Career Compass—Operators

A career in the trades offers tremendous potential for growth and the opportunity to work in dynamic, hands-on environments. The role of operator is just one example of a secure and reliable career path that provides long-term stability and meaningful contribution to the industry’s future.

What is an Operator?

Manson Operator Terry Roberts Photo credit: J.Anthony Tedpahogo-Marketing & Communications Coordinator

An operator, also referred to as a heavy equipment operator, is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of machines such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes at construction sites around the world, including both land-based and waterfront locations. These professionals are typically among the first to arrive and the last to depart from construction projects. At Manson, an operator’s job responsibilities vary depending on the specific field. For civil construction they may perform tasks such as hoisting equipment onto barges and driving pile, while for dredging, they may be loading barges with excavated material or running a suction dredge.

“No matter what side of work you’re on [civil or dredging], there’s never a dull moment as an operator,” says Manson Operator Terry Roberts. “You can be hoisting air compressors onto a barge one day and then driving sheet pile the next day.”

Entry & Training

Individuals interested in pursuing a career as an operator are generally required to be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent. High school students who wish to prepare for this career path may benefit from courses like shop and auto technology.

The next step involves selecting a trade school, union, or state apprenticeship program that meets an individual’s schedule. Understanding the differences between trade schools and apprenticeships helps future operators make informed decisions about their training.

Union and State Apprenticeships

Union and state apprenticeship programs often accept participants without prior experience. Aspiring operators who enroll in a union apprenticeship are managed by a labor union, while state apprenticeships partner with apprenticeship agencies such as the U.S. Department of Labor.

Both union and state apprenticeships combine classroom learning with practical, on-the-job training, and participants may earn wages while receiving formal instruction for several types of equipment including forklifts, cranes, excavators, etc. Each specialty course offers practical exercises and safety training for apprentices to educate them on specific topics such as blind spot awareness and best operating practices.

An operator using a skid loader to move dirt and debris on Manson's Pier Romeo Recapitalization project in South Carolina. Photo credit: J.Anthony Tedpahogo-Marketing & Communications Coordinator

Most apprenticeships last three to four years, and some offer credits that can be applied toward a college construction degree. Compared to trade schools, apprenticeships frequently provide broader exposure to different types of equipment and work scenarios.

Trade School

For those located in “right-to-work” states—labor regulations that do not require tradesmen to join a union—or looking for nonunion options, trade schools are a great option to focus on foundational knowledge, including equipment regulations, safety protocols, machinery maintenance, soil science, site grading, and blueprint reading. Hands-on experience may be more limited compared to apprenticeships; however, some programs utilize simulators before allowing students to operate actual equipment. Most technical programs take one to two years to complete and may offer specialized training on specific machinery such as cranes or drilling rigs.

Your Future as an Operator

After completing their specific training, gaining hands-on experience, and earning certification, individuals can become Journeyman Operators (specific classifications are defined by region). This status signifies that they are fully qualified tradesmen, prepared to assume greater responsibilities within the field.

Journeyman Operators who wish to advance further can pursue specialized training to expand their expertise with different types of machinery. This additional training opens opportunities for progression into supervisory positions and project management roles.

Operator Chris Tart in the cab of a crane on Manson's 18th Avenue Ocean Outfall project in Myrtle Beach, SC.

“Working as an operator is truly one of the best jobs you could have,” says Manson Port Engineer Casey Prowse, a former crane operator. “There’s a lot of pride when you can say you’ve helped build infrastructure that supports our entire country. When you think about the impact, it’s incredible.”

Contact your local operator's union or find a trade school near you to learn more.