About the job:
The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for operate and maintain, and repair a variety of light and heavy construction equipment and tools in a safe and appropriate manner as assigned. This dual-role position involves safely operating machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and graders, while also performing routine maintenance and mechanical repairs to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.
The work is of a skilled nature that requires experience and precision to operate equipment, including heavy duty trucks, in a safe and efficient manner. The incumbent is responsible for cleaning, maintaining, and securing all equipment as directed by legislation, policies and procedures.
The Heavy Equipment Operator/Mechanic interacts with residents and the public in a courteous and respectful manner. This includes receiving feedback about schedules and levels and quality of service.
DUTIES:
Operating: (30%)
- Operate heavy equipment in a safe and effective manner at all times according to all relevant legislation, policies and procedures.
- Perform a variety of skilled construction and maintenance tasks.
- Maintain road and transportation systems to ensure safe roadways within the community.
- Operate various heavy equipment to excavate, move and grade earth.
- Read grade plans and use grade stakes in measuring the amount of earth to be move
- Read and interprets maps, sketches, drawings, specifications and technical manuals
- Interact with construction general laborers and crew members who are facilitating alignment, movement, and adjustment of the equipment to complete conformation of grade specifications for the construction project.
- Turn valves to control air and water output of compressors and pumps.
- Adjust control wheels, handles, and depresses pedals to drive machinery and control attachments, such as blades, buckets, scrapers and swing booms.
Maintenance: (70%)
- Perform daily safety and maintenance checks including daily lubrication
- Clean heavy equipment as scheduled, including removing personal belongings and trash from cab and wiping up spills.
- Inspect, troubleshoot, and diagnose mechanical issues on-site or in the workshop.
- Perform preventive maintenance, fluid checks, filter replacements, and lubrication.
- Repair or replace parts such as hydraulic systems, brakes, engines, and electrical systems.
- Maintain service logs and repair records accurately.
- Coordinate with supervisors and vendors for major repairs and parts ordering.
- Inspect equipment/machinery for safe day-to-day operation and for general maintenance needs. Identify and report any mechanical problems to Supervisor or designate.
- Participate in routine maintenance and preventative maintenance tasks.
- Perform accurate and thorough daily circle check reports for all equipment operated.
- Ensure heavy equipment is safely and securely stored.
- Participate in FMFN’s safety program by attending safety meetings and reporting all near misses and incidents to management in a timely fashion.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
- Five years (5) years of heavy equipment operation and maintenance experience is required, with at least two (2) years of combined experience operating excavators, backhoes, and dozers.
- Previous heavy equipment operation experience in the construction industry would be considered an asset.
- Some experience working in an indigenous organization, preferred.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
- High School Diploma or GED equivalent is required
- Licensed and experienced Equipment Operator
- Heavy Equipment Technician Journeyman Certificate (Red Seal)
- Valid Class 5 Driver License
SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND KEY COMPETENCIES:
- Physically able to perform duties of job including vision and coordination.
- Technical knowledge and skills.
- Demonstrated organizational and time management skills.
- Proven ability to work in a team environment.
- Ability to work independently in the absence of supervision.
- Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
- Knowledge or ability to learn soil composting techniques.
- Ability to prepare written reports and forms.
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing or via radio.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships .
- Awareness and sensitivity to realities of First Nation people and communities an asset.
- Ability to speak either Dene or Cree is an asset.
WHY APPLY?
Fort McKay is committed to the success of its employees and in addition to a competitive compensation structure, we also offer the following:
- An employer matched Pension Plan
- Comprehensive Health benefits package with Medical, Dental and Vision coverage
- On-site Fitness Centre because a healthy work-life balance is important to us!
- The opportunity to work with a community that is committed to protecting its traditional lands
ABOUT FORT MCKAY
The Fort McKay First Nation (FMFN) is composed of over 800 band members, including those of Cree and Dene heritage, with approximately 400 members residing in the hamlet of Fort McKay — a community located approximately 65 km north of Fort McMurray. Fort McKay offers the best of both worlds: remote northern life for the nature lover and proximity to a large city of about 70,000 people with all the amenities you need.
HOW TO APPLY:
ONLINE: Job Board - Fort McKay First Nation
Please indicate Competition #016-2025
Closing Date: August 6, 2025
Check us out on social media -> Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter & Instagram or www.fortmckay.com
Qualified candidates are invited to apply with a comprehensive resume detailing qualifications and experience as it relates to the position of interest. *Preference will be given to qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry in any hiring decision, please declare your Indigenous status in your application.
