Heavy Equipment Operator

We are seeking a detail-oriented Equipment Operator to join our materials recovery team. In this role, you will safely operate heavy machinery (such as skid steers, front-end loaders, or material handlers) to load bulk recyclable materials into open-top trailers for transport. You will play a critical role in maintaining facility throughput, ensuring accurate weight distribution, and adhering to strict environmental and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Trailer Loading & Material Transfer: Operate loaders and material handlers to efficiently scoop, sort, and transfer bulk recyclables (paper, cardboard, plastics, metals) into open-top trailers.
• Payload & Distribution Management: Monitor material levels to ensure loads are distributed evenly across trailer axles, avoiding top-heavy packing and staying within legal highway weight limits.
• Quality Control: Visually inspect incoming and loaded recyclables to identify visible contaminants or non-recyclable debris before shipping.
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform mandatory pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections. Clear debris from tracks/tires, check fluid levels, and report mechanical issues to maintenance personnel immediately.
• Site Safety & Cleanliness: Tarp or secure trailer tops as required, assist drivers with proper positioning, and keep loading zones, ramps, and staging areas clear of spillages and hazards.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 1-2 years of experience operating heavy equipment (skid steer, wheel loader, excavator, or material handler), preferably in a waste management, recycling, scrap yard, or construction environment.
• Certifications: Valid heavy equipment operator certification preferred; high school diploma or GED required.
• Skills: Strong spatial awareness, excellent hand-eye coordination, and a firm grasp of weight distribution mechanics.
• Physical Capabilities: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, climb equipment ladders, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions for extended periods.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Fast-paced industrial recycling facility exposed to ambient indoor/outdoor temperatures, noise, and dust.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required at all times (steel-toe boots, high-visibility vest, safety glasses, hard hat, and dust mask/respirator as needed).

Job ID: R39083

Job Profile: Heavy Equipment Operator - U

Job Country: Canada