Heavy Equipment Operator

• Use one or more types of heavy equipment:

  
  

  • Equipment used in open pit mines includes: graders, scrapers, track and wheel dozers and loaders, excavators, draglines, backhoes and shovels.
  • Equipment used in underground mines includes: locomotives, scoop trams, water trucks and remote-controlled equipment
• Use heavy equipment according to operating practices to excavate and move minerals and metals, earth, sand, gravel, rock, muck, coal and snow
• Safely drive and maneuver heavy equipment around the mine
• May select, fit and remove attachments
• Safely operate the controls of heavy equipment to minimize the risk of damage and injury
• Monitor gauges, dials and other indicators to make sure the heavy equipment is working properly; report discrepancies to dispatch
• Adjust controls to regulate pressure, control speed and flow of operation
• Perform a walk-around inspection before, during, and after every shift (includes set-up and inspection of equipment to ensure safe operation)
• May clean, maintain and secure equipment
• Troubleshoot in accordance with regulations and approved procedures; may perform minor repairs as required or report issues to dispatch
• Complete log books and daily reports on delays, production and safety issues
• Use two-way radio, visual, audio and light signals to communicate with other operators and ensure safety

Heavy Equipment Operators are paid on an hourly or annual basis. Depending on factors such as the location of the mine and the type of equipment operated, pay ranges from $17 - $58 per hour (CostMine, 2014). In addition, Heavy Equipment Operators often receive other benefits.

In general, people are drawn to a career in the mining industry for the rewarding work, as well as the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. The compensation is attractive as is the structured work schedule which allows for personal pursuits and professional development.

People who are attracted to working as Heavy Equipment Operators often specialize in more than one type of equipment. Many take advantage of opportunities to train on different types of heavy equipment or use their experience to train others.

Each year, MiHR researches the needs of the mining industry to hire Heavy Equipment Operators. Based on 2015’s forecast, we are providing the following assessment of the Job Prospects in mining as well as an evaluation applicability of these skills in other sectors. Together, these measures will help future job seekers to make informed decisions about potential careers, based on the opportunities in the mining industry.

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you will work inside temperature-controlled equipment cabs. Working on your own in a cab for the majority of your shift, you will communicate with colleagues mostly over two-way radios or by using signals. As a new operator, you will likely be trained by your employer and begin by operating a blade machine, such as a grader, dozer or wheeled excavator. You will also be required to lift heavy objects up to 23 kg (50 lbs) (based on 2014 job research).

Safety is the top priority in the mining industry and employers take every precaution to create a safe workplace. All mine employees observe strict health and safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (e.g. safety glasses, respirator, steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear protection, etc.). This equipment also reduces the risks that come with exposure to various environmental conditions, extreme temperatures and hazards.

Working hours vary considerably from mine to mine. You might have standard weekday working hours or shift work that involves evening and/or weekend work. Overtime is generally not required but you may have opportunities to work overtime in return for extra compensation.

Some mines are located near communities, which would enable you to live at home and commute to work. These mining communities tend to be close-knit, with strong friendships forming among co-workers and their families. Because these communities are often small towns, they provide wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and hiking.

Many mines are situated in remote areas and require most employees to live in a mining camp. In these mines, employees usually work on a “fly-in, fly-out” schedule. When on-site, all of your living expenses would be covered, including meals. Trained chefs and kitchen staff generally prepare meals and some camps provide accommodations for dietary restrictions and preferences.

Some camps are fairly basic, while others are well-equipped with gym, recreation, and internet facilities. Many camps provide a variety of training courses including language, yoga and First Aid. Fishing and hiking may or may not be permitted, depending on local regulations, licence requirements, and environmental considerations. Firearms are not permitted in mining camps.

Common traits that successful Heavy Equipment Operators share are:

• Ability to follow verbal directions and hand signals
• Ability to stay focused
• Fast reflexes
• Good hand-eye and eye-foot coordination
• Good interpersonal skills
• Good troubleshooting skills
• Good vision and depth perception
• Have a deep level of respect for, and understanding of, safety procedures and regulations
• Independent
• Organized and alert
• Works well with others

Many of these traits can be developed. If you are interested in following this career path, first determine your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals in order to develop the traits you need to succeed.

Many employers want to help job seekers build a successful and fulfilling career. Here are some ways that the mining industry may support you:

• Offer job placements, training and mentoring
• Welcome applicants with experience in other industries and countries
• Have incentives to attract women and Aboriginal peoples to mining education, training and employment
• Offer parental leave, housing incentives, or flexible schedules
• Provide professional development programs to support you and to develop career progression options

Note: this table reflects what is required at the time of hire. The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

• Physically fit and mobile
• Must be able to pass a medical test
• Must be able to pass a drug test
• Willingness to work in a diverse environment
• Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirements

• Technical training and a valid certificate for specific equipment

May be Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s licence and good driving record

Assets

• Previous experience operating heavy equipment (i.e.: .in trucking, logging or construction)***
• Willingness to relocate
• Other languages