Operating Engineers lubricate, maintain and perform minor repairs and adjustments to the machinery. Engineers install clamshell, dragline buckets, and other attachments required for certain jobs.
A qualified Operating Engineer is capable of operating and maintaining a wide variety of powered construction equipment. Some Operating Engineers choose a certain type of machine as their specialty and are known by that title instead of the general title of Operating Engineer. When preferred work is not available, however, Engineers will operate different machines or instruct others in their use.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Operating Engineers work outside in all types of weather. The work is strenuous, and the operators are subject to jarring, jolting and continuous noise.
The potential danger for injury is constant and requires constant vigilance to avoid hazards such as power lines, moving machinery, and unsafe soil conditions.
These dangers are reduced by the use of flag persons, barricades, safety hats, and equipment maintenance programs. When a dangerous situation arises, many times the good judgment of an operator prevents an accident.
Due to the nature of the work, an Operating Engineer will be expected to travel and live away from home for a portion of time. Generally, such jobs are within weekend commuting distance.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PLEDGE
The recruitment, selection, employment, and training of apprentices during their apprenticeship shall be without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, or gender.
The sponsor will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship and will operate this apprenticeship program as required under applicable law and lawful regulations issued thereunder.
