Fabrication, lifting & SMP · Specialist
Mining Crane Operator
Operates the nominated crane class within load charts, lift controls, ground conditions and the communication structure of the lift team.
Indicative 2026 pay$130k–$210kAnnual gross, generally before super
Common roster context2/1 and project rosters are common; shutdown campaigns may include nights.
Work environmentsHeavy maintenance · Construction · Shutdowns · Ports and workshops
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Operates the nominated crane class within load charts, lift controls, ground conditions and the communication structure of the lift team. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Complete crane pre-starts
- 02
Set up within ground and configuration limits
- 03
Interpret load charts
- 04
Operate to signals and lift plans
- 05
Monitor wind and changing conditions
- 06
Record defects and lift information
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
Slewing mobile cranes
- 02
Non-slewing mobile cranes
- 03
Pick-and-carry cranes
- 04
Tower or vehicle-loading cranes where licensed
- 05
Outriggers and mats
- 06
Rated-capacity indicators
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Correct high-risk work licence for the crane class
- 02
Verified competence on the model and configuration
- 03
Site lifting procedures
- 04
Medical, access and communication requirements
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Licence and crane class
- 02
Model, configuration and capacity
- 03
Load-chart and ground-condition decisions
- 04
Lift type, team and outcome
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Build dogging and lift-team experience
- 02
Complete the relevant crane licence pathway
- 03
Develop competence on specific crane types
- 04
Progress capacity and lift complexity deliberately
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Crane class and capacity
- 02
Complex or critical lifts
- 03
Project and shutdown utilisation
- 04
Night shift, travel and allowances
Before accepting
Questions to ask about the offer
- 01
Is the quoted figure base salary, total cash or a package including super?
- 02
Which roster, shift length and point of hire does the offer assume?
- 03
How are overtime, nights, public holidays, allowances, bonus and travel treated?
- 04
Which crane class, capacity, configuration and lift types are included?
Progression
Possible next moves.
Progression depends on demonstrated competence, vacancies, performance, qualifications and any appointment requirements. It is not automatic.
Keep exploring
Related role profiles.
Editorial note
Salary bands are broad 2026 Australian mining market guides, not promised rates. Role requirements summarise common practice and do not replace legislation, regulator guidance, an employment agreement, site procedures or a written appointment. Last reviewed 17 September 2026.