Hire Temporary Workers in Huntington, WV

3 Crucial Things to Look for When Hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator

Any position can be difficult to fill, but hiring a heavy equipment operator with the exact credentials necessary for the job has its specific challenges. Here are 3 major considerations that we hope will help you next time you hire.

Evaluate a Candidate’s Experience

To operate heavy equipment properly, any candidate should have at least a few years of experience. The amount and type of experience may depend on what kind of position you are looking to fill. For example, some small construction jobs may only require a high school diploma or a limited amount of training. On the other hand, operating a crane requires a range of skills and a significant amount of experience (often as many as 10 years of experience with heavy equipment). Consider what kind of equipment you’ll need the heavy equipment operator to use at the construction site before you post a job description.

Always Check Safety Records

Safety is an incredibly important consideration for any construction project. You’ll want to make sure each person you interview has a minimal history of accidents and a safe track record at other jobs.

Consider Licensing and Training

Most heavy equipment operator jobs require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or other special licenses to use the heavy machinery on the construction site. You could also look for candidates with specific training: many community colleges offer courses for those interested in operating heavy equipment. Depending on your requirements, the ideal candidate may have a combination of on-the-job experience and course-based training.

We hope that these tips are helpful to you in your hiring endeavors.