for succeeding as an excavator operator. Key attributes that employers look for include:
- Punctuality – Arrive on time and take minimal breaks.
- Responsibility – Admit mistakes and don’t cover up equipment damage.
- Coachability – Accept feedback from supervisors with a willingness to improve.
- Collaboration – Work cooperatively with co-workers and contractors.
- Diligence – Remain productive and focused throughout your workday.
- Safety-consciousness – Your top priority should be hazard avoidance.
Cultivating these crucial work ethics requires self-discipline. But it will accelerate your career advancement.
Joining a Professional Body
Industry organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) provide great networking and career growth opportunities. As a member, you access training grants, job boards, industry newsletters, and conferences. You also get recognized for professional certifications. This boosts recruiters’ confidence in your competencies. Active participation in a professional body displays your dedication to pursuing excellence as an excavator operator.
Positioning Yourself as an Indispensable Excavator Operator
Construction projects rely heavily on skilled excavator operators like you. Optimizing your excavator operation capabilities and work ethic is key to becoming an indispensable excavator operator. This article has highlighted critical tips that can maximize your career growth and success. Key takeaways include:
- Leveraging high excavator operator demand in the booming construction sector
- Undertaking formal training to gain licensing and specialized skills
- Getting extensive on-site experience operating different excavator models
- Expanding your capabilities handling diverse excavator attachments
- Obtaining additional certifications to boost safety and versatility
- Cultivating professional work ethics like punctuality and diligence
- Joining industry bodies for access to career growth opportunities
By implementing these tips, you position yourself as a skilled, safe and reliable excavator operator. This maximizes your employability and career advancement in the excavation field. Excavator operation is a challenging but rewarding career. We wish you success as you leverage these strategies to become an indispensable excavator operator. For more details, visit Operator School.