Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations

Overview

The Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations is your entry point into one of the fastest-growing industries in our region. With major infrastructure and development projects planned in the coming years, there's never been a better time to prepare for a rewarding and in-demand career in civil construction.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to formalise your existing skills, this course provides a strong foundation in plant operations, workplace safety, and essential trade knowledge. You'll receive hands-on, practical training and multiple plant operation licences, positioning you to become a confident, work-ready plant operator.

Course Structure Stage A: Core Skills for Civil Construction Plant Operations (Mandatory) Stage A forms the foundation of your training. You'll learn how to safely operate key machinery, interpret site plans, and work effectively on active construction sites. This stage includes:

• Operation of major plant equipment such as excavators, skid steers, and front-end loaders
• Practical training in safe work practices, excavation, and basic levelling
• Confidence to communicate clearly on-site and follow instructions
• Real-world problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Hands-on experience to build your confidence and work-readiness
• Upon completing Stage A, you'll be job-ready with multiple plant operation licences and a solid understanding of site operations.

Stage B: Career Advancement in Civil Construction (Optional) Stage B is an optional extension for those looking to take the next step in their civil construction career. This stage is focused on career progression and upskilling, and is ideal for graduates of Stage A or experienced workers who want to expand their capabilities or move into more advanced roles. More details to come – keep an eye out for updates.

Duration

Stage A: 10 Weeks

Requirements

You are required to wear enclosed safety boots, long sleeves and pants. Please also note there are NO canteen facilities available at our Shepparton or Logic Campus'. There are vending machines with limited options available at Logic and take away options located within a 5 minutes' drive of the campus, otherwise bring your own food and drink when completing a course at either Campus.

Assessment

The assessments will enable students to demonstrate the underpinning knowledge, skills and attributes required to meet the course outcomes. These will involve the assessment of your practical and theoretical knowledge through written assignments and practical project work.

Skills Developed

How to operate a small and large plant and equipment including excavators, skid steer, rollers, front end loaders and haul trucks How to handle resources and infrastructure materials and safely dispose of non-toxic materials To identify, locate and protect underground services Confidence to communicate with people at all levels on a construction site Analytical skills to read and interpret plans and specifications quickly Problem solving skills to meet the challenges of civil construction work Work readiness as a trade qualified plant operator Hands on experience working in simulated environments Practical skills in operating hand and power tools, and heavy machinery Practical experience in basic levelling and excavation Learning how to load and unload plant

Certification

By successfully completing this course you will receive an AQF Qualification.

Compulsory Units

Fees

Fees Additional Information

The units you will undertake in your studies vary depending upon your line of work and/or personal choice. This means prices for tuition fees can only be given as an approximation.

The student tuition fees published are indicative only and can be subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.

Funding made available to eligible individuals by State and Commonwealth Governments. If funding is utilised, this may affect future opportunities to access additional funding in the future. For more information see 'Fee information and eligibility' under the Enrol Now tab on the Wodonga TAFE website.

Careers

Job roles include working in domestic and industrial subdivisions, railways, major infrastructure projects (e.g. inland rail), council roadworks/maintenance, recycling and waste management, electrical infrastructure, forestry and quarries, which will allow you to apply for positions in local companies such as Jarvis and Delahey, Cleaves earthmoving, Mawsons Constructions, Scaffidi Contractors, Girdwood Contracting, NL Drainage and many more.

How To Apply

Applying for a course at Wodonga TAFE is a simple 4-5 step process. You can learn more here: Understanding the application process