The operation of much of this equipment is becoming more complex as a result of computerized controls. Construction equipment operators may also set up and inspect equipment, make adjustments, and perform minor repairs. Construction equipment operators include grader, bulldozer, and scraper operators, operating engineers, and paving, surfacing, and tamping equipment operators. Grader, bulldozer, and scraper operators gouge out, distribute, level, and grade earth with vehicles equipped with a concave blade attached across the front. In addition to the familiar bulldozers, they operate trench excavators, road graders, and similar equipment.
Operators maneuver the equipment in successive passes to raise or lower terrain to a specific grade.
They may uproot trees and move large rocks while preparing the surface. Operating engineers are unique in that they operate several different types of power construction equipment such as cranes, derricks, shovels, tractors, scrapers, pumps and hoists. They may operate cranes and derricks that lift materials, machinery, or other heavy objects from the ground. They extend or retract a horizontally mounted boom to lower, or raise a hook attached to the loadline, often in response to hand signals and radioed instructions from other workers. They also may operate excavation and loading machines equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets that dig sand, gravel, earth, or similar materials and load it into trucks or onto conveyors.