BACKHOE OPERATOR

ANZSCO Code: 721212

Operates a backhoe and attachments to excavate, break, drill, level and compact earth, rock and other material. Registration or licensing is required.

Skill Level

4

Group: EARTHMOVING PLANT OPERATORS

ANZSCO Code: 7212

EARTHMOVING PLANT OPERATORS operate plant to excavate earth, ore and rock, break up pavement, road, rock and obstructions, move and load earth, rock and debris, and level, smooth and compact surfaces in construction and other projects.

Indicative Skill Level

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications and experience outlined below. In Australia

In Australia

AQF Certificate II or III (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

In New Zealand

NZ Register Level 2 or 3 qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 4)

Tasks Include
  • preparing and positioning plant for operation
  • selecting, fitting and removing attachments such as buckets, winches, loading scoops, shovel blades and rock breaking hammers
  • operating controls to excavate, break, drill, level, compact, gouge out, move, load and spread earth, rock, rubble, soil and other materials
  • monitoring operation of plant and adjusting controls to regulate pressure, speed and flow of operation, and ensuring safety of other workers
  • raising, lowering and manipulating attachments using manual and hydraulic controls
  • working from drawings, markers and verbal instructions
  • servicing, lubricating, cleaning and refuelling plant and performing minor adjustments and repairs