Excavating and Loading Machine Operator Training and Progression
What is an Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operator, Surface Mining?
Excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining are responsible for operating heavy equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and other equipment used in mining operations. Surface mining involves removing coal, minerals, and other materials from the earth’s surface safely and efficiently.
Examples of the Job
Excavating and loading machine operators work in surface mining operations. Some examples of the job include:
- Operate mobile mining equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders
- Monitor equipment operations and ensure they are operating within the safety parameters
- Perform routine maintenance on equipment and report malfunctions or maintenance issues to the maintenance department
- Follow safety protocols while working on site such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, keeping the work area clean, and using proper lifting techniques.
Education and Training Requirements?
Most employers require at least a high school diploma or equivalent to work in Excavating and Loading Machine Operator positions. Operators typically receive on-the-job training and may need to acquire a commercial driver’s license to operate certain heavy machinery. The training process also involves getting a certification in heavy equipment operation, which is often offered through vocational schools or community colleges.
How to Progress in the Field
Advancement opportunities exist for experienced excavating and loading machine operators to move up to management positions or supervisory roles. Typically, advancement is possible through experience and taking on more responsibilities in the roles they play. Different paths to advancement may exist, but it majorly depends on the organisation one is working with.
How to Get into the Field as a Newcomer?
One way to get into the field is to take relevant qualifications that match the requirements needed by potential employer. It may well involve securing an apprenticeship with a mining company or a related heavy machinery manufacturer. Another way to get started is to volunteer to work on construction sites, where they can learn hands-on experience. However, to operate equipment, a Certificate of Competency in Mining is required, learners can do this by undertaking a course through a registered training organization.
| Geography | Unionization | Job Level | Average Salary (Low) | Average Salary (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US National Average | Union | All levels | $56,784.00 | $71,198.40 |
| US National Average | Nonunion | All levels | $46,633.60 | $48,464.00 |
| US National Average | N/A | Not able to be leveled | $61,817.60 | $56,659.20 |
| Wisconsin | N/A | All levels | $54,912.00 | $56,555.20 |
| Florida | Nonunion | All levels | $40,560.00 | $43,305.60 |
Excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining is a job that involves operating heavy machinery to dig and extract materials from the earth’s surface. The job level of this occupation can range from level 04 to level 05, depending on the worker’s experience and expertise. The US national average salary for excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining is $46,363.20 to $60,569.60, and it varies based on the job level, unionization, full-time or time-based pay.
Unionization has a significant impact on this job’s salary, with union workers earning significantly higher than nonunion workers. Unionized excavating and loading machine and dragline operators in the US earn an average salary of $71,198.40, whereas nonunion workers earn $48,464.00 on average.
Wisconsin is among the highest-paying states for this job, with full-time employees earning an average salary of $56,555.20. On the other hand, Florida pays the least to excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, with nonunion workers earning an average salary of $43,305.60.
In summary, excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining is a crucial job that requires special skills and expertise. Unionization and geographic location significantly impact this occupation’s salary, with unionized workers earning higher pay and the state of Wisconsin offering the highest salary on average.
