What Is a Field Operator and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A field operator handles large machinery and operates them on site. Depending on the industry, field operators may drive cement trucks to construction sites, or operate waste trucks to load and unload at disposal sites. Their primary duties include following all company operating procedures to set up new machines and equipment, running the machinery in accordance to guidelines, and troubleshooting any problems that arise. The career requires basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with all company safety rules and regulations.

To become a field operator, you need a high school diploma and some mechanical aptitude. Some vocational schools provide training programs on operating heavy machinery, but most field operators learn on the job. You must have the ability to stick to a strict operating schedule, even during high-stress situations. A field operator often works under the direct supervision of a field manager.