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Production Operator

ANZSCO 711514

A Production Operator in mining operates equipment to process, load, and move materials, ensuring safety, teamwork, and technical precision, often away from home.

  • 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.
      • WA
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

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.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Production Operator.

Common questions

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.

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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

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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.

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Further reading

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Production Operator careers

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.