Summary
![construction equipment operators image](/https/www.bls.gov/ooh/images/15231.jpg)
Quick Facts: Construction Equipment Operators | |
---|---|
2023 Median Pay |
$55,270 per year
$26.57 per hour |
Typical Entry-Level Education | High school diploma or equivalent |
Work Experience in a Related Occupation | None |
On-the-job Training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
Number of Jobs, 2023 | 515,700 |
Job Outlook, 2023-33 | 4% (As fast as average) |
Employment Change, 2023-33 | 21,500 |
What Construction Equipment Operators Do
Construction equipment operators drive, maneuver, or control the heavy machinery used to construct roads, buildings, and other structures.
Work Environment
Construction equipment operators may work even in unpleasant weather. Most operators work full time, and some have irregular work schedules that include nights.
How to Become a Construction Equipment Operator
Many workers learn how to operate construction equipment on the job after earning a high school diploma or equivalent; others learn through an apprenticeship or by attending vocational schools.
Pay
The median annual wage for construction equipment operators was $55,270 in May 2023.
Job Outlook
Overall employment of construction equipment operators is projected to grow 4 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 45,700 openings for construction equipment operators are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for construction equipment operators.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of construction equipment operators with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about construction equipment operators by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.