Excavators have become one of the core components in the construction sector and civil works industry. Therefore, it is crucial to learn how to operate an excavator if you are thinking of building your future in the construction sector.
Whether you are just aiming to become an expert or certified in operating an excavator or trying to gain practical skills, it’s important to choose the right training path.
Two common methods are excavator lessons and on-site training, and while they may sound similar, they offer very different learning experiences.
What Do Both Methods Aim to Teach?
At their core, both approaches aim to build competency in:
- Operating an excavator safely
- Understanding controls and movement
- Performing pre-start checks
- Managing real-time hazards
- Following worksite safety procedures
But what separates them is how these lessons are taught.
Formal Excavator Lessons: Structured & Certified
Where does it happen?
At registered training organisations like Construction Training Group
How it works:
- Taught by qualified instructors
- Delivered through classroom theory and hands-on practice
- Focuses on both beginner and experienced learners
- Follows a nationally recognised course structure
Benefits:
- You gain a valid excavator ticket or license
- You learn in a safe, controlled environment
- Each lesson builds skills in a logical order
- Includes an assessment to prove competence
These lessons offer more than just machine handling. They teach you why each procedure matters and make you skillful enough to join any construction site across Australia.
On-Site Training: Practical & Job-Specific
Where it happens: Basically, on-site training is done directly on the job site under the guidance of an excavator expert.
How it works:
- Informal, usually taught by experienced operators
- Focuses only on tasks relevant to the current job
- No official structure or curriculum
- Often no certification at the end
Benefits:
- Fast learning in real-time situations
- Training is tailored to your current role
- You get to use the exact machine for your job
Key Differences at a Glance
Training Environment:
Excavator Lessons: The lessons related to excavator operation would be given in a controlled environment and settings by using advanced training equipment and facilities.
On-Site Training: Happens directly on the job site during real work.
Instructor & Method:
Excavator Lessons: The excavator lessons would be provided by a certified trainer or expert. The expert will follow a formal and pre-set curriculum.
On-Site Training: Guided by experienced workers without a set structure.
Certification:
Excavator Lessons: The on-site training method will provide you with a nationally recognized certificate or ticket upon completion of the curriculum.
On-Site Training: Usually does not offer any formal certificates.
Focus & Scope:
Excavator Lessons: The curriculum provides an in-depth knowledge of excavators and their functioning. It also covers safety measures, other legal aspects, and compliance.
On-Site Training: It only focuses on tasks that are solely specific to the job on the site.
Ideal For:
Excavator Lessons: Beginners, career builders, or those looking to get certified.
On-Site Training: Workers needing quick, practical instruction for immediate tasks.
Career Impact:
Excavator Lessons: Enhances job opportunities and flexibility across worksites.
On-Site Training: May limit opportunities due to lack of formal proof of skills.
Why Formal Training Has the Edge
Some people believe experience is all you need. While real-world practice is valuable, relying only on on-site instruction limits your career. That’s where excavator lessons really prove their worth. They combine professional teaching, guided machine use, and thorough assessment, resulting in a nationally recognised ticket.
This formal training also makes it easier to transition between jobs, as your skills are documented and verified.
Which One Should You Choose?
Ask yourself the following:
Are you new to construction? → Go for structured lessons.
Do you want a recognised ticket? → Only formal lessons offer that.
Do you just need quick site-specific skills? → On-site training may be enough for now.
Do you plan to change worksites or apply for higher-paying jobs? → Formal certification is essential.
Final Word
Both training methods have value and ideally, they work together. Formal excavator lessons lay the foundation.
On the first hand where on-site training can provide you with the benefits of sharpening your hand skills, on the second hand if you’re thinking long-term and aiming for a serious career in construction, structured lessons are the way forward.
They give you more than a skill, they give you professional recognition and open up wider opportunities across the industry.
