Pile-Driver Operators

Pile-driver operators 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.

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demand
(through 2026)

moderate

time commitment

1 Year

average salary

$55070

job openings
(through 2026)

2,000+

what you’ll do

Move hand and foot levers of hoisting equipment to position piling leads, hoist piling into leads, and position hammers over pilings.
Conduct pre-operational checks on equipment to ensure proper functioning.
Drive pilings to provide support for buildings or other structures, using heavy equipment with a pile driver head.
Move levers and turn valves to activate power hammers, or to raise and lower drophammers that drive piles to required depths.
Clean, lubricate, and refill equipment.

education & training required

Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. Training can occur through a technical school, community college, registered apprenticeship program or an industry training program.

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