Pile driver operators operate pile drivers mounted on skids, barges, crawler treads, or locomotive cranes to drive pilings for retaining walls, bulkheads, and foundations of structures such as buildings, bridges, and piers.
Pile driver operator requirements include the use of huge machines to hammer heavy beams– called piles– into the ground for supporting bridges, piers, or building foundations. Pile driver operators’ job responsibilities involve operating cranes, hoists, or other heavy-duty lifting equipment. They position structural components and inspect equipment or tools to be used in construction or excavation. Moreover, they clean equipment or facilities too.
People wanting to start in this career should have a high school diploma or equivalent. No work experience is needed, but 1 to 12 months of on-the-job training is required to begin working as a pile driver operator.
A pile driver operator knows a lot about building and construction i.e knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair work, knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance and are good at calculations. They are well versed in the practical application of engineering science and technology. Moreover, they understand public safety and security.
To be successful in the role of a piledriver operator, one should have great command in communications skills, critical thinking, machinery operating capacity, and good decision-making ability.
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
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