Operations · Entry
Haul Truck Operator
Operates haul trucks to move waste or ore safely between loading, dumping and stockpile locations in surface mining operations.
Indicative 2026 pay$105k–$160kAnnual gross, generally before super
Common roster context7/7, 8/6, 2/1 and 2/2 rosters occur, usually across day and night shifts.
Work environmentsOpen pits · Waste dumps · ROM pads · Autonomous and conventional haulage areas
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Operates haul trucks to move waste or ore safely between loading, dumping and stockpile locations in surface mining operations. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Complete pre-start inspections
- 02
Operate to pit traffic rules
- 03
Position safely for loading and dumping
- 04
Monitor machine condition
- 05
Communicate hazards and delays
- 06
Manage fatigue and handovers
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
Rigid haul trucks
- 02
Water carts where verified
- 03
Fleet management systems
- 04
Radios
- 05
Collision-awareness systems
- 06
Autonomous haulage interfaces
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Driver licence and site requirements
- 02
Employer training and verification on the truck class
- 03
Medical and fitness-for-work requirements
- 04
Site inductions and traffic-management competence
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Truck class and operating hours
- 02
Pit, dump and traffic environment
- 03
Pre-start and defect escalation
- 04
Production, safety and attendance record without invented metrics
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Build reliable safety and shift-work evidence
- 02
Target genuine trainee operator campaigns
- 03
Complete employer training and verification
- 04
Develop consistent operating and defect-reporting habits
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Trainee or experienced status
- 02
Machine class and multi-skilling
- 03
Roster and location
- 04
Owner-operator or contractor employment
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?
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.