Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining
Excavating and loading machine operators at surface mining sites run heavy equipment with scoops, shovels, or buckets to dig up and load loose materials like coal, ore, or aggregates. These operators work outdoors at mines and quarries, moving earth and materials according to site plans and safety requirements.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical shift involves operating draglines or excavators to remove overburden or load material into haul trucks. Operators inspect equipment before use, position machinery precisely, monitor hydraulic systems and bucket positioning, and communicate with ground crews via radio. They work in all weather conditions, follow production schedules, and maintain detailed logs of material moved and equipment performance.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd do well in this work if you prefer hands-on, practical tasks over abstract problem-solving and are comfortable following established procedures and safety rules. People suited for this role like seeing tangible results from their labor and working independently in outdoor settings with clear, structured job expectations.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $59,930 | $90,380 | $120,080 | 220 |
| Illinois | $57,720 | $80,600 | $87,580 | 1,310 |
| New Jersey | $62,490 | $80,310 | $122,950 | 740 |
| Wyoming | $70,010 | $78,230 | $79,870 | 420 |
| New Mexico | $50,450 | $76,350 | $76,350 | 270 |
| Massachusetts | $62,910 | $76,070 | $80,220 | 280 |
| Alaska | $62,140 | $74,680 | $93,270 | 140 |
| California | $61,240 | $74,500 | $98,690 | 790 |
| Montana | $52,430 | $65,850 | $81,480 | 150 |
| Connecticut | $60,180 | $65,710 | $79,760 | 280 |
| Washington | $59,940 | $64,270 | $77,930 | 640 |
| Nevada | $57,960 | $63,810 | $83,030 | 730 |
All 49 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Heavy Equipment Operator: Excavator — National Center for Construction Education and Research
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 47-5022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.