Operating Engineer

Code: 47-2073.00

Also known as: Back Hoe Operator, Engineering Equipment Operator, Equipment Operator (EO), Forklift Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator, Hot Mix Asphalt Operator, Machine Operator, Motor Grader Operator, Operating Engineer, Track Hoe Operator

Description: Construction sites use Operating Engineers to manage several types of heavy-powered construction equipment, such as bulldozers, pumps compressors, scrapers, shovels, derricks, tractors or front-end loaders. Typically, these Engineers have a high school degree and complete an apprenticeship over 3 years.

Operating Engineer

Typical wages


10% $32,980
25% $39,150
Median $49,770
75% $65,640
90% $87,220
10% $15.85
25% $18.82
Median $23.93
75% $31.56
90% $41.93

Projected employment

Estimated Employment
(2019 year)
418,000
Projected Employment
(2029 year)
434,900
Percent Change +0 %
Projected Annual Job Openings 43,900