Excavator Operator Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship 2026 offer skilled heavy equipment operators an opportunity to build a stable mining career with Thiess at the Olive Downs Complex in Queensland. The role provides permanent employment, FIFO/BIBO/DIDO options, competitive benefits, training, and career growth opportunities. Candidates with mining experience, safety certifications, and excavator operation skills can apply to join one of Australia’s leading mining companies.
Excavator Operator Jobs at Thiess Australia
Thiess is a global mining services company with more than 90 years of experience delivering mining solutions across Australia, Asia, and the Americas. The company focuses on safe operations, sustainable mining practices, and developing skilled employees through training and career progression.
Thiess is currently seeking Excavator Operators for its Olive Downs Complex project with Pembroke Resources, located near Moranbah in Queensland’s Bowen Basin. The project involves complete mining operations, including mine planning, drilling, blasting, material handling, rehabilitation, and mine infrastructure development.
Successful candidates will join permanent positions working on an even-time 7/7 day and night rotating roster with 12-hour shifts. The role supports FIFO, BIBO, and DIDO arrangements, making it suitable for workers seeking flexible mining employment options.
Job Responsibilities
Excavator Operators at Thiess play an important role in maintaining safe and productive mining operations. Main responsibilities include:
- Operating large-scale mining excavators and heavy equipment efficiently.
- Following workplace health and safety procedures at all times.
- Supporting production targets through accurate and controlled equipment operation.
- Inspecting machinery and reporting maintenance issues.
- Working collaboratively with supervisors and mining teams.
- Maintaining a strong safety-first attitude on site.
Job Requirements for Excavator Operators
Candidates applying for Excavator Operator Jobs in Australia should meet several important requirements:
- Minimum 12 months of experience operating production mining equipment.
- Previous experience with large excavators such as 9800, 9600, or 996 models is preferred.
- Current open Australian driver’s licence or equivalent eligibility.
- Valid Standard 11 Mining Induction Certificate.
- SSE-signed competency training records.
- Strong understanding of mining safety procedures.
- Ability to work rotating day and night shifts.
Experience with CAT MineStar technologies, including Command for Haulage, Fleet Management, or Terrain systems, can provide an advantage during recruitment.
Skills Needed for Excavator Operator Jobs
Successful excavator operators require a combination of technical and personal skills, including:
Heavy Equipment Operation: Ability to safely control large mining machinery in challenging environments.
Safety Awareness: Understanding of mining regulations and commitment to preventing workplace incidents.
Communication Skills: Ability to coordinate effectively with supervisors, operators, and maintenance teams.
Problem-Solving Ability: Capability to identify equipment issues and make quick operational decisions.
Teamwork: Willingness to contribute to a positive and supportive workplace culture.
Benefits of Working with Thiess
Thiess provides employees with more than just a job. The company focuses on long-term career development and employee wellbeing.
Key benefits include:
- Permanent employment opportunities with strong job security.
- Competitive salary packages and superannuation contributions.
- Paid flights from Brisbane for eligible employees.
- BIBO options from Mackay and Proserpine.
- Training programs to improve skills and career progression.
- Supportive leadership and mentoring opportunities.
- Salary sacrifice options, including vehicle leasing.
- Corporate discounts on health insurance, travel, and retail services.
- Opportunity to work with modern mining equipment and technology.
Visa Sponsorship Opportunities in Australia
Australia continues to welcome skilled workers in industries facing labour shortages, including mining and heavy equipment operations. Qualified overseas applicants may have opportunities to access employer-supported visa pathways depending on eligibility, experience, and current immigration requirements.
International applicants should ensure they have relevant certifications, mining experience, and documentation before applying. Strong practical experience and safety qualifications can improve employment prospects.
Why Choose a Mining Career with Thiess?
Working with Thiess provides the opportunity to join a company that values safety, innovation, and employee growth. The organization invests in training programs, sustainable mining methods, and advanced technology to improve mining operations.
Employees are encouraged to develop new skills, take on challenging projects, and progress into higher-level roles within the mining industry. Thiess promotes an inclusive workplace where every team member is respected and supported.
How to Apply for Excavator Operator Jobs in Australia
Candidates interested in Excavator Operator Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship 2026 can apply through Thiess recruitment channels. Applicants should prepare an updated resume highlighting mining experience, equipment operation skills, licences, and safety certificates.
Successful candidates may need to complete pre-employment checks, including employment references, police verification, and medical assessments. These steps help ensure workers meet Australian mining safety standards.
A career as an Excavator Operator with Thiess offers an excellent pathway for skilled workers looking for stability, growth, and international mining experience. With strong demand for qualified operators, 2026 presents valuable opportunities to join Australia’s world-class mining industry.