Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 0 (0%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 0 (0%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 16 (100%)

• Move levers, depress foot pedals, and turn dials to operate power machinery, such as power shovels, stripping shovels, scraper loaders, or backhoes.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Set up or inspect equipment prior to operation.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Become familiar with digging plans, machine capabilities and limitations, and efficient and safe digging procedures in a given application.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Observe hand signals, grade stakes, or other markings when operating machines so that work can be performed to specifications.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate machinery to perform activities such as backfilling excavations, vibrating or breaking rock or concrete, or making winter roads.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Receive written or oral instructions regarding material movement or excavation.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Move materials over short distances, such as around a construction site, factory, or warehouse.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Create or maintain inclines or ramps.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Lubricate, adjust, or repair machinery and replace parts, such as gears, bearings, or bucket teeth.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Handle slides, mud, or pit cleanings or maintenance.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Direct workers engaged in placing blocks or outriggers to prevent capsizing of machines when lifting heavy loads.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Measure and verify levels of rock or gravel, bases, or other excavated material.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Direct ground workers engaged in activities such as moving stakes or markers, or changing positions of towers.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Adjust dig face angles for varying overburden depths and set lengths.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Drive machines to work sites.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Perform manual labor to prepare or finish sites, such as shoveling materials by hand.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about excavating and loading machine and dragline operators, surface mining and AI