HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A common path is to finish secondary school, then start in a hands-on job with a construction or equipment crew and learn the work from experienced operators and supervisors. Some people build skills through industrial arts, machine shop, math, or other technical courses, and may begin in an equipment operator, helper, or labourer role before moving into leadership. Employers may value experience with heavy equipment, scheduling, safety, and teamwork. Requirements can vary by employer, province, and the type of project or machinery involved.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Supervise, co-ordinate and schedule the activities of workers who operate cranes and construction, paving, drilling, railway maintenance and other similar heavy equipment
- Establish methods to meet work schedules and co-ordinate work activities with other project supervisors or managers
- Requisition materials and supplies
- Resolve work problems and recommend measures to improve productivity
- Train or arrange for training of workers
- Recommend personnel actions such as hirings and promotions
- Prepare production and other reports
- May manage the operations of own company
- May also supervise, co-ordinate and schedule the activities of related apprentices, helpers and labourers.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Communication SkillsCo-ordinating skills LeadershipPlanningProject Management