
This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
Explore all careersA Loader Operator moves materials on-site using various machinery, ensuring safety, teamwork, and time management, with roles in industries like forestry and mining.
Get qualified to work as a Loader Operator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
In Australia, a full time Loader Operator generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
The number of people working in this industry has dropped slightly in recent years. There are currently 5,200 people employed as a Loader Operator in Australia, compared to 6,300 five years ago. Loader Operators may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
A Certificate II in Harvesting and Haulage is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Loader Operator. This course will give you the skills to work on a forestry harvest crew and allows you to specialise in areas such as harvest operations, fire control, warehousing, grading and testing, safety, quality and business administration.
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If you're looking to start a career as a Loader Operator, there are numerous Loader Operator courses in Queensland tailored for beginners with no prior experience or qualifications. With a choice of 15 different courses, aspiring Loader Operators can gain the essential skills needed through programs such as the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations RII30820 and the Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations RII20220. These courses not only offer valuable hands-on training but also ensure that you are well-prepared for roles in the industry.
Additionally, the Loader Operator job roles are linked to vital fields of study, such as Building and Construction and Civil Construction. Completing a Loader Operator course may lead you to various career paths, including positions as a Construction Labourer, Construction Manager, or even a Construction Supervisor. With these diverse options, students can align their training with their career aspirations and the specific demands of the Queensland job market.
Learning to operate heavy machinery safely and effectively is a critical aspect of becoming a successful Loader Operator. Courses such as the Conduct Civil Construction Skid Steer Loader Operations RIIMPO318F and the Conduct Wheel Loader Operations RIIMPO304E offer comprehensive training that is recognised by industry standards. This preparation can play a pivotal role in advancing your career, allowing you to pursue opportunities like a Construction Project Manager or a Building Contractor. Enrolling in one of the Loader Operator courses in Queensland is an investment in your professional future and opens the door to exciting job opportunities across the region.