Most heavy equipment operators work part year, full time. Overtime and weekend work is often required to meet deadlines, and workers may have to travel to projects. Skills Workers in this category require physical strength. They must be able to work without supervision. In 1995, all heavy equipment operators in the Cowichan region were men, and their average age was 41.
Some secondary school is required and high school completion is preferred.
Workers must also hold a valid Class 3 driver's license, and may require a special driver's license for operating some types of equipment. This large occupational group will continue to be affected significantly by the cycles of the construction industry, which has slowed down considerably in the last two years and will continue at lower levels, at least in the short term. Highway construction will continue to be a major source of employment locally. More advanced technology will require more highly skilled and multi-skilled workers, and there will be more job opportunities for those who are technically qualified and willing to move to work locations. Back to list of typical occupations in Cowichan Region Construction Industry.