Take on more complex work, mentoring and quality accountability while building evidence for the next formal step.
Compare roles and pay →Operations · Specialist
Excavator or shovel operator
Loads production haul units from a defined dig face while managing floor, material, traffic and mine-plan constraints.
Indicative 2026 annual cash$120k–$180kGross, generally before super
Common roster context7/7, 8/6 and 2/1 are possible; continuous operations may rotate days and nights.
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Loads production haul units from a defined dig face while managing floor, material, traffic and mine-plan constraints. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Inspect and position the machine
- 02
Load trucks to site dig and traffic controls
- 03
Communicate changing face and material conditions
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
Production excavators and shovels
- 02
Fleet dispatch and radio
- 03
Dig plans and guidance systems
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Verified competence on the equipment class and mine area
- 02
Open-pit traffic and ground controls
- 03
A small civil excavator ticket is not large mining shovel authority
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Machine model and hours
- 02
Bench, material and truck interface
- 03
Defect and abnormal-condition decisions
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Build safe mobile plant operating time
- 02
Gain supervised loading-machine exposure
- 03
Pass equipment and area verification
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Experience and verified scope
- 02
Roster, location and shift pattern
- 03
Employer, contract and allowances
Before accepting
Questions to ask about the offer
- 01
Is this base salary, gross cash or a package including super?
- 02
Which roster, point of hire, ordinary hours and overtime terms apply?
- 03
What duties, equipment and written authorities are included in the offer?
Progression
Possible next moves.
Delivers structured workplace learning and assesses people against a defined task, competency or training product.
Related role band: $120k–$175kLeads a defined crew or work front, translating the plan into safe, controlled execution while managing people, interfaces and changing conditions.
Related role band: $150k–$210kProgression depends on demonstrated competence, vacancies, performance, qualifications and any appointment requirements. A related profile is a starting point, not a guarantee of that exact title or scope. Browse all 98 role profiles →
Keep exploring
Related role profiles.
Sources and role examples
Editorial note
Salary bands are broad 2026 Australian mining comparisons, not promised rates. Role requirements summarise common practice and do not replace legislation, regulator guidance, an employment agreement, site procedures or a written appointment. Pay presentation reviewed 27 September 2026.