
How do I become an Excavator Operator in Northern Territory?
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 Northern Territory
The following providers offer Excavator Operator courses in Northern Territory.



























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
- RII20220 Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations
- UETDREL004 Operate Plant and Equipment in the Vicinity of Live Electrical Apparatus
- Master of Science (Archaeological Science)
- RIIMPO301E Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations
- RII30120 Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations
- VU21936 Observe for the Safe Operation of Plant and Equipment Around Overhead and Underground Assets
- RIIMPO320F Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations
- RIISS00034 Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set
- RIICCM210E Install Trench Support
- RII31619 Certificate III in Trenchless Technology
- RIIRTM203E Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter
Excavator Operator careers
If you're interested in starting a career as an excavator operator, there are numerous opportunities available in Northern Territory. With a range of Excavator Operator courses in Northern Territory, you can easily gain the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in this field. Many of the courses on offer are tailored for beginners, making it an excellent starting point for those with no prior experience or qualifications in excavation and civil construction.
One of the standout beginner courses available is the Conduct Civil Construction Excavator Operations RIIMPO320F. This course equips you with the essential operational skills required to safely handle excavators in civil construction. It's important to consider reputable training providers, such as SJT, who deliver high-quality education and preparation for the workforce in this vital sector of the Northern Territory economy.
Another solid option for those looking to further their skills is the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations RII30820. This qualification not only focuses on excavator operations but also provides a broader understanding of machinery in civil construction. Enrolling in this course can open up further job opportunities within the region, supporting various infrastructure projects underway in Northern Territory.
For those with an interest in surface extraction, you might like to consider the Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations RII20220 or the Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations RII30120. These qualifications are invaluable for gaining expertise in operating equipment in a mining context, providing a pathway into one of the most significant industries in Northern Territory.
In addition to these core courses, further training such as the Work as a Safety Observer/Spotter RIIRTM203E, Conduct Hydraulic Excavator Operations RIIMPO301E, and the Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set RIISS00034 can significantly enhance your skills and employability. With the right training, embarking on a fulfilling career as an excavator operator in Northern Territory is well within your reach! Explore the various Excavator Operator courses in Northern Territory to find the course that suits you best.