Heavy Equipment Operator / Airfield Maintenance

Novara Human Capital Solutions Inc.; Stephenville; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Stephenville International Airport is seeking a Heavy Equipment Operator & Airfield Maintenance professional to keep runways and associated facilities safe and operational year-round. You will operate tractors, loaders, snow removal equipment, and support infrastructure maintenance as part of a dedicated team.

You will inspect airfield infrastructure, monitor safety, coordinate with the Operations Supervisor, and respond to emergencies while upholding regulatory standards and a strong safety

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Completed Heavy Equipment Operator program from a recognized post-secondary institution.
• 5+ years of experience preferred.
• Physical capability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Valid Newfoundland & Labrador driver’s license; Class 3 or higher with air brake endorsement; Class 8 license.
• Restricted Radio Operators Certificate (ROC-A).
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with staff and customers.
• Basic computer skills, including MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Operate airport heavy equipment (tractors, loaders, snow blowers, sweepers, trucks) for winter and summer maintenance.
• Monitor and maintain safety of runways, taxiways, aprons, and facilities.
• Inspect airfield infrastructure (runways, lighting, fences, signage).
• Identify hazards and remove debris and wildlife threats from movement areas.
• Perform routine maintenance on facilities and equipment.
• Coordinate with Airfield Technicians and Operations Supervisor around live flight operations.
• Ensure compliance with safety, security, and regulatory procedures.
• Complete inspections, reports, and documentation accurately and timely.
• Maintain professional appearance and interact with airport users and staff.
• Support emergency response and assist with Airport Emergency Response Plan.

Skills

5+ Years of experience

Strong communication skills

Problem solving

Independent and team player

Organized and proactive

Education

High school diploma or GED

Heavy Equipment Operator program

Tools

Class 3 license with air brake endorsement

ROC-A license

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator / Airfield Maintenance

Unionized

International Union of Operating Engineers Local 904

Reports To:

Business Development & Operations Manager

Employment Type:

Regular Full-Time Employee

Shift Schedule:

40 hours (5 days) as per Collective Agreement

JOB DESCRIPTION

About Stephenville International Airport

Stephenville International Airport (SIA) is an aviation hub located in Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador. SIA supports a mix of commercial, cargo, and charter operations and plays a strategic role in regional connectivity and economic development. At SIA, your work will directly and visibly impact a vital piece of regional infrastructure.

Your Role & Impact

As a Heavy Equipment Operator & Airfield Maintenance, you will be at the forefront of keeping the airport safe, operational, and ready for every arrival and departure. By operating specialized equipment, conducting critical airfield inspections, maintaining infrastructure, and supporting emergency response activities, you will play a vital role in ensuring the highest standards of safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

What You'll Do

• Operate all airport heavy equipment, including tractors and attachments, loaders, snow blowers, sweepers, and single- and tandem-axle trucks, for winter and summer maintenance activities, including grass cutting, vegetation control, and snow clearing, in support of airfield maintenance and operational requirements.
• Monitor and maintain the safety and operational condition of airport grounds, runways, taxiways, aprons, and associated facilities.
• Conduct regular inspections of airfield infrastructure, including runways, navigation and lighting systems, fences, signage, and other airport assets.
• Identify and remove foreign object debris (FOD), vegetation, wildlife hazards, and other obstacles from the movement areas as per established programs and/or procedures.
• Perform routine and minor maintenance to airport facilities, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Coordinate work with Airfield Technicians and the Operations Supervisor to safely work around live flight operations.
• Monitor airside activities to ensure compliance with airport safety, security, and operational procedures.
• Complete required inspections, reports, and documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Maintain a professional appearance and interact professionally with airport users, tenants, contractors, and the public.
• Work independently and collaboratively with airport staff to support safe and efficient airport operations.
• Participate in and/or conduct safety briefings, identify hazards, address concerns, and promote a strong safety culture.
• Respond to emergencies by assisting with the Airport Emergency Response Plan (AERP), supporting emergency personnel, and operating emergency or rescue equipment as required.
• Provide operational support during aircraft incidents, disabled aircraft recovery, or other emergency situations.
• Apply a safety-first mentality and ensure all work meets applicable safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• As required by the Employer, be available for standby.
• Maintain confidentiality of all SIA operations and activities.
• Assist with various tasks related to airport operations (as required).
• Other duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• Completed an acceptable Heavy Equipment Operator program from a recognized post-secondary institution.
• 5+ Years of experience preferred
• Physical capability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, including winter operations.
• Valid driver's license in Newfoundland & Labrador; Class 3 or higher preferred with an air brake (Z) endorsement, as well as a Class 8 license.
• Restricted Radio Operators Certificate (ROC-A).
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) to address SIA staff and customers and to interpret instructions and procedural manuals.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to identify problems and solve problems effectively and efficiently.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a safety-sensitive environment.
• Ability to work in an organized, proactive manner, ensuring inventories, records, and workspace are ready to address work requirements.

What Stephenville International Airport Offers

• As this position is part of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 904, the successful incumbent will receive a compensation package aligned with the current collective agreement, including, but not limited to, vacation entitlement, sick leave, and public holidays.

SIA is committed to building an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities we serve.