OPERATING ENGINEER

What does an Operating Engineer do?

Operating Engineers operate heavy construction equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, pavers, trench excavators and many other kinds of equipment used in constructing buildings, dams, airports and highways. They also work in the sand and gravel, cement and asphalt industries. Operating Engineer apprentices can also become heavy equipment mechanics working on diesel engines, transmission and electrical systems in state of the art equipment.

Working conditions

The work is outdoors and can depend on the weather. Bad weather can shutdown jobs, generally the equipment is not operated in snow or heavy rain. The average operator may work between 1200 and 1500 hours per year depending upon their job skills.

What are the Programs specifics?

Length of program – 4 Years

6000 Hours of on-the-job training

Classroom instructions on Saturdays

Starting pay 60% of journeyman rate with increases every 1500 hours

What do I need to apply?

Must be at least 18 years old

Must have a current drivers license

High school graduate or GED

Complete an oral interview

Complete a 6-week pre-apprenticeship program.

Drug tested

Where do I apply?

IUOE LOCAL 478

240 Cheshire Road

Meriden, CT 06451

(203) 237-3962

(800) 841-0478

Scott Swick Apprenticeship Coordinator

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Website Links:

IUOE Local 478                   www.local478.org

International Union              www.iuoe.org