How to Be Excavator Driver - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 30, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The use of excavator drivers has become increasingly important in the construction industry. As projects become larger and more complex, the need for skilled operators to manage the excavation process has grown significantly. The excavator drivers role is to safely and efficiently move soil, rock, or other materials from one site to another while controlling the speed and direction of the machine.

Excavator drivers must possess knowledge of the equipment, safety regulations, and operating procedures. When excavator drivers are well-trained and experienced, they can help minimize the risks associated with excavation projects, such as soil erosion, damage to underground utilities, and worker injury. In addition to reducing risks, experienced excavator drivers can also increase productivity and reduce project costs.

As a result, companies that employ qualified and experienced excavator drivers can see a significant return on their investment.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL). In order to operate an excavator, you must possess a CDL. To obtain a CDL, you must first pass a written test and a skills test.
Obtain Excavator Training. Depending on the state you live in, you may need to complete a special certification course or apprenticeship program to become an excavator driver. Research the requirements in your state.
Gain Experience. It is important that you have experience operating an excavator before you start applying for jobs. The best way to gain experience is to find a job as a laborer on an excavation crew, where you can get hands-on experience operating an excavator.
Prepare Your Resume. Once you have gained the necessary experience, it is time to start looking for a job as an excavator driver. Prepare your resume, highlighting any relevant experience and certifications you have obtained.
Apply for Jobs. Start by looking for jobs in your local area. You can also search online job boards and contact construction companies in your area to see if they are hiring.
Network. Networking is one of the best ways to find a job as an excavator driver. Get in touch with people who work in the excavation industry and let them know that you are interested in finding a job. They may be able to provide you with leads or even refer you to potential employers.

Being an excavator driver requires a high level of skill and knowledge, so staying up to date and capable is essential for success. Keeping up to date with the industry requires dedication to learning and understanding the latest developments and technological advances in the field. Regularly attending conferences, seminars, and industry events can help keep a driver informed about the latest trends and advancements.

staying in practice with operating an excavator is key to maintaining proficiency. This can be done through refresher courses, simulators, and hands-on experience. As a result, staying up to date and capable will help an excavator driver stay competitive in their field and ensure they are ready to take on any job that comes their way.

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Job Description

Operate hydraulic excavator to excavate and move earth and materials
Operate backhoe to dig trenches, footings, and foundations
Load excavator buckets with soil, sand, gravel, or other materials
Position hand, foot, and arm levers to control the machine
Smooth and level earth to grade specifications
Monitor performance of excavator and diagnose malfunctions
Inspect excavator regularly for safety and maintenance
Follow safety protocols such as wearing protective gear
Record data such as depth of excavation and amount of material moved
Follow supervisors instructions regarding excavation work

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of operating and safety procedures for excavators.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and diagrams.
Ability to perform basic maintenance on excavators.
Ability to accurately measure distances and slopes.
Knowledge of earthwork and demolition techniques.
Ability to use GPS and survey equipment.
Ability to work in tight spaces.
Knowledge of local building codes and regulations.
Ability to use hand and power tools safely and effectively.
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks.
Excellent communication skills.
Good problem-solving skills.
High level of physical fitness and strength.
Ability to work in an environment with loud noises, dust, and hazardous materials.

Having the right skill set is an essential part of being an effective excavator driver. The ability to operate and maneuver heavy machinery, understand safety protocols, and be able to read blueprints and understand the job at hand are all necessary skills for any excavator driver. One of the most important skills to have is a good understanding of the excavation process and the ability to accurately assess the job site and environment.

This includes being able to identify potential hazards and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of everyone involved. excavator drivers must be able to use the excavator's controls properly, as well as having a good understanding of how to move soil, rock, and other material in a safe and efficient manner. Finally, strong communication skills are important, as excavator drivers are often required to work with a team or other operators in order to complete the job safely and on time.

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Frequent Interview Questions

How long have you been working as an excavator driver?
Are you comfortable working in a variety of terrain and weather conditions?
What safety procedures do you follow when operating an excavator?
How do you ensure that your excavator is functioning properly?
Describe a difficult job you've completed using an excavator.
What procedures do you follow to ensure the safety of those around you while operating the excavator?
How do you manage and operate the excavator in the most efficient way?
What experience do you have with other heavy equipment?
How do you keep up with the latest rules and regulations for operating an excavator?
How do you remain organized and efficient when completing a job with an excavator?

Common Tools in Industry

Excavator A large heavy equipment used to dig and move earth, rocks, and other materials. (Eg. backhoes, bulldozers, draglines, shovels, and trenchers)
Shovel A hand-held tool used to scoop and move dirt, sand, and other materials. (Eg. spades, hoes, and garden trowels)
Jackhammer A pneumatic or electric-powered tool used to break up pavement, concrete, and other hard surfaces. (Eg. demolition hammers and rotary hammers)
Power Drill A power tool used to drill holes in wood and other materials. (Eg. cordless drills, hammer drills, and rotary drills)
Wrecking Bar A long metal bar used to break apart walls, floors, and other objects. (Eg. crowbars, pry bars, and sledgehammers)
Air Compressor A mechanical device used to generate and supply compressed air. (Eg. portable air compressors and industrial air compressors)
Angle Grinder An electric-powered grinding tool used to cut and shape metal. (Eg. cutoff wheels and die grinders)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Equipment Manufacturers
International Union of Operating Engineers
National Excavator Operators Association
Construction Equipment Association
American Society of Civil Engineers
National Heavy Equipment Operators Association
National Association of Heavy Equipment Training Schools
American Public Works Association
American Road and Transportation Builders Association
International Compact Equipment Association

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Common Important Terms

Boom. A long arm or cylinder used on an excavator to move the bucket.
Bucket. The scoop-like attachment at the end of the boom used to dig and move material.
Dipper Stick. An arm that extends from the boom to the bucket, allowing the excavator to reach further.
Counterweight. A heavy mass at the rear of the excavator that helps to balance the machine when digging or lifting material.
Grade Control System. A system that uses sensors and computers to help the excavator operator maintain a constant grade (level surface) when digging or grading.
Hydraulic Excavator. A type of excavator powered by hydraulic pressure from an engine or electric motor.
Outriggers. Stabilizing arms that extend from the bottom of the excavator to provide additional stability when digging or lifting material.
Swing Drive. A mechanism used to rotate the upper structure of the excavator.
Track. The continuous belt-like treads that allow an excavator to move and maneuver over uneven terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of license do you need to operate an excavator?

To operate an excavator, you need a valid excavator operator's license or certification.

What is the average salary for a Excavator Driver?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an Excavator Driver is $44,620 per year.

How much experience is required to become a Excavator Driver?

Generally speaking, most employers require at least two years of experience to become a Excavator Driver.

What type of tasks does a Excavator Driver typically perform?

Excavator Drivers typically perform tasks such as digging trenches, demolishing structures, and lifting and moving heavy objects.

What safety precautions should be taken when operating an excavator?

When operating an excavator, it is important to wear protective gear such as a hard hat, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots. Additionally, it is important to always follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines and procedures for operating the machine.