Could You Be Your Own Boss? The Owner-Operator Opportunity is Bigger Than You Think

Are you tired of working for someone else? Dream of running your own business but worried about the complexities of going it alone? The owner-operator model in earthmoving might be the perfect solution you’ve been looking for.

The Growing Demand for Owner-Operators

The demand for skilled owner-operators in the earthmoving industry is absolutely massive. Take Bebrok Excavations, for example – they work with over 100 subcontractors, and an impressive 70% of them are owner-operators who own their own machines.

Why do companies love working with owner-operators? It’s simple. When you own your equipment, you take better care of it. You’re more invested in doing quality work. You’re excited to get to the job site each day because you’re building something for yourself.

Best of Both Worlds: Independence with Support

Here’s where the owner-operator model gets really attractive. You get to run your own business and own your equipment, but you don’t have to handle all the headaches that usually come with being a business owner.

Companies like Bebrok take care of:
• All the workplace health and safety requirements
• Chasing payments and dealing with debtors
• Finding and scheduling jobs
• Administrative paperwork
• 24/7 support through dedicated apps

Your job? Simply say yes to the work and do what you do best – operate machines.

Michael from Bebrok puts it perfectly: “I’ve known a lot of guys over the years growing up in the earthmoving industry. They’re fantastic at what they do, which is operating, but not so great on the administration and the business side of things. That’s where we come in.”

Which Machines Are in High Demand?

The opportunities vary depending on what type of work interests you:

Residential Construction:
• 1.5 to 5-tonne excavators
• Skid steers (Bobcats)
• Combo units

Infrastructure and Commercial Projects:
• 9 to 30-tonne excavators
• Larger earthmoving equipment

The infrastructure sector is particularly strong, with companies securing panel positions with major councils including Sunshine Coast Regional Council, Noosa Council, and Gympie Council.

Financial and Emotional Support

Getting started as an owner-operator doesn’t mean you’re on your own. Many companies actively support operators in making the transition, offering both financial backing and emotional support throughout the journey.

As Michael explains: “Obviously, we would love for guys to get into their own gear, that’s the Aussie dream is to own their own business. So if we can support them in that way and nurture them along so they can buy their own gear and get out there and come and work for us as a subcontractor, we’re happy to do that.”

Getting Started: The Training You Need

Before you can become a successful owner-operator, you need the right qualifications and skills. At Diggerman Training, we provide nationally recognised training across all the major earthmoving equipment categories.

Our experienced trainers – each with over 20 years in the industry – understand what it takes to succeed as an owner-operator. 

Ready to take the first step towards owning your own earthmoving business?

The owner-operator opportunity is real, the demand is there, and the support systems exist to help you succeed. All you need is the right training and qualifications to get started.

Enquire Now about our earthmoving courses and discover how Diggerman Training can help you launch your career as an owner-operator. Your business dreams might be closer than you think.

Diggerman Training is a registered training organisation based in Coolum on the Sunshine Coast, servicing Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Toowoomba, Hervey Bay, Gympie, Kingaroy, and Dalby.