OCCUPATIONAL
PROFILE
Excavating and Loading Machine
and Dragline Operator (53-7032.00)
At-a-Glance Statistics
Sample Backhoe Operator, Dragline Oiler, Dragline Operator, Equipment Operator,
. . . Excavator Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator, Loader Operator, Operator, Pit
Job Titles operator, Track Hoe Operator
Key Tasks • Move levers, depress foot pedals, and turn dials to operate power
machinery, such as power shovels, stripping shovels, scraper loaders, or
backhoes.
•	Set up or inspect equipment prior to operation.
•	Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities and limitations, and
with efficient and safe digging procedures in a given application.
•	Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating
machines so that work can be performed to specifications.
•	Operate machinery to perform activities such as backfilling excavations,
vibrating or breaking rock or concrete, or making winter roads.
•	Receive written or oral instructions regarding material movement or
excavation.
•	Move materials over short distances, such as around a construction site,
factory, or warehouse.
•	Create or maintain inclines or ramps.
•	Lubricate, adjust, or repair machinery and replace parts, such as gears,
bearings, or bucket teeth.
•	Handle slides, mud, or pit cleanings or maintenance.
•	Direct workers engaged in placing blocks or outriggers to prevent capsizing
of machines when lifting heavy loads.
•	Direct ground workers engaged in activities such as moving stakes or
markers or changing positions of towers.
All data sourced fromO'NET OnLine (2018) https./Avww .onetonline.org/.

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Education and Training Top Industries
High school
diploma or
equivalent
71%
Less than high
school diploma
23%
Post-secondary
certificate
6%
Median Wages
Hourly
$21.28
EH
Annually
$44,270
ft
Construction
Mining, Quarrying, and
Oil and Gas Extraction
Number Employed

50,000 positions
6,500 job openings
Top Ten States for Occupational Percentage Growth
UT FL TX AZ CA TN OR OK NE IA

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