How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Texas

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that job opportunities for construction equipment operators are projected to experience steady growth through 2033. Most jobs in the sector require a high school diploma in addition to specialized training and licensing, though some opportunities for on-the-job training are available.

There are many reasons to be interested in a career as a heavy equipment operator, especially in Texas. But just as it can open many doors, it’s important to recognize that such a position can also increase your risk of incurring a workplace injury. In fact, heavy equipment-related accidents are the third leading cause of fatalities among construction workers.

Texas Requirements For Working As A Heavy Equipment Operator

A high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate is the basic educational requirement for starting a career as a heavy equipment operator.

Skill training, in which you familiarize yourself with the safe operation of heavy machinery, is also necessary. Specialized training programs are available through operators’ unions, apprenticeships, and some technical colleges within the state.

Several certifications may also be required to show that a candidate has the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to operate potentially dangerous equipment. Certifications help teach safe operational practices that help decrease the risk of serious harm, such as spinal cord injuries.

Some necessary certifications may include the following:

National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Certificate
Certificate of Formal Training
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) Certification

Passing a Qualifying Exam from the Texas Department of Transportation may also be required.

Furthermore, operators must also be able to demonstrate their skills to potential employers. That may require passing other written tests with a minimum score of 70% in addition to operating equipment under supervision.

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Why Are Certifications Required?

Training and certification are needed to prevent heavy equipment accidents. Some of the risks involved with heavy machine operation include the following:

Rollover accidents
Poor equipment maintenance
Improper rigging
Improper load handling
Inexperienced or poorly trained operators

Accidents involving heavy equipment can be deadly and put many people at risk, which is a major reason why employers are required to provide workers’ compensation benefits to those who have been injured on the job, regardless of who is at fault.

What About A Driver’s License?

A current Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is also required to become a heavy equipment operator since equipment must often be driven from one job site to another. Any duty that includes operating a trailer of over 10,000 pounds also requires a CDL.

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Physical Fitness

Some employers may also have fitness requirements in place for their workers to operate heavy equipment. Professional operators spend many hours operating dangerous equipment in challenging environments. These conditions can cause physical and mental fatigue, which makes the need to maintain basic fitness levels something that cannot be overlooked.

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Drug Tests

Employers may also require random drug testing for heavy equipment operators. Employer drug testing is legal in Texas, and company policies may include pre-employment testing, post-accident testing, random screenings, and “for cause” testing. Be that as it may, employees are still afforded some protections under state and federal laws.

Are You Considering A Career As A Heavy Equipment Operator In Texas?

Heavy equipment operators work under dangerous conditions for long hours. Despite the risks, these types of construction jobs are highly sought for their good pay and opportunities.

The certifications and training required to become a heavy equipment operator are in place to protect the drivers, all on-site workers, and reduce the risk of personal injury.