How to Become a Heavy Equipment Operator in Michigan

Heavy equipment operators prepare for the construction of roads and buildings.

Heavy equipment operators are highly skilled in using construction, mining and/or farming equipment. They operate a variety of machinery ranging from forklifts to bulldozers. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook is good for heavy equipment operators. Nearly 65 percent of heavy equipment operators work in construction.

There are several training options available to men and women seeking careers as heavy equipment operators. The most common options include apprenticeship programs and training schools. Regardless of which training option you choose you must first secure a Michigan Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

Instructions

1. Obtain a Michigan CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). Make sure you satisfy the age, driving record and medical/physical qualifications. Read the "CDL Eligibility and Requirements" on the Michigan Department of State's (DOS) website (see References). Contact a local branch office of the SOS and schedule a vision test and CDL knowledge written test. After passing the tests, you will receive a CDL permit.

2. Pass the CDL driving skills test. Visit the "Road Skills Testing Organization Locator" on the DOS website. Select the county in which you live. Schedule a driving test with one of the state-authorized testing organizations listed. After passing the test, you will receive a Michigan Department of State Driver Skills Test Certificate (TPT-010).

3. Apply for a CDL. Visit your local SOS branch office. Show the office personnel your Michigan Department of State Driver Skills Test Certificate (TPT-010). Fill out the CDL Certification form (BFS-103). The certification form acknowledges that you meet all the eligibility requirements. Pay the CDL fee. As of early 2010, the CDL fee is $25. Within 10 business days you will receive your photo CDL in the mail.

4. Complete an apprenticeship training program. The International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) administers comprehensive apprenticeship programs. Visit the Michigan branch of the IUOE at their website (see References). Select "Registration Form" from the menu. Complete the form and submit it online. If you prefer, call 517-546-9610 and register for the program.

   The program is operated under the Journeyman and Apprentice Training Fund (JATF). According to JATF, "Apprentices complete a minimum of three years and 6,000 hours of combined classroom and on-site training." The apprenticeship program also includes paid on-the-job-training.

5. Complete a training school program. Attend an accredited training school if an apprenticeship program doesn't suit your needs. Visit the National Association of Heavy Equipment Operator Training Schools (NAHETS) website (see References). Select "Member Schools" from the menu. You'll find a list of certified training schools based in Georgia, Oklahoma and California. Visit the training school websites for information about courses, admission requirements and financing.

Tips & Warnings

• When applying for the CDL permit show the SOS personnel a valid drivers license and a valid social security number.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Construction Equipment Operators
• Michigan Department of State: Commercial Drivers License
• Operating Engineers Local 324: Apprenticeship and Training
• National Association of Heavy Equipment Training Schools: Member Schools

Resources

• Department of State: Michigan Commercial Drivers License Manual