
How do I become an Excavator Operator in Mackay?
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 Mackay
The following providers offer Excavator Operator courses in Mackay, 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
- RIIMPO301E Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations
- RIIRTM203E Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter
- RII31619 Certificate III in Trenchless Technology
- RIICCM210E Install Trench Support
- VU21936 Observe for the Safe Operation of Plant and Equipment Around Overhead and Underground Assets
- RII20220 Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations
- RIIMPO320F Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations
- Master of Science (Archaeological Science)
- RIISS00034 Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set
- RII30120 Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
Excavator Operator careers
For those aspiring to step into a rewarding career in the construction industry, exploring Excavator Operator courses in Mackay is an essential first step. These courses cater to beginners with no prior experience, ensuring that students gain the necessary skills to operate excavators safely and efficiently. Notable offerings include the Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations RIIMPO320F and the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations RII30820, both designed to provide foundational knowledge vital for a successful career in the field.
Mackay, located in Queensland, Australia, is a hub for civil construction and mining industries, making it an ideal location for those interested in working as an Excavator Operator. By taking part in courses such as the Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations RII20220 and the Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations RIIMPO301E, students not only acquire the technical skills needed but also open doors to various employment opportunities. Completing these courses enhances employability, paving the way for roles across sectors such as civil construction and mining.
In addition to technical training, students who complete Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter RIIRTM203E can further distinguish themselves in the field by ensuring safety on jobsites. Additional courses like the Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set RIISS00034 ensure that operators are well-versed in industry safety protocols, which are crucial in preventing accidents and maintaining compliance within Mackay's busy construction and mining environments.
Beyond practical skills, pursuing a career in the construction sector opens doors to various job roles, such as Construction Supervisor, Site Foreman, and Construction Manager. As learners complete Construction Estimator training and gain practical experience, they can progress steadily along their career path. The comprehensive Civil Construction courses available in Mackay equip individuals not only for Excavator Operator roles but for a myriad of career advancements in the dynamic construction landscape.