A heavy equipment operator operates heavy equipment used in engineering and construction projects.^[1][2] Typically only skilled workers may operate heavy equipment, and there is specialized training for learning to use heavy equipment.

Various organizations set standards for training for heavy equipment operators. Such organizations typically offer what in the US is called "effective safety training". Specific organizations include the following:

• United States
  • International Union of Operating Engineers
  • Association of Equipment Manufacturers
  • National Association of Heavy Equipment Training Schools
• Canada
  • International Union of Operating Engineers

Much publication about heavy equipment operators focuses on improving safety for such workers. The occupational medicine field researches and makes recommendations about safety for these and other workers in safety-sensitive positions.

• Mack Ray Edwards (1918–1971), child sex abuser/serial killer; buried victims at his construction sites; committed suicide by hanging in his prison cell

• Benjamin Holt
• Construction worker
• Hydraulic machinery
• International Union of Operating Engineers