Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining
Operate or tend machinery at surface mining site, equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets to excavate and load loose materials.
SOC: 47-5022.00
Common Job Titles
Dragline Oiler
Dragline Operator
Heavy Equipment Operator
Loader Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate excavators, draglines, and loading machinery equipped with scoops, shovels, or buckets at surface mining sites, independently managing material excavation and loading operations.
Proficient
Hands-onCoordinate machine controls to precisely position excavation equipment and load materials in dynamic surface mining environments, responding to terrain and load variations.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate equipment performance and material characteristics during excavation operations, determining appropriate adjustments to optimize productivity.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess site conditions, material loads, and operational safety hazards continuously throughout mining operations, following public safety and security standards.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate safety protocols with operational efficiency goals when coordinating with supervisors, equipment operators, and ground personnel at mining sites.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and field repairs on excavating machinery using hand tools and equipment maintenance protocols, minimizing operational downtime.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate hydraulic controls and mechanical systems to execute complex excavation patterns and loading sequences under time constraints.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze mechanical issues and equipment malfunctions during operations, troubleshooting problems to maintain continuous production.
Developing
KnowledgeEstimate material volumes, load capacities, and cycle times to plan and prioritize excavation and loading sequences efficiently.
Developing
KnowledgeApply mechanical and construction knowledge when selecting appropriate equipment attachments and operating techniques for varying material types.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
34,210
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $39,650. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,290. 50th percentile: U.S. $52,550. 75th percentile: U.S. $63,630. 90th percentile: U.S. $80,970. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$39,650
10% of workers earn the following or more
$80,970
Workers on average earn
$57,860
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Mechanical3.2/5
Building and Construction3.2/5
Public Safety and Security3.0/5
English Language2.6/5
Mathematics2.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
