Do you know Sira spring tool balancers from Sirem pumps? A Bevel helical from a Centrex clutch? A Clc 40 switching amplifier from ave chains? And a Danfoss bauer industrial gearbox from a crowned tooth gear coupling? If so, a job that involves using industrial equipment could be the career path for you, that’s if you are not already in the industry.
Perhaps you’re a recent school leaver or college graduate wanting to embark on a career as an industrial equipment mechanic? Or perhaps you are in your forties and you fancy a change of career that would satisfy your enthusiasm towards heavy equipment operations. Either way, you may be pleased to learn that construction equipment operators have been estimated to be one of the top 30 fastest growing jobs by 2020.
According to a report compiled by the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, an estimated 20.5 million new jobs will be added by 2020. The report predicts there will be a 42.2 % increase in jobs requiring the specialist use of industrial equipment. The Bureau of Labour Statistics forecasts construction equipment operators as the 29th fastest growing job in six years’ time.
What do construction equipment operators do?
Asides having in-depth knowledge and understanding of geared-motor units, Worm gearboxes, Wrapflex couplings, variable speed belts and the likes, construction equipment operators control, manoeuvre and drive heavy machinery which is typically used to build structures, bridges, roads and buildings.
Maintenance checks
Whilst a construction equipment operator is primarily required to operate heavy machinery, there is much more to this exciting, challenging and technical role than handling specialised equipment. For example, in order to operate the machinery in a safe and effective manner, the operator must be aware and familiar with the relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
Operators will also be required to carry out safety and maintenance checks to ensure all the internal gearboxes, motors, couplings, clutches, variable speed pulleys and belts and other essential ancillary components are working to their optimum.
Construction equipment operators will also have to ensure the general upkeep and maintenance of rolling stock, and undergo oil changes, air filters and basic trouble-shooting diagnostics.
The technical world of Tschan couplings, Sumitomo gearboxes, Zurrer drivers and a myriad of other makes and models of industrial parts, is exciting, challenging and rewarding. With such a heavy reliance on such equipment in the construction of buildings, bridges and other structures, it is hardly surprising that the employment of construction equipment operators is projected to at 19% faster from 2012 to 2022 than the average for all occupations.
Do you operate and maintain industrial equipment and its components? Do you have any advice for people looking to put their foot on the construction equipment operator ladder?
If you looking for spare parts for industrial equipment such as industrial gearboxes, couplings, clutches, belts and speed pulleys, YB Components are specialists in the supply of specialist industrial components.