Excavator operator

What does an excavator operator do? – Tasks and work environment

An excavator operator is responsible for maneuvering excavators during construction and civil engineering projects, such as road construction, building foundations, and utility installations. Tasks include digging, moving earth and materials, as well as performing precision work according to drawings and work descriptions. Excavator operators often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, sometimes under time pressure and in collaboration with other trades within construction and civil engineering. The profession requires good understanding of safety routines and machine maintenance to ensure both efficiency and safety on the site.

Salary development over time

The salary for excavator operators has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,700 SEK per month, which increased to 34 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 35 600 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of just over 2.6 % over three years, which is in line with the general wage development within the construction and civil engineering sector. Factors contributing to wage increases include continued high demand for skilled labor, increased requirements for certifications and technical knowledge, and a greater focus on safety and quality in projects. Wage development is also influenced by regional differences and labor market needs, where recruitment difficulties can lead to higher entry-level wages in certain areas.

Excavator operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 35 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, regional sector, high school education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage: 214 SEK/hour (average, based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 35 200 SEK, men 35 600 SEK (women 99 % of men's salaries)
• Regional differences: Highest wages are found in the regional sector, while private sector employees generally have slightly lower wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as an excavator operator, a high school education within the construction and civil engineering program with specialization in construction machinery operators is usually required. After completing the education, additional certifications and practical training are often necessary to meet industry safety and machinery knowledge requirements. Experience from similar professions or workplaces is advantageous and can facilitate employment.

• High school education: Construction and civil engineering program with machine specialization, approximately 3 years
• Vocational certificate: Certification for construction machinery operators is required (e.g., via BYN)
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning during education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for high school
• Further education: Possible through courses and in-house training

Common benefits and compensations

Excavator operators are often offered benefits such as per diems when working away from home, overtime pay, night shift allowances, and sometimes wellness contributions. Some companies may also include work clothing, tools, and further training as part of employment. Benefits may vary depending on employer and whether employment is in the public, regional, or private sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession as an excavator operator is characterized by high demand for labor, but also noticeable recruitment difficulties. Many leave the profession each year, leading to a continuous need for new operators. The work environment can be physically demanding and requires high concentration and safety awareness, especially when working near traffic or in confined spaces. Competition for the most attractive jobs can be fierce in some regions, while others have plenty of available positions. Technological developments in machinery mean that operators need to continuously update their skills to meet new requirements.

Tips for those wanting to become an excavator operator

To succeed as an excavator operator, it is good to combine technical interest with precision and a sense of responsibility. Being flexible and having good teamwork skills facilitates when tasks vary and work is done in teams. Good physical health is important, as the work is often outdoors and physically demanding. A continuous desire to develop machine skills and stay updated on new technologies provides a competitive advantage. Problem-solving skills and stress tolerance help when unexpected situations arise on site. Showing engagement during internships and networking within the industry can facilitate employment. Finally, being proactive and able to work independently is an advantage, as many tasks require personal responsibility.

Key facts about Excavator Operators

• Education level: High school education with certification
• Work environment: Outdoors, often in varying weather and on construction sites
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to Arbetsförmedlingen
• Number of available jobs: 379 within the profession of civil engineering machine operators
• Special skills: Machine operation, safety, and machine maintenance

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an excavator operator can take on more advanced projects, become a site supervisor, or further specialize as a machine operator, for example in GPS-guided machinery or large construction machines. According to Arbetsförmedlingen's forecast, job opportunities remain abundant, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties and high attrition rates provide good chances for new operators to find employment. Over time, opportunities may also open within machinery service, training new operators, or entrepreneurship within the construction industry.

Frequently asked questions about excavator operators

• What is the average salary for an excavator operator?
  - The average salary for an excavator operator is 35 600 SEK per month.
• What do gender differences look like in salaries?
  - Women earn 35 200 SEK, which is 99 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an excavator operator?
  - High school education with specialization in construction machinery and vocational certificate are required.
• How is the job market for excavator operators?
  - The job market is strong with 379 available positions and great opportunities for employment.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for excavator operators?
  - The highest salary is 37,400 SEK (female, regional sector), the lowest is 33,100 SEK (male, private sector).
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, the highest wages are found in the regional sector, while private sector employees generally have slightly lower wages.
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Attention to detail, responsibility, flexibility, and teamwork skills are important qualities for excavator operators.