Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators
Did You Know:
- Construction equipment operators are trained either through a formal apprenticeship program, through on-the-job training, through a paid training program or a combination of these programs.
- Job opportunities are expected to be good.
- Hourly pay is relatively high, but operators of some types of equipment cannot work in inclement weather, so total annual earnings may be reduced.
Industry Areas
- Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction
- Other Specialty Trade Contractors
- Local Government (OES Designation)
Day-to-Day Tasks
- Operate machines to spread, smooth, level, or steel-reinforce stone, concrete, or asphalt on road beds.
- Observe distribution of paving material to adjust machine settings or material flow, and indicate low spots for workers to add material.
- Control traffic.
Overall Kind of Work
Construction equipment operators use machinery to move construction materials, earth and other heavy materials at construction sites and mines. They operate equipment that clears and grades land t...
Work Environment
Military
Construction equipment operators work outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions. They often sit for long periods and are subject to loud noise and vibrations. They may work indoors while repairing equipment.
Status
What is the difference between enlisted and officer?
Enlisted:Enlisted members enter the Military with a high school diploma (in some cases a GED), at a minimum. They are employed in almost every type of military career, often in hands-on roles.
Officers: Officers either enter the Military with a four-year college degree or greater or served previously as enlisted members, and are generally employed in management roles or highly specialized fields that require intensive training.
Officer
Enlisted
Military Breakdown
The number of people who currently hold this career in the Military.
1,299 Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators in the military
Service Branches
Construction Equipment Operators work in the following services:
Type of Work
The level of day-to-day involvement with data, people or things.
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Things: 
Skills at a Glance
The levels of different skills helpful in this career.
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Critical Thinking & Problem Solving:
Equipment Operation & Maintenance:
Math & Science Skills:
Technology Design & Control: 
Leadership:
Workplace at a Glance
The level of different environmental factors you would experience on the job.
Responsibility:
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Physical Activity:
Decision Making:
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