To work as a material moving machine operator, you typically need to:

• complete on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Work experience

Any experience safely driving or operating equipment can help you get a trainee position.

On-the-job training

Many operators learn their skills on the job. You often begin as an assistant and help set up, dismantle, and service the equipment. An experienced operator closely supervises your work as you learn to operate light equipment. As you gain experience, you use heavier equipment. The length of training varies by the type of equipment you operate. You may receive one month of training or up to one year.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be construction equipment operators. This occupation includes several types of machine operators. Training lasts from four to 12 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.