Heavy Equipment Operator

Career Pathway Heavy Equipment Operator Also known as: Backhoe Operator; Bulldozer Operator; Excavator Operator; Grader Operator; Loader Operator; Dump Truck Operator; Dozer Operator; Tractor Operator Salary range: Average: $27.50/hour JOB DESCRIPTION Heavy Equipment Operators control machinery used in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, industrial sites, building and other structures. They are essential to the operation of heavy equipment in the construction, maintenance, and expansion of renewable energy projects. Range: $20.00 – $38.00/hour Source: Government of Canada Job Bank Work type: Full-time; shift work; rotational work Work environment: Heavy Equipment Operators have the opportunity to experience a variety of work and projects which keep the job interesting and challenging, while obtaining a profound sense of accomplishment. During a typical work day, they get to experience physical activity, hands-on skill development, problem solving and team work, GENERAL JOB TASKS Operate heavy equipment such as backhoes, bulldozers, loaders and graders to excavate, move, load and grade earth, rock, gravel and/or other materials, equipment and supplies during construction and related activities. Conduct pre-operational checks on equipment and clean, lubricate and refill equipment as needed. Prepare equipment for transportation. Follow safety protocols and guidelines while operating equipment to minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment. TRAINING To become a Journeyperson Heavy Equipment Operator, individuals must complete the certification examination to be granted a Certificate of Qualification (Red Seal Certification for Excavator, Dozer and Tractor-Loader-Backhoe and Provincial Certification for Grader, Front-End Loader, Tandem Dump Truck and Off Highway Dump Truck). Certificate of Qualification is not compulsory in Newfoundland and Labrador to work as a Heavy Equipment Operator, however registered apprentices and journeypersons often have better career options, job security and wages. To achieve Certificate of Qualification, individuals can explore one of the following pathways: Pre-Employment Program Individuals with limited or no recent work experience in the trade can register and complete a Pre-Employment Program (listed under Educational Options) and then Register as an Apprentice with the Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division (ATCD). Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills. Recognition of Prior Learning Individuals with acquired learning from work experience, life experiences and other formal training, which may be equivalent to certain components of apprenticeship training programs, can contact an Apprenticeship Program Officer to discuss Recognition of Prior Learning. Trade Qualifier Individuals who meet the jurisdictional requirements and have at least one and a half (1.5) times the work experience of an apprenticeship term for a designated trades can have their work skills and hours verified by a certified journeyperson and may be eligible to write the certification examination as a Trade Qualifier. EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS Institution: College of the North Atlantic Location: Bay St. George; Placentia; St. Anthony Program: Heavy Equipment Operator Duration: 22 weeks Delivery mode: On-campus delivery; full-time Estimated Cost (tuition, fees, supplies): Canadian Residents: $6,700.00 (May be subject to change) International Students: $10,700.00 (May be subject to change) Entrance requirements: Eligibility for admission requires one of the following: High School Graduation Adult Basic Education Trades Bridging Certificate Mature Student Requirements Learn more about Entrance Requirements here. Institution: Operating Engineers College Location: Holyrood Program: Heavy Equipment Operator Duration: 22 weeks Delivery mode: On-campus delivery; full-time Estimated cost (tuition, fees, supplies): $16,000.00 (May be subject to change) Entrance requirements: Eligibility for admission requires the following: High School Graduation, Adult Basic Education or Mature Student Requirements (CAAT Assessment) Driver’s Licence (Class 05) Minimum 1 year Medical & Consent Form ESSENTIAL SKILLS Technical skills and aptitude (mechanical) Digital technology Manual dexterity Hand-eye coordination Problem-solving skills Communication skills Working with others Continuous learning Occupational Health and Safety CAREER PROGRESSION With experience and additional training, Heavy Equipment Operators can progress into mentorship, supervisory and management positions, They may also start their own contracting business and/or move into teaching/instructor positions. Learn more about Entrance Requirements here. OTHER REQUIRED TRAINING/CERTIFICATIONS Site-Specific Safety Certifications WHMIS Standard First Aid Valid Class 03 License Air Brakes Endorsement (09) Class 8 Traction Engine License These may be covered in Educational Program or by employer. USEFUL RESOURCES: Apprenticeship & Trades Certification Division Government of Canada – Career Planning Red Seal Program BuildForce Canada Labour Market Information