Tamper
A tamper is an essential piece of construction equipment used to compact soil, gravel, or other materials to create a solid, stable foundation. It can be either hand-operated (also called a hand tamper) or machine-powered (known as a power tamper or jumping jack). Construction workers use tampers to prepare ground for buildings, roads, or landscaping projects. This tool helps ensure the ground won't settle or shift after construction, which could cause structural problems. You might see this equipment referred to as a "compactor," "plate compactor," or "rammer" in job descriptions and resumes.
Examples in Resumes
Operated Tamper and other compaction equipment to prepare foundations for residential construction
Experienced with both hand Tamper and power Tamper operations for soil preparation
Supervised crew of 5 in site preparation using Tamper equipment
Maintained and serviced Tamper machines as part of equipment maintenance program
Typical job title: "Tamper Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Tamper Operators
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you train new operators on tamper equipment?
Expected Answer: A senior operator should discuss safety procedures, proper technique demonstration, supervision methods, and common mistakes to watch for when training new staff.
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between different types of tampers for a project?
Expected Answer: Should explain how soil type, project size, access to area, and compaction requirements influence equipment choice, showing experience in project planning.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you determine if soil is properly compacted?
Expected Answer: Should describe visual indicators, testing methods, and understanding of soil density requirements for different types of projects.
Q: What maintenance procedures do you follow for tamper equipment?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular maintenance schedules, common wear points, fuel/oil checks, and basic troubleshooting procedures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety equipment is required when operating a tamper?
Expected Answer: Should list basic safety gear like steel-toe boots, eye protection, ear protection, and work gloves, showing awareness of basic safety requirements.
Q: Describe the basic operation of a power tamper.
Expected Answer: Should explain starting procedures, proper stance, forward movement technique, and basic safety considerations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic tamper operation
- Safety procedures
- Basic maintenance checks
- Following supervisor instructions
Mid (1-3 years)
- Multiple types of tamper operation
- Equipment maintenance
- Soil type recognition
- Project requirement understanding
Senior (3+ years)
- Training and supervision
- Project planning
- Advanced equipment operation
- Problem-solving and troubleshooting
Red Flags to Watch For
- No safety certification or awareness
- Unable to describe basic maintenance procedures
- No experience with different soil types
- Lack of physical stamina for equipment operation
Related Terms
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