Road Construction Plant Operator

Road construction plant operators handle a large variety of road construction equipment used in the construction of new roads and maintenance of existing roads.

Road construction plant operators are responsible for operating vehicles such as bulldozers, front-end loaders, road rollers and heavy lorries. These plant operators need to manoeuvre vehicles safely and efficiently in rough terrain by means of moving levers or foot pedals, operating switches or turning dials.

They are also responsible for inspecting the machinery regularly and making adjustments and minor repairs timeously to avoid expensive repairs at a later stage.

Personal Requirements

have a heavy vehicle driver’s licence
prepared to undergo an aptitude test
at least 16 years old
sound physical health
responsible
good sense of balance
able to judge distance
good eye-hand-foot coordination
safety-conscious and diligent about finishing work off neatly, as shoddy workmanship can be the cause of road accidents once the road is in operation

Employment

regional governments
municipalities
civil engineering companies
road construction companies

Getting Started

try to obtain vacation or part-time work in a road construction company
arrange to speak to a road construction plant operator about this type of career

Programmes

Boston City Campus and Business College does not offer a programme that leads directly to this occupation. Please take a look at the related occupations below to see whether any of these appeal to you. Alternately, please send an email to taryn@boston.co.za and a Student Advisor will call you back.

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