Excavator Operator

Back to job search
Location
Gladstone, Queensland
Category
Mining Resources & Energy
Salary
Posted
19-Aug-2026
Work type
Contract
Contact
Carly Herreygers
Reference
190712
Excavator Operator 
QAL & Yarwun (Rio Tinto) | Gladstone, QLD
  • Opportunity with Rio Tinto
  • Ongoing Work
  • 5–6 Days per Week/ home every night
Chandler Macleod is currently seeking an experienced Excavator Operator to join Rio Tinto’s One Gladstone Self-Perform team, supporting major civil and earthworks projects across QAL and Yarwun.
This is an excellent opportunity for a highly experienced operator looking for ongoing project work in Gladstone, with consistent hours and exposure across two major industrial operations.
We’re specifically looking for someone who is highly competent operating with GPS and completing final trim to design. If you’re an experienced excavator operator who takes pride in accuracy, productivity and getting the job done right, we’d like to hear from you.
About the RoleWorking as part of the One Gladstone Self-Perform team, you’ll support civil and earthworks activities across both the QAL and Yarwun sites.
Your responsibilities will include:
  • Opportunity with Rio Tinto.
  • Operating excavators across civil and bulk earthworks projects.
  • Completing final trim works accurately to design specifications.
  • Using GPS machine control systems confidently and efficiently.
  • Reading and working to project designs, levels and specifications.
  • Supporting earthworks associated with annual project programs.
  • Completing pre-start inspections and maintaining equipment to site standards.
  • Working closely with Supervisors, Engineers and other operators to achieve daily production targets.
  • Maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality and productivity.
  • Working across both QAL and Yarwun operations as required.
About YouWe’re looking for a highly experienced Excavator Operator with strong GPS and final trim capability.
To be successful, you will have:
  • Extensive experience operating excavators in civil, mining or major earthworks environments.
  • Demonstrated final trim experience working accurately to design.
  • Strong experience using GPS machine control systems.
  • Ability to interpret designs, levels and site requirements.
  • Relevant Excavator ticket/competency.
  • Strong understanding of safe plant operation and site procedures.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a high-performing civil construction team.
  • Previous experience within mining, resources, dams, tailings or bulk earthworks will be highly regarded.
  • Current driver’s licence.
Why Join Rio Tinto?
  • Work with one of Australia’s leading industrial operators.
  • Competitive rate 
  • Consistent 5–6 day working week.
  • Monday to Thursday 6:00am–6:00pm.
  • Friday 6:00am–2:00pm.
  • Optional Saturday work depending on project requirements.
  • Opportunity to work across both QAL and Yarwun.
  • Be part of Rio Tinto’s growing One Gladstone Self-Perform delivery team.
Additional Information
  • ASAP start available.
  • Gladstone-based opportunity.
  • Work will be across QAL and Yarwun as required.
  • Site medical, Drug & Alcohol screening and inductions required prior to commencement.
  • Candidates must have unrestricted Australian working rights.
If you’re an experienced Excavator Operator who knows their way around GPS and can confidently deliver final trim to design, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now through Chandler Macleod for a confidential discussion.


At Chandler Macleod, we are committed to fostering a diverse workforce where everyone is welcome. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, neurodiverse, people living with a disability and the LGBTIQA+ community.

You can read more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion at https://www.chandlermacleod.com/diversity-and-inclusion.
Apply now

Share this job

Interested in this job?
Save Job
Create as alert

Similar Jobs

SCHEMA MARKUP ( This text will only show on the editor. )