Position Summary:

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining a variety of heavy machinery to perform tasks such as excavation, grading, backfilling, and material transport. This role is critical in supporting construction, roadwork, mining, and landscaping projects while ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with project specifications and regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Equipment Operation

• Operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, backhoes, and graders to excavate, move, and grade earth, rock, gravel, and other materials.

• Use specialized equipment for tasks such as paving, pile driving, dredging, and compacting during construction and roadwork.

• Operate heavy equipment to clear brush and stumps, build roads, or prepare land for logging or mining activities.

• Perform tasks such as final grading, utility trenching, snow removal, and cargo loading or unloading.

• Maintenance and Inspection

• Conduct pre-operational checks on machinery, including inspecting, cleaning, lubricating, and refilling equipment.

• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot basic mechanical issues to ensure optimal performance.

• Maintain accurate logs of maintenance activities and report issues requiring advanced repairs.

• Project Coordination

• Read and interpret grade sheets, blueprints, and project specifications to execute tasks accurately.

• Collaborate with team members to meet project timelines and ensure smooth operations.

• Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work environment.

• Safety and Compliance

• Adhere to all safety regulations and guidelines while operating machinery.

• Erect and dismantle temporary structures, such as scaffolding or platforms, when necessary.

• Ensure compliance with company policies, environmental standards, and local regulations.

Skills and Qualifications

• Experience

• Proven experience in operating heavy equipment, with a preference for 2–5 years of experience.

• Familiarity with residential, commercial, or industrial excavation and construction projects.

• Technical Expertise

• Proficient in operating a variety of heavy machinery, including excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and graders.

• Basic mechanical knowledge to perform routine maintenance and identify equipment issues.

• Ability to read grade sheets, blueprints, and other technical documents.

• Physical and Interpersonal Skills

• Strong hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness for effective operation of machinery.

• Physical stamina and ability to work in varying outdoor conditions, including noise, dust, and weather.

• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate in a team-oriented environment.

• Certification

• Completion of a one- to two-year apprenticeship program or equivalent on-the-job training is preferred.

• Trade certification for Heavy Equipment Operators is an asset (compulsory in some provinces).

• Red Seal endorsement is an asset.

• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites as required.

• Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Experience with specialized equipment such as mobile cranes or compaction rollers.

• Knowledge of workplace safety standards and WHMIS training.

Considerations for Questions Related to This Role:

- Minimum of 2,3 or 5 years or more of experience in the residential construction industry?

- Are you willing to work 40+ hours per week?

- Driver’s license and tools ?? Do we need to ask this in preferred qualifications?