In a typical work setting, operating engineers and construction equipment operators:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a medium level of social interaction. They interact with other operators and supervisors to ensure safety and receive directions.
• Communicate on a daily basis over the telephone and in person.
• Often work as part of a team.
• Are greatly responsible for the health and safety of others.
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• Are responsible for the work done by other operators and engineers.

Physical Work Conditions

• Usually work outdoors at construction sites.
• Are often exposed to whole body vibration when operating equipment.
• Are regularly exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.
• Often wear protective clothing, such as hard hats and gloves.
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• Are often exposed to contaminants such as dust.
• Are exposed daily to very hot and or very cold temperatures because they work outdoors.
• Are exposed to hazardous equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, and hoists, on a daily basis.
• May have to work in very bright or very dim lighting, depending on the weather.
• Usually work inside equipment in which they may not be protected from the weather.
• May work physically close to other workers.

Work Performance

• Must pace their work based on the speed of equipment or machinery.
• Must be exact in their work. This is to ensure the safety of others.
• Repeat the same physical and mental activities.
• Make some decisions independently, but sometimes speak to a supervisor before operating machinery.
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• Set some of their daily tasks and goals independently.
• Work in a competitive atmosphere in which they must meet daily and weekly deadlines.

Hours/Travel

• May not work for periods of time due to poor weather conditions or low construction activity.
• May work more than 40 hours per week to catch up after bad weather.