As a former trucking supervisor, I know firsthand that having a great heavy equipment operator (HEO) can make all the difference to your company. But what makes a good HEO? Here’s what I think:

1. Certified & Knowledgeable

   It’s of vital importance to hire someone who is certified to operate your specific equipment. Ensure that he/she has all the licenses and requirements necessary to safely run your heavy equipment. You’ll also want to verify that he/she is knowledgeable of the equipment they are expected to run and maintain to ensure a safe working environment.

2. Good Communicator

   HEOs are on the frontline of the job. They’re often the first person with whom a client or a contractor will speak. Having great communication skills is an invaluable asset for an HEO.

3. Takes Care

   If your HEO treat the machine like he/she was making payments on it, they’re a keeper! Treating equipment with respect, including cleaning out the cab for safety, is an important part of a HEO’s daily job.

4. Able to Train

   A great HEO will be able to train a less-experienced operator.

5. Safety Conscious

   Due to the nature of the job, being a HEO can be a dangerous job. It’s important to have someone who adheres to company safety policies to ensure a safe working environment.

6. Ability to Repair

   Construction sites are fast-paced, so each moment a machine is down costs your company money. A HEO with the ability to perform minor repairs is an asset.

7. Takes Pride

   At the end of the day, you want someone who cares about their job. You want someone on your team that is proud of what they have accomplished. This pride will be apparent in his/her work ethic.

 

Did I miss something? Do you agree with my list? Let me know!