Operating Engineer Certification

Operating engineers operate the equipment critical to construction.

Operating engineers operate material movement and excavating equipment. They are licensed to operate machines such as bulldozers, cranes, grading machines, back hoes, and fork lifts. However, they cannot work with this equipment without certification. To become certified, operating engineers must complete an Operating Engineers Certification Program.

Operating Engineer Job Description

Operating engineers operate excavating equipment, material movement equipment, lifting equipment, and cranes. Operating engineers also perform all maintenance on the machines they use, such as oil changes and basic repairs. Operating engineers learn basic surveying techniques and can assist in surveying a work site. Operating engineers are not licensed with commercial driver's licenses, called a CDL for short, unless they earn that additional certification separately.

Operating Engineering Training

To work as an operating engineer, it is necessary to successfully complete the Operating Engineers Certification Program, called OECP for short. Operating engineers can be trained through their local operating engineers union and become certified by the union. Operating engineering courses are also available at many technical colleges and receive a certificate through the school. Operating engineering training can qualify someone to work on a surveying crew, but it does not make them a licensed surveyor.

Operating Engineer Certification

After taking all necessary courses, certification is earned by first taking a written exam. After passing the written exam, a practical exam is administered in which the candidate demonstrates skills before a judge or panel. Operating engineers can earn multiple certifications for different types of equipment.

Operating Engineer Recertification

Crane operator certification is only good for five years. To retain certification, the crane operator must retake the written test and provide proof of meeting the physical requirements.

Other Operating Engineer Certifications

OSHA HazMat (hazardous materials) training re-certification is required annually. Excavation safety training requirements and certifications vary by state. Excavation safety courses and other safety courses may be required by the state's OSHA department before you are allowed on a construction work site. Commercial driver's licenses must be renewed every six years in most states. Refer to the Department of Transportation or Department of Motor Vehicles in your state for the terms and conditions of CDL renewal.

References

• International Union of Operating Engineers - job description
• International Union of Operating Engineers -- certification program
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Surveyors
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators Certification Requirements
• BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Operating Engineers

Resources

• International Union of Operating Engineers