Who am I?
Could you operate large machinery? Can you work as part of a team on a job site where many things are going on at once? Do you have good communication skills? Can you listen and follow instructions? Do you have sound judgement? Then, Heavy Equipment Operator may be the job for you!

What do I do?
Heavy Equipment Operators run machines like excavators, off-highway trucks, articulated trucks and loaders, graders, compactors, scrapers, crawler tractors, shovels, backhoes, and pavers. If you choose this job, you will be part of a team that builds and maintains roads. You will also work on commercial and residential site preparation, bridge building, and sewer and water projects. You may also lubricate, fuel, adjust, and assist in repairs to equipment.

As a junior Heavy Equipment Operator, you will start out on machinery that is easier to operate. This includes compactors or small rubber tire loaders. As you gain experience and show ambition, the company will train you on more complex equipment.

How much do I make?
On average, you earn $19,000 to $48,200 a year plus benefits. In addition to the basic hourly rate, employers provide statutory holiday and vacation pay. Employers may also provide other benefits such as group insurance for health, dental and vision care, retirement packages, and training benefits. In total, benefits can be worth 20% to 30% over and above the basic hourly pay rate.

The standard workweek is 40 hours. As with most jobs in construction, some overtime is possible.

How do I advance?
With experience and additional training, you may advance to more senior positions. These include safety officer or trainer, job foreman, superintendent, or other supervisory positions. Many operators go on to start and successfully run their own businesses.

Like most careers in the construction industry, your skills in this occupation are portable. If you want to relocate, you can take your skills with you.

How do I learn?
Heavy Equipment Operator is neither a designated trade nor a designated occupation. Currently, there is no recognized accreditation or standard of competency in Alberta.

Most Heavy Equipment Operators learn entirely on-the-job. Heavy construction companies prefer to train their own people.

How long will it take?
How long it takes you to become a competent Heavy Equipment Operator depends on how much you work and how quickly you learn.

Where do I learn?
Your employer will probably have an experienced Heavy Equipment Operator show you how to do the work.
Jump-start your career in construction
While you’re still in high school, check out your school’s Career and Technology Studies (CTS) courses. These hands-on courses can help you build the basic skills you need for work in the construction industry.

See your school counselor for more information on CTS courses.

Where can I find out more?
For more information on career planning, apprenticeship and occupational training, or educational programs, contact the Career Information Hotline. Ask for the nearest Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training office or Alberta Human Resources and Employment service center. Phone: 1-800-661-3753 toll-free in Alberta or (780) 422-4266 in Edmonton. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing: 1-800-232-7215 for message relay service or (780) 422-5283 for TDD service. For more information on training for the roadbuilding and heavy construction industry, visit the Alberta Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction website at www.arhca.ab.ca

You can also visit Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training’s web site at www.tradesecrets.org.