IUOE Local No. 513

Operating engineers operate the muscle machines that are vital to any building project. They use heavy construction equipment for moving dirt, paving and lifting. These machines include backhoes, dozers, scrapers, highlifts and cranes. They also assist in the proper maintenance of equipment to ensure safe long-term operation. Operating engineers should possess mechanical inclination, basic reading and math skills, and the willingness to learn. Operating engineer apprentices complete a three-year scheduled training program, which combines classroom study with on-the-job training. Apprentices must attend a minimum of five weeks of scheduled training each year. Apprentices must complete a performance test and on-the-job hours each year in order to advance to the next level.