Certification in Heavy Equipment Operations

Program Description

The Heavy Equipment Operations training program prepares entry-level operators for careers in construction, mining, and earthmoving. The program combines classroom instruction in safety, blueprints, and equipment maintenance with extensive simulator and field-based practice on machinery such as backhoes, excavators, dozers, and loaders. Upon completion, students are ready to pursue entry-level employment in construction and public service.

Total Clock Hours: 360 clock hours

Credits: 13

Duration: 10 weeks

The courses stack into the Highway Construction Training Certificate of Completion degree

The program will prepare students for obtaining the following credentials: NCCER Heavy Equipment Operations Level I, II, and III certifications. 

The heavy equipment operation component is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). All full-time HCT faculty members have been trained and certified by NCCER as core curricula/craft instructors.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

Construction is one of the six high-demand industries identified by the Montana Governor as a priority under the 406 Jobs (Executive Order 5-2025).  According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for heavy equipment operators in Montana is strong, with projections indicating roughly 10% growth through 2028 and a sustained need for 1,000 new construction workers annually. High demand is driven by robust construction activity and infrastructure projects. The average annual salary for a heavy equipment operator in Montana is approximately $45,000 to $61,000. Experienced operators and those in specialized roles (like mining or crane operation) can earn significantly more, with top earners exceeding $63,000 annually. Employment in construction-related roles is projected to grow, with demand particularly high in the northwest and southwest regions of the state. Opportunities exist for specialized operators, such as those with experience in water, sewer, or storm pipe installation, as well as crane operators.

Important Program Information

• Students must contact the Registrar’s Office, Financial Aid, and the Highway Construction Training Program prior to admittance to the program.
• Students must receive a “C” or better in all required courses to earn the Workforce Certificate.
• All students, faculty, and staff are subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout the training.
• In addition to regular college admission requirements and prior to enrolling in the Heavy Equipment Operations Driving Workforce Certificate Program, students must provide the HCTP with the following:
  
  • Complete HCT admission application 
  • Complete DOT Drug Analysis Screen
• The DOT drug screen is taken separately from the DOT physical and may be completed by a lab in your area and mailed to the Human Resources Director at Salish Kootenai College. Drug screens must be completed within 30 days of the first day of class to be accepted.

Note: Students with a history of criminal convictions may not be eligible for all positions within the Highway Construction industry. Students with concerns in this area should consult with the program director.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds to shoulder height.
• Must be able to perform safely in field operations.
• Must be able to communicate orally with a person 20 feet away.
• Must be able to climb, unaided, onto and off of equipment using three points of contact.
• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to visually read from a blueprint or drawing.
• Must be able to hear a backup warning alarm from 100 feet down.

Expenses

In addition to the college tuition and fees, students will want to account for the following additional costs:

• Lab fees -$250 per quarter
• Books - up to $300

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Heavy Equipment Operations Workforce Certificate, students will demonstrate knowledge, skills, and competencies in the following areas.

• Demonstrate proficiency in the safe operation, startup/shutdown, and preventative maintenance of heavy equipment in compliance with NCCER Technical Standards and MSHA/OSHA safety regulations.
• Interpret civil drawings and soil conditions to perform essential site work tasks, including calculating cut/fill requirements and precision grade setting.
• Analyze job-site data, equipment capabilities, and environmental conditions to make efficient, compliant, and safety-conscious operational decisions.
• Execute standardized job site communication, including NCCER hand signals and radio protocols, while maintaining accurate OSHA-compliant documentation for inspections and incidents.
• Demonstrate responsible citizenship by operating heavy equipment in a manner that protects public safety, respects tribal sovereignty and local jurisdictional authority, stewards natural and community resources, and upholds industry regulations and ethical standards.

 

Certification Requirements

Required Courses

HEOP125	Heavy Equipment Operations Theory	8
HEOP127	Heavy Equipment Operations	5

Total Credit Hours: 13