Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators
O*NET 47-2073.00 · SOC 47-2073
Operating Engineer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $60k a year with +4.6% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 39,200 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Operate bulldozers to clear and grade land
- →Use backhoes to dig foundations and utility trenches
- →Grade soil to specified elevations using motor graders
- →Operate cranes to lift and place heavy materials
- →Check fluid levels and inspect equipment before operating
Education & How to Get In
Operating Engineer roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Operating Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Operating Engineer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Operating Engineer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators is projected to grow 4.6% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·48% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Operating Engineer make?
The median Operating Engineer earns $60k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Operating Engineer jobs?
Our model puts Operating Engineer at 43 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 39% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 48% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Operating Engineer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.6% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 39,200 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Operating Engineer?
Most Operating Engineer roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become an Operating Engineer?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Operating Engineer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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