How much does a pile driver operator make?

In the United States, experienced operators and workers with in-demand skills or required licenses may earn more. Pay can also vary by employer, job duties, location, and the hours or late-night shifts a project requires.

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.

What's a typical day like?

Operators inspect, clean, and refuel the rig, then work its levers to lift a heavy pile and hammer it into the ground to support a building or bridge. They monitor the machine and follow safety rules at the construction site.

In the U.S., one route is to get hired by an approved contractor and enter an apprenticeship; a California program lasts four years and accepts applicants from age 17. Some states or cities require equipment or crane licenses.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

In the United States, some pile driver operators work on offshore oil rigs.