Technology will continue to provide more advanced equipment, enabling heavy equipment operators to be more productive and to perform their work with greater precision. This will require more highly skilled and multi-skilled workers. According to industry sources, employers are having difficulty filling positions in this field because of a shortage of technically qualified equipment operators. Public works maintenance equipment operators are less affected by economic change because they are always needed to maintain roads, streets and highways, as well as to carry out other upkeep activities in cities or towns. However, fiscal restraint at the local government level will continue to restrict the growth in employment of these workers.
Workers can often work year round if they are experienced with various types of machinery.
Due to environmental concerns, people are encouraged to recycle more, and more goods are recyclable. This might lead to a growing need for recyclable goods collection workers. However, competition for all public works equipment operator positions is very strong, with the supply of potential workers exceeding the demand. Those already working in labouring positions are at a competitive advantage as they can apply internally for any openings. Some workers may progress to supervisory positions with experience.