Heavy hauler operator is an entry-level position at oil sands mining sites, but there is plenty of room for career growth.
June 2009
Driving a piece of heavy equipment the size of house is all in a day’s work for heavy hauler operators at local oil sands mining sites. These heavy hauler operators are just one of the many heavy equipment operators directly employed by the region’s major oil sands mining companies.
From graders, loaders, backhoes and excavators to the enormous heavy haulers and mining shovels, a variety of regular and specialized heavy equipment is used in day-to-day mine operations.
“The magnitude of the equipment and dynamics of mine operations is often commented on by new employees,” says Kim Brassard, recruitment manager for Shell Albian Sands.
It’s exciting to be a part of the giant-scale mining, agrees Justin Boyd, recruitment representative for Syncrude. “You get to work with the largest equipment in the world,” says Boyd.
In mining operations, most heavy equipment operators start out driving heavy haulers. From there, they can progress to other heavy equipment, such as graders and loaders, and finally to the senior position of shovel operator.
Job requirements
All mine companies require a minimum Grade 12 diploma or equivalent. Companies typically ask for at least six months to five years heavy equipment experience, preferably in an open pit mining environment. Depending on the company, candidates may also be considered if they have several years experience operating heavy equipment in an industrial environment, or driving trucks with trailers. To find out the specific job requirements of each company, it is best to check their websites directly:
Companies provide new employees with extensive mine orientation and safety training.
Other skills
Besides work experience, oil sands companies look for a variety of other soft skills. “It is critical that our heavy equipment operators have a positive attitude, be good communicators, value the importance of teamwork and always put safety first,” says Brassard.
Advancement
Mining companies provide on-the-job training to help operators work their way up to positions that require more skills. With experience, they can advance to supervisory roles, such as crew leader. There are also opportunities to learn a trade or go into areas like mine operations planning.
Work conditions
Mines operate 24/7 for 365 days a year. Operators work rotational day and night split shifts. They work outdoors in a dusty, noisy and fast-paced environment.
Pay and other benefits
Depending on experience and the position, oil sands companies in the region pay heavy equipment operators from $30 to $50 per hour. Group benefits, retention bonuses and stock options are some of the perks that may also be offered.
Mine companies don’t provide camp housing for heavy equipment operators, but they may help with moving and housing costs.
Keyano College
Keyano College (www.keyano.ca) offers a Mine Operations course that can lead to employment at the mine. See page 6 for full details.
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