Just some of your
CAREER choices
Discover a career in
the civil industry as a…
OPERATOR
THE ROLE
You will be outdoors and will NOT work in an office! You can specialise in particular plant types, or cover a range.
THE CAREER
WHERE WILL YOU WORK?
Everywhere! You could be working on roads, bridges, dams, pipelines, railway lines, tunnels, farms (including wind and solar), golf courses, houses and building sites…the options go on!
WHO WILL EMPLOY YOU?
You will have lots of choice. Small, medium and large businesses, local councils, and Government agencies.
HOW SAFE IS IT?
Modern equipment is very, very safe. The civil construction industry is primarily funded by Government so is very safety focused.
Just some of your
CAREER choices
THE TRAINING
IS THERE TRAINING PROVIDED AND WILL IT COST YOU?
Your employer will train you and pay for it. If you want to get a qualification it will be paid for by the employer and the Government.
IS THERE A QUALIFICATION?
Yes, if you want. It’s not essential, but you can receive a Nationally Recognised Qualification such as a Certificate III in Plant Operations.
CAN YOU GET A TRADE?
Yes, in most States ‘Plant Operations’ is a Trade.
REQUIREMENTS
WHO IS SUITED TO THE JOB?
Your employer will train you and pay for it. If you want to get a qualification it will be paid for by the employer and the Government.
HOW OLD DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO START?
You have to be at least 14 years of age. (conditions apply)
ARE THERE ANY PREREQUISITES TO STARTING?
No. Your employer will even pay for your safety gear!
THE FUTURE
IS THERE A FUTURE CAREER?
Yes! This is a great starting point and you will have lots of options. You could become a specialist plant operator, a manager, set up your own business, or even go on to university and become an engineer. Many senior people and business owners in the industry started out as plant operators.
WILL YOU HAVE TO MOVE AROUND?
No. It’s your call when you choose between jobs as some employers have projects in different locations. If you do move, your expenses are often covered by the employer.
CAN YOU GET MORE SKILLS LATER?
Yes, if you want to. There are Certificate IVs, Diplomas and management courses you can do. It’s your call what you do and how far you go!
CAN YOU GO TO UNI ONE DAY?
Yes. The practical skills you learn will be very useful for engineering-related courses.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
There are a few options… Many work for a bit as a Site Hand to learn the ropes. However, it’s also possible to start directly as a Plant Operator.
“What a job… I get paid lots to have fun!
I love this industry and the people in it”
Kaylene – Wife. Mum of two. Plant Operator for 10 years.