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ANZSCO 721212Updated 2026-01-29
Backhoe Operator
National shortage level: Low
ANZSCO 721212OSCA 741232
Snapshot
Median pay: AUD 109k
Weekly earnings: AUD 2110
Salary range: AUD 99k-AUD 120k
Job ads trend: Not listed
Time to hire: Varies
Visa pathways: Check eligibility
State distribution
30.6%
QLD
25.8%
NSW
24.8%
VIC
Education mix
47.3%
year 10 and below
30.4%
certificate iii/ iv
10.9%
year 12
Role overview
Backhoe Operators operate backhoes and attachments to excavate, break, drill, level and compact earth, rock and other material.
What you do
- • Prepares and positions plant for operation.
- • Selects, fits and removes attachments.
- • Operates controls.
Core skills
Credentials & pathway
- Recommended level: year 10 and below (47.3%)
Recent job ads
No ads listed yet.
Tasks
- • Monitors operation of plant and adjusts controls to regulate pressure, speed and flow of operation, and ensure safety of other workers.
- • Operates controls.
- • Prepares and positions plant for operation.
Earnings
Weekly median: AUD 2110
Annual median: AUD 109k
Range: AUD 99k-AUD 120k