Excavator Operator

MacKay Contracting; Cranbrook; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

MacKay Contracting Ltd. is a progressive heavy civil construction and mining services company based in Western Canada.

We are seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator – Excavator to ensure safe, precise operation and contribute to project progress at our Cranbrook, BC headquarters. You will operate excavators and other heavy equipment, perform pre-shift inspections, follow safety procedures, and collaborate with a crew to meet project goals on a Monday–Friday schedule with potential overtime.

Qualifications

• Experience operating excavators in civil construction or equivalent work.
• Knowledge of construction layout and staking.
• Knowledge of 3D machine control systems (an asset).
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driver’s abstract.
• Ability to operate equipment in a safe, efficient, and responsible manner.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and occasional weekends.

Responsibilities

• Safely and effectively operate excavators and other heavy equipment such as loaders, dozers, graders, and haul trucks.
• Perform work in compliance with safety practices and governing legislation.
• Operate in crowded, fast-paced environments with awareness of hazards.
• Interpret verbal directions and hand signals from ground crews and fellow operators.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections, complete logbooks, perform minor servicing, and maintain housekeeping of equipment.
• Identify and address site hazards through proactive hazard assessments.

Skills

Excavator operation

Safety consciousness

Teamwork

Communication skills

Follow instructions

Flexible hours

Tools

3D machine control systems

Job description

MacKay Contracting Ltd. is a progressive and well-established Heavy Civil Construction and Mining Services company. For over 40 years, we’ve been tackling the projects others avoid — from highways and overpasses to utilities, mine infrastructure, and earthworks. With operations across Western Canada, we’re proud to build the foundations communities grow on.

We’re looking for a Heavy Equipment Operator – Excavator to join our team. This is a key role in ensuring the safe, accurate, and efficient use of equipment that keeps our projects moving forward.

How You’ll Contribute

As a Heavy Equipment Operator, you’ll bring precision and safety to every task. You’ll work as part of a team that operates multiple types of heavy machinery, supports jobsite productivity, and ensures work is carried out to the highest standard. Your skills behind the controls will directly contribute to project success and safety on site.

What You’ll Get to Do

• Safely and effectively operate excavators and other heavy equipment such as loaders, dozers, graders, and haul trucks
• Perform work in compliance with MacKay safety practices, as well as provincial and federal safety legislation
• Operate in crowded, fast-paced environments with strong awareness of potential hazards
• Interpret verbal directions and hand signals from ground crews and fellow operators
• Conduct pre-operational inspections, complete logbooks, perform minor servicing, and ensure good housekeeping of equipment
• Clean tracks and equipment at the end of each shift
• Complete and submit daily Field Level Hazard Assessments (FLHAs) and timecards
• Identify and address site hazards through proactive hazard assessments
• Support team operations with flexibility, reliability, and a strong safety mindset
• Perform other duties as assigned

Who You Are

You’re an experienced operator who values precision, teamwork, and safety. You know how to work independently when needed but also thrive as part of a crew working toward a common goal.

You have:

• Experience operating excavators in civil construction or equivalent work
• Knowledge of construction layout and staking
• Knowledge of 3D machine control systems (an asset)
• A valid driver’s license with a clean driver’s abstract
• The ability to operate equipment in a safe, efficient, and responsible manner
• Strong communication and listening skills
• The ability to follow instructions and adapt quickly to changing site conditions
• Willingness to work flexible hours and occasional weekends

What’s In It for You

This role is based out of our Cranbrook, BC headquarters with regularly scheduled shifts of Monday to Friday, starting at 7:00 a.m. Shifts typically range from 8–12 hours with overtime after 8 hours. While weekend work is occasional, it is not a regular requirement.

At MacKay, you’ll find:

• Competitive compensation and overtime opportunities
• A strong safety culture and the tools to succeed
• Training, development, and advancement opportunities
• A team environment where your skills are recognized and valued

At MacKay, we believe great people build great projects. If you’re ready to operate with precision, safety, and pride, we want to hear from you.

DRIVEN TO DELIVER