
How do I become an Excavator Operator in New South Wales?
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 New South Wales
The following providers offer Excavator Operator courses in New South Wales.










































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
- RIIMPO301E Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations
- RIIRTM203E Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter
- VU21936 Observe for the Safe Operation of Plant and Equipment Around Overhead and Underground Assets
- RIICCM210E Install Trench Support
- UETDREL004 Operate Plant and Equipment in the Vicinity of Live Electrical Apparatus
- RII30120 Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
- RIISS00034 Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set
- RII20220 Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations
- RIIMPO320F Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations
- RII31619 Certificate III in Trenchless Technology
- Master of Science (Archaeological Science)
Excavator Operator careers
For those aspiring to launch a career as an excavator operator, the Excavator Operator courses in New South Wales provide comprehensive training tailored for beginners. With eight available courses in the region, these programs are designed to equip candidates with the skills necessary for operating excavators in various civil construction environments. Notable courses include the popular Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations RIIMPO320F and the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations RII30820, both of which set the foundation for a rewarding career in the construction industry.
The delivery of Excavator Operator courses in New South Wales is handled by several recognised training providers. For instance, NC offers the Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations course, while CTPM provides the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations. Other providers such as KT and Thomson Bridge serve as valuable resources for learners, ensuring access to quality training that meets industry standards. This support bolsters the chances of job placements after graduation, making these courses particularly advantageous for individuals looking to enter the field.
In addition to excavator operation, those completing these courses will find a wealth of related job roles available within the construction sector. Graduates can pursue positions such as Construction Labourer, Site Foreman, and even Construction Manager. These career paths not only offer the chance to specialise further but also to increase earning potential within the labour market. Networking and gaining experience through these courses can significantly enhance a learner’s employability in the vibrant construction industry of New South Wales.
As the construction industry continues to thrive in New South Wales, the demand for skilled excavator operators remains high. Enrolling in one of the Excavator Operator courses in New South Wales is an opportunity to gain essential skills and industry-recognised qualifications that are highly sought after by employers. Additionally, the diverse job opportunities that stem from completing these courses - such as Pipelayer or Mobile Crane Operator - serve to reinforce the value of this educational investment.
By taking the leap into one of the many excavator operator courses available, individuals can pave their way towards a fulfilling career within the construction industry. With quality training delivered by reputable providers in New South Wales, learners can rest assured that they are receiving the best preparation for their future roles. As the region's construction sector continues to expand, opportunities for certified excavator operators are robust, making this the ideal time to enrol and begin a promising new journey.