
How do I become an Excavator Operator in Cairns?
Get qualified to work as an Excavator Operator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Course providers in Cairns
The following providers offer Excavator Operator courses in Cairns, Queensland.































Common questions
In Australia, a full time Excavator Operator generally earns $1,550 per week ($80,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
There are currently 9,500 people working as an Excavator Operator in Australia and this number has grown slightly in recent years. Five years ago there were 9,100 people in this job role. Excavator Operators may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
To become an Excavator Operator, consider the Certificate III in Trenchless Technology. This course will explore topics such as horizontal directional drilling, auger boring and pipe jacking. You’ll also look at subjects like workplace communication and occupational safety.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Excavator Operator
Further reading


Careers for people who love the outdoors
14th September 2021
What can you do with a Certificate III in Cleaning Operations?
2nd December 2021All excavator operator courses
- RII30820 Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations
- UETDREL004 Operate Plant and Equipment in the Vicinity of Live Electrical Apparatus
- RII20220 Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations
- RIISS00034 Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set
- RIICCM210E Install Trench Support
- VU21936 Observe for the Safe Operation of Plant and Equipment Around Overhead and Underground Assets
- RIIRTM203E Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter
- RII31619 Certificate III in Trenchless Technology
- RII30120 Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
- RIIMPO320F Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations
- Master of Science (Archaeological Science)
- RIIMPO301E Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations
Excavator Operator careers
Discover a wealth of opportunities in the construction industry with our comprehensive selection of Excavator Operator courses in Cairns. Whether you are starting your career or looking to upskill, there are 7 beginner courses available specifically designed for learners with no prior experience. Some popular courses include the Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations RIIMPO320F and the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations RII30820. Each course will equip you with the essential skills required to excel as an excavator operator.
Leading training provider TAFE Queensland offers these practical and industry-recognised courses. With hands-on training tailored to local requirements, you can gain valuable qualifications such as the Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations RII20220 and the Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations RIIMPO301E. Enrolling in these courses will not only enhance your skill set but also open doors to various job roles within the building and construction industry, ensuring you are well-prepared for the workforce.
Additionally, the Civil Construction field is ever-expanding in Cairns, providing numerous job prospects for trained excavator operators. Specialist courses such as the Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter RIIRTM203E and the Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set RIISS00034 ensure you are well-versed in safety protocols, crucial for any site work. Don't miss the chance to earn your qualifications through our Excavator Operator courses in Cairns today and take the first step towards a rewarding career in excavation and civil construction.