Heavy Equipment Operator

GFL Environmental Inc.; Fort McMurray; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

GFL Environmental Inc. is seeking a detail-oriented Equipment Operator to join our materials recovery team.

You will safely operate heavy equipment such as skid steers, front-end loaders, and material handlers to load bulk recyclables into open-top trailers, ensuring accurate weight distribution and smooth throughput. In this role you will perform pre- and post-shift inspections, monitor loads to stay within highway weight limits, and maintain a clean, safe work area.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in recycling, construction, or waste management.
• Valid heavy equipment operator certification preferred; high school diploma or GED required.

Responsibilities

• Operate loaders and material handlers to load bulk recyclables into open-top trailers.
• Monitor material levels and ensure even weight distribution across trailer axles.
• Perform pre-shift and post-shift equipment inspections and report issues to maintenance.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area, and ensure loading zones are clear of hazards.
• Assist with tarp securing and trailer positioning as needed.

Skills

Heavy equipment

Weight distribution

Safety awareness

Education

High school diploma

Job description

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).

We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact [e-mail]