The EO Rating
In 1948, the Driver rating was established from the original rating of Machinist's Mate (Construction Battalion) (Equipment Operators), then in 1958 the rating was changed to Equipment Operator.
Equipment Operators work with heavy machinery such as bulldozers, power shovels, pile drivers, rollers and graders, etc. They use this machinery to dig ditches and excavate for building foundations, to break up old concrete or asphalt paving and pour new paving, to loosen soil and grade it, to dig out tree truncks and rocks, and to remove debris from construction sites.
The skills learned by the EO fully transfer to similar jobs in the civilian world. This is a five-year (60 month) enlistment program.
Equipment Operator (EO)
Equipment Operators perform tasks involving deployment and operation of automotive, materials handling, weight lifting, and construction equipment. They direct and coordinate efforts of individuals and crews in execution of construction, earth-moving, road building, quarrying, asphalt batching and paving, concrete batch plant operations, concrete paving, and transit mixer operation assignments.
EOs maintain records and reports on mobile and stationary equipment, and organize and supervise automotive and construction equipment pools. They maintain individual combat readiness, and perform tasks required in combat and disaster preparedness or recovery operations.
Qualifications, Interests, and Working Environment
Important qualifications are a competence with tools, equipment and machines; manual dexterity; and the ability to do repetitive tasks. Knowledge of algebra and good arithmetic, writing and speaking skills, along with a good memory, resourcefulness and curiosity, are helpful.
EOs should also be able to keep records, do detailed work and perform well as part of a team. Normal color perception with stereoscopic vision, good physical condition, and normal hearing are required. Must possess a valid driver's license.
EOs may work in a variety of conditions, independently or as members of a large team. Their many different duties may be performed in climates ranging from tropical to arctic. The EO ASVAB Test requirement.
Credit Recommendations
The American Council on Education recommends the following semester hour credits in the associate and vocational degree programs, 8 semester hours in heavy construction equipment operations, 3 semester hours in construction equipment maintenance, and 1 semester hour in construction sitework. An AA in Construction Technology can be earned from Coastline Community College.