Operating a skid steer loader requires skill, precision, and knowledge to handle these powerful machines safely and effectively. As a specialist seeking to advance your career, proper training and certification can set you apart by demonstrating your advanced capabilities. This guide will provide an overview of specialist-level skid steer training, the key skills covered, and the value of certification.

The Need for Advanced Skid Steer Training

A skid steer loader, also known as a skid steer or skid-steer, is a versatile machine used across various industries from construction to landscaping. With their ability to maneuver in tight spaces via steering clutches and lift and move materials with an attached bucket or attachment, skid steers perform critical functions on many job sites.

However, these compact loaders can also pose hazards if not operated properly. Their small footprint allows them to tip or rollover if carrying too much weight or turning too quickly. Unsafe operation can also lead to collisions, runovers, falling objects, and other incidents resulting in severe injury or death. Proper training is essential to prevent accidents.

While entry-level skid steer training covers the basics of machine operation, advanced specialist training takes both skills and safety knowledge to the next level. Given the risks involved, construction companies, landscapers, rental houses, demolishers, and other employers are increasingly requiring operators to complete advanced certification.

Understanding the key components of advanced training and certification can help specialists capitalize on career opportunities by verifying specialized skills.

Core Competencies Covered in Advanced Training

Advanced skid steer certification confirms an operator has mastered key skills beyond fundamental machine operation. While programs may vary, most specialist-tier training focuses on:

Specialized Machine Controls and Features

Understanding how to utilize attachments including augers, grapples, trenchers or cold planers based on their special control requirements
Interpreting instrument panel readings to diagnose mechanical issues before they cause machine failure
Adjusting settings and parameters to optimize skid steer performance for specific tasks or materials

Working on Challenging Jobsites

Assessing risks on sites with restricted access, uneven terrain, hazardous materials, or other complicating factors
Modifying techniques to lift, load, haul, dump or stack material given site conditions and limitations
Identifying required personal protective equipment (PPE) and following safety protocols for unique worksites

Mastering Operation Techniques

Executing advanced maneuvers including operating on slopes, making offset turns, and performing blind lifts safely
Controlling the machine precisely when grading, excavating trenches, loading trucks, or placing materials
Developing skills and decision-making needed to handle emergency situations or brake/steering failures

Reputable advanced programs also incorporate comprehensive safety training into technical instruction on machine operation.

The Benefits of Earning Advanced Certification

Along with validating expanded expertise in skid steer operation, advanced specialist certification offers operators key advantages including:

Increased Job Opportunities

Many well-paying jobs now require advanced certification to verify operators have the skills needed to take on more complex projects. Specialized credentials qualify operators for a wider range of positions.

Higher Wages

Given the risks of working with heavy machinery, employers offer premium pay for advanced certified operators who have proven their ability to handle these loaders safely in difficult situations. Skills equal higher earning potential.

Enhanced Employer Confidence

Third-party certification demonstrates an operator’s competency to employers. This credential inspires confidence in a specialist’s skills, safety mindset and professionalism.

Industry Recognition

Much like earning a commercial driver’s license, advanced skid steer certification highlights operators who attain higher skill levels. Specialized credentials signal an operator’s experience and capabilities to colleagues.

For skid steer specialists seeking to take their career to the next level, advanced certification is key to unlocking more job opportunities, higher pay and enhanced industry standing.

Choosing the Right Advanced Training Program

With the demand for advanced certified operators on the rise, a number of trainer providers now offer specialist-tier skid steer programs. Choosing quality instruction is essential to ensure you master techniques correctly and safely. Be sure to select an established program that:

Publishes passing rates, scores and trainee reviews
Employs only experienced, certified instructors
Provides trainees ample hands-on machine time
Covers both key technical and safety skills in-depth
Culminates in a third-party administered skills assessment

Reputable training organizations like visit Operator School for more details understand advanced skid steer operation requires practice on the machines along with classroom reinforcement. After enrolling, prepare by studying your operator’s manual and safety protocols so you’re ready to make the most of your sessions.

With formalized advanced training now becoming the industry norm, taking this step to boost your skills and marketability is essential for advancing your career.

Next Steps to Advance Your Skid Steer Credentials

If you’re ready to elevate your expertise to meet current job market demands for specialized operators, here are next steps to launching your advanced skid steer training:

Research Respected Training Providers

Compare class offerings, instructor experience, certification process and trainee outcomes when selecting your training provider. Focus on established schools with specialist-tier skid steer programs.

Enroll in the Right Program

Choose an advanced certification track that aligns with your experience level and career goals. Prepare for training by brushing up on safety procedures and machine best practices.

Commit to Hands-On Practice

Maximizing time operating equipment under expert supervision during training is vital to advancing your skills. Be ready to refine techniques until you can execute maneuvers consistently and precisely.

Verify Your Advanced Credentials

After demonstrating your mastery during training, take and pass the evaluator-administered field test to document your advanced certification. This becomes your ticket to more opportunities.

By making the investment in formalized specialist-tier training now, you position yourself to be an in-demand, highly compensated skid steer operator. Act today to enroll with a top-rated advanced program so you can take the next step forward in your career.

For further details on advanced certification programs, visit Operator School to explore respected training options.