About the role

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy machinery to support road maintenance, infrastructure projects, and essential community services. The role plays a key part in keeping our roads, worksites, and facilities safe and accessible for everyone in the community.

Key details

  • Employer: Department of Public Works, Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach
  • Location: Kawawachikamach and Region
  • Duration: Seasonal, full time
  • Schedule: 40 hours per week, with possible overtime
  • Salary: To be determined based on the Department of Public Works Salary Scale

What we are looking for

Education and certification

  • Valid Heavy Equipment Operator certification
  • Valid CSST (ASP) Health and Safety competency card
  • Valid Class 5 driver’s license

Experience

  • At least one year operating a variety of heavy equipment (loaders, graders, excavators, bulldozers) in construction, road maintenance, or municipal settings
  • Demonstrated ability to follow operational and safety procedures in live work environments
  • Experience working outdoors in challenging weather and terrain
  • Familiarity with pre-operational inspections, equipment logs, and reporting maintenance issues

Languages

  • Proficient in English and Naskapi
  • Knowledge of French is an asset

Knowledge and abilities

  • Proficient in operating equipment and following safety protocols
  • Familiar with scheduling systems and processes
  • Understands equipment cleaning standards
  • Highly responsible and self-motivated
  • Able to work independently or as part of a team

What you would do

  • Operate heavy equipment safely and efficiently in line with all applicable legislation, policies, and procedures
  • Conduct daily safety inspections and routine maintenance, and report any repair needs to the Operations Supervisor and Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Clean and securely store equipment as required
  • Always practice and promote workplace safety
  • Maintain accurate inventory records
  • Perform seasonal road maintenance (pre-winter, winter, spring, and summer) to keep our community roadways safe
  • Maintain access to homes, water sources, waste sites, and easements
  • Operate equipment for snow removal, grading, and drainage
  • Support Capital Projects as directed by the Capital and Civil Works Coordinator or Operations Manager
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

The role reports to the Operations Manager and Supervisor.

How to apply

All applications, including resumes, must be submitted to the Human Resources Department or directly to the Human Resources Officer by no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

The successful candidate will be selected by the Hiring Committee in collaboration with the Director-General and the Director of Public Works. The final appointment will be made by the Human Resources Department.

For submissions or questions, please contact:

Francis McKenzie
Human Resources Officer
francis.mckenzie@naskapi.ca