Production Operator Courses
A Production Operator in mining operates equipment to process, load, and move materials, ensuring safety, teamwork, and technical precision, often away from home.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
View all courses
How do I become a Production Operator
Get qualified to work as a Production Operator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
MSM30116
Duration
9 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
The Certificate III in Process Manufacturing is an entry-level qualification for students seeking manufacturing work on a production floor as part of a team. The course delivers hands-on skills that focus on personal safety; working to quality standards and a production schedule; picking and processing orders; preparing documentation and inventory reports. Click for the complete lesson plan as well as enrolment and funding requirements.
Career opportunities
Duration
9 weeks - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
Find a provider
FBP30121
Duration
Unknown - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Get a job at a food processing plant, grain mill, bakery, or dairy with the FBP30121 Certificate III in Food Processing. This nationally recognised qualification teaches you how to follow an organisation’s food safety plan as well as OHS, administration, compliance and technical skills. The course takes 6-12 months to complete and you can choose electives that match your actual job role in either production or packing. Enquire now for the full list of elective choices and upcoming enrolment dates near you.
Career opportunities
Duration
Unknown - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Find a provider
RIIMPO338E
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
The RIIMPO338E Conduct Rigid Haul Truck Operations provides comprehensive training in operating rigid haul trucks within Civil Construction, Coal, Metalliferous Mining, and Extractive industries. Participants will learn essential skills for loading, hauling, and dumping materials safely and efficiently using rigid haul trucks. This unit is designed for individuals in operational roles seeking proficiency in rigid haul truck operations.
Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements and available enrolment dates.
Career opportunities
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
Find a provider
PMA20116
Study mode
On Campus, Online
The Certificate II in Process Plant Operations (PMA20116) is a 12-week training course with a heavy focus on operational safety. It’s a nationally recognised qualification ideal for processing plant operators and technicians who need a formal qualification that recognises that skills and experience. You can also choose elective units that support your existing job role: working in confined spaces, operating breathing apparatus, working at heights, controlling minor incidents.
Enquire now for a course sche...
Career opportunities
Study mode
On Campus, Online
Find a provider
View all
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Production Operator.
Common questions
How much does a Production Operator earn?
In Australia, a full time Production 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.
What are the job opportunities for a Production Operator?
This industry has seen a decrease in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 32,300 people employed as a Production Operator in Australia, compared to 37,200 five years ago. Production Operators may find work in regions of Australia where mining takes place, often in regional, rural or remote areas.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Production Operator?
A Certificate III in Resource Processing is an ideal qualification if you’re planning a career as a Production Operator. This course covers a range of topics including workplace communication, risk management and safety, environmental protocols, quality standards, complying with work processes, operating equipment and heavy machinery, monitoring pipelines and boilers and responding to emergencies.
Choose a field of study
A career as a manufacturing engineer crosses a wide range of exciting industries (automotive, textiles, marine, aviation, pharmaceuticals etc) and contributes to a thriving economy.
All courses
A course in aerospace engineering can give you the skills to design a range of aircraft and other aerospace technologies. Pathways for domestic and international students.
Career opportunities
View all
A biomedical engineering job gives you the chance to use groundbreaking tenets of the overall engineering sector to help improve the quality of life of everyday Australians. Pathways for domestic and international students.
Career opportunities
View all
Gain expertise in chemical reactions, process optimization, and sustainable solutions from industry professionals and renowned institutions. Pathways for domestic and international students.
Career opportunities
View all
All courses
More information
A Production Operator uses a range of plant and equipment in the mining industry. You might work in a metalliferous processing facility or in coal preparation. Production Operators might load or move materials around a facility for processing, get them ready for transport or use separating or other processing equipment.
Production Operators should have strong communication skills and be able to work as part of a team. You’ll need to be safety focused and have strong technical abilities. Production Operators need to follow correct procedures during their work. Depending on your role and the location of your work, you may be required to be away from home for periods of time.
Courses by location