TRADE SPOTLIGHT
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Construction Equipment Operators
In this job, people drive or operate equipment and machinery to build and repair roads, buildings, and more. Apprenticeships and training programs are available, but it's also very common to learn on the job.
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Construction Equipment Operators
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of construction equipment operators will grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
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The median annual wage for construction equipment operators was $54,290 in May 2020.
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The most common types of construction equipment operators include:
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Bulldozer operators
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Crane operators
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Excavator operators
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Forklift operators
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Loader operators
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Motor grader operators
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Pipelayers
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Pavers
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Road roller operators
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Skid-steer loader operators
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for construction equipment operators in Oregon was $69,774 in May 2022. This means that half of all construction equipment operators in Oregon earned more than $69,774 and half earned less. The lowest 10% of construction equipment operators in Oregon earned less than $58,346, and the highest 10% earned more than $79,154.
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Construction equipment operators in Oregon typically earn more pay with experience. They may also earn more pay if they have specialized training or certifications.
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Construction and Building Inspectors
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets local and national building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
What Construction and Building Inspectors Do
Construction and building inspectors ensure that construction meets building codes and ordinances, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
Work Environment
Construction and building inspectors spend considerable time inspecting worksites, alone or as part of a team. Some inspectors may have to climb ladders or crawl in tight spaces. Most work full time during regular business hours.
How to Become a Construction or Building Inspector
Most employers require construction and building inspectors to have at least a high school diploma and work experience in construction trades. Inspectors also typically learn on the job. Many states and local jurisdictions require some type of license or certification.
​According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for building inspectors in Oregon was $78,600 in May 2022. This means that half of all building inspectors in Oregon earned more than $78,600 and half earned less. The lowest 10% of building inspectors in Oregon earned less than $58,720, and the highest 10% earned more than $100,410.
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Construction Laborers
Perform tasks involving physical labor at construction sites. May operate hand and power tools of all types: air hammers, earth tampers, cement mixers, small mechanical hoists, surveying and measuring equipment, and a variety of other equipment and instruments. May clean and prepare sites, dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of excavations, erect scaffolding, and clean up rubble, debris, and other waste materials. May assist other craft workers.
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How to Become a Construction Laborer.
Employers prefer that applicants have some basic understanding and skills. Most of the positions do not require certification. If you are physically able to perform the required tasks, you can arrive to work on time, ready to work. Please keep in mind these positions require a drug screen in order to be hired.
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The BLS projects that the employment of construction laborers will grow 12% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
The median annual wage for construction laborers in Oregon was $34,470 in May 2022. This means that half of all construction laborers in Oregon earned more than $34,470 and half earned less. The lowest 10% of construction laborers in Oregon earned less than $24,830, and the highest 10% earned more than $46,110.
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