Operations · Skilled
Mobile Plant Operator
Operates one or more production or ancillary machines while managing interactions, ground conditions, defects and mine traffic rules.
Indicative 2026 pay$105k–$160kAnnual gross, generally before super
Common roster contextCommonly 7/7, 8/6, 2/1 or 2/2 across rotating days and nights.
Work environmentsOpen-pit production · Civil and rehabilitation · ROM and stockpiles · Mine services
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Operates one or more production or ancillary machines while managing interactions, ground conditions, defects and mine traffic rules. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Conduct pre-starts
- 02
Operate within site and machine limits
- 03
Maintain safe separation
- 04
Identify changing ground conditions
- 05
Report defects and delays
- 06
Complete production handovers
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
Dozers
- 02
Graders
- 03
Loaders
- 04
Excavators
- 05
Water carts
- 06
Ancillary equipment
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Employer verification for each machine
- 02
Relevant driver or civil competencies where required
- 03
Site medical and induction
- 04
Task, traffic and fatigue-management competence
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Machine make, class and hours
- 02
Operating environment and material
- 03
Hazard and defect decisions
- 04
Consistency, attendance and verifiable referee
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Enter through trainee, civil or contractor pathways
- 02
Become competent on one machine
- 03
Build safe, consistent hours
- 04
Add machines based on operational demand
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Machine class
- 02
Multi-skilling
- 03
Production environment
- 04
Roster, nights and location
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.