How to Become a Backhoe Operator

If you enjoyed playing in the dirt as a child, a career as a backhoe operator may be the perfect place for you now that you're an adult. With all the residential and commercial construction occurring everyday as well as the transportation organizations preparing ground for roads and bridges, the need for backhoe operators is high.

Instructions

1. Attend a heavy equipment operator school or program. There are schools and programs such as the National Heavy Equipment Operator School that specialize in teaching students everything they need to know about operating different pieces of heavy equipment including backhoes. After graduation from such a program you'll be able to get a job running almost any piece of heavy equipment machinery on a site including cranes.

2. Get your CDL. A CDL is a commercial driver's license and it is required if you are hauling anything using a semi on public roads. While it isn't a requirement to operate a backhoe, most employers in the heavy equipment field prefer for employees to have this license since it allows them to haul equipment from one location to another.

3. Find a company that will train you on the job. If you don't have the time or money to attend a heavy equipment training program, you can seek out a company that provides on-the-job training. They can teach you how to operate a backhoe, but don't expect this on the first day. The company may make you do other jobs to see what you are capable of before they turn over an expensive piece of equipment to a rookie.

Tips & Warnings

• Some companies require a background check and a drug test prior to employment.

• You must have a clean driving record for employment with most companies.

Resources

• National Heavy Equipment Operator School