Heavy Equipment Operator

Priestly Demolition; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Priestly Demolition in Canada is seeking a highly skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to safely run excavators, dozers, loaders and other heavy machinery on demolition and construction sites. You will support our project teams by performing precise earthmoving, material handling and site cleanup while maintaining productivity and safety.

Responsibilities include daily inspections, routine maintenance, reading site plans, and coordinating with ground crews.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 5+ years of heavy equipment experience.
• Demolition experience preferred.
• Experience with excavators, dozers and loaders.
• Read and interpret site plans.
• GPS/grade control exposure a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate excavators, dozers, loaders, and trucks to support demolition.
• Demolish structures safely and efficiently per project plans.
• Sort and process demolition debris on site.
• Perform daily pre-operational inspections.
• Maintain equipment and report defects.
• Communicate with ground crews and supervisors.

Job description

Position Description

Join the Award-Winning Team at Priestly Demolition

We don’t just tear things down; we clear the way for what’s next. At Priestly Demolition, we’re proud to lead the industry with award-winning projects, cutting-edge equipment and a team-first mindset. From major infrastructure removals to complex, high-risk takedowns, our work has earned us global recognition, including multiple World Demolition Awards and repeat spots on Canada’s Best Managed Companies List.

We take safety seriously. It’s at the core of everything we do. With an in-house safety team, engineering department, extensive training programs, and a culture of accountability, we make sure every member of our crew gets home safe.

We’re also proud to lead the charge in environmental stewardship, recycling materials on-site and using sustainable practices that protect the communities we serve. And when it comes to people, inclusivity isn’t just a value, it’s a promise. We believe great work comes from diverse voices, strong teamwork and a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Our core values are extremely important to us. Are they aligned with yours?

Safety – We believe in protecting generations. We recognize the impact of our actions and take responsibility for protecting our people, communities, and the environment.

Family – We believe we’re stronger together. We are family who builds communities on a firm foundation of trust and respect.

Integrity – We believe in doing what’s right. We build long-term partnerships through integrity, generosity, and the highest accountability to each other and our clients.

Innovation – We believe demolition drives progress. We create opportunities by challenging ourselves and intentionally pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Primary Purpose of Position:

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of excavators and other heavy equipment on demolition and construction sites. Duties include, but are not limited to, operating excavators for foundation excavation, bulk excavation, loading trucks for disposal, moving and sorting materials, completing daily equipment checks, and performing routine equipment maintenance. The Operator must work safely and efficiently while following all company, project, and health and safety requirements.

Job Duties:

• Operate heavy equipment including excavators, dozers, loaders, and rock trucks to support demolition and site operations.


• Perform demolition activities using excavators equipped with various attachments, including hydraulic breakers, shears, and grapples.


• Safely demolish, dismantle, and remove structures and building materials according to project requirements.


• Sort, load, move, and process demolition debris and materials on site.


• Conduct daily pre-operational inspections and report any equipment defects, damage, or maintenance requirements.


• Clean and lubricate equipment and refill equipment tanks as required.


• Work safely around other heavy equipment, workers, structures, utilities, and changing site conditions.


• Follow project plans, site-specific procedures, and direction from Supervisors and Foremen.


• Maintain safe working distances and communicate effectively with ground crews and other equipment operators.


• Assist with general site cleanup, material handling, and other duties as required to support demolition operations.


• Employ safe work practices at all times for themselves, crew members, and others working on or around the site.


• Maintain a clean and organized work area and ensure equipment is secured at the end of each shift.

The responsibilities outlined above describe the general nature of this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list. Additional duties may be assigned as required to support business needs.

Position Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.


• Minimum 5 years of experience operating heavy equipment, with demonstrated proficiency on excavators, dozers, and loaders.


• Demolition experience is strongly preferred, with a solid understanding of demolition processes, site conditions, and safe work practices.


• Proven experience operating excavators with attachments, including hydraulic breakers, shears, grapples, and pulverizers, is an asset.


• Strong knowledge of excavation, grading, material handling, and site preparation.


• Ability to read and interpret site plans, drawings, and grade specifications.


• Experience working with GPS machine control and grade control systems is an asset.


• Strong understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety procedures, and job-site protocols.


• Knowledge of routine equipment maintenance, inspections, and troubleshooting, with the ability to perform minor repairs and adjustments.


• Ability to safely operate multiple types of heavy equipment, including excavators, front-end loaders, dozers, skid steers, and other construction equipment.


• Ability to work effectively around ground crews, other equipment operators, and changing site conditions.


• Strong communication skills, reliability, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and productive work environment.


• Ability to work outdoors in a physically demanding environment and adapt to varying project and weather conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

PDI Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. We provide accommodation throughout the recruitment and employment process in accordance with applicable legislation. Applicants requiring accommodation may contact a member of the People Success team for support ([e-mail] ).

Role Transparency

This posting represents a current, approved vacancy that PDI Group of Companies is actively hiring for. This position does not use artificial intelligence (AI) as part of the candidate screening or selection process; all applications are reviewed by a member of our Talent Acquisition team.