Heavy Equipment Operator (Wheel Loader, Grapple, Log Loader)

The Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating wheel loaders, grapple-equipped loaders, and log loaders in support of log yard, material handling, and chipping operations. This position plays a critical role in maintaining production flow, managing log and fibre inventories, feeding processing equipment, and ensuring safe, efficient yard operations.

Working in a dynamic forestry environment, the Heavy Equipment Operator is accountable for meeting production targets, maintaining equipment, identifying and reporting hazards, and contributing to a safe and productive workplace. The position requires strong situational awareness, equipment operating expertise, and the ability to work effectively in changing operational and environmental conditions.

Why Join Sutherland Heavy Civil?

• Meaningful work on civil construction, mining, and infrastructure projects

• Competitive pay, comprehensive rewards and benefits

• Quality equipment, resources, and support to help you perform at your best

• Opportunities to build a long-term career, not just a job

• A team-first culture built on safety, respect, and accountability

• Local roots and proud supporters of the communities where we live and work

Compensation & Schedule

$31.00-$35.00 per hour

Compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and overall alignment with the requirements of the role.

Schedule: Work 14 days on / 14 days off rotation with 12-hour shifts, as required.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate wheel loaders, grapple loaders, log loaders, and other assigned equipment in support of log yard and fibre processing operations.

• Load, unload, sort, stack, and transport logs, chips, hog fuel, and other wood fibre products while maintaining inventory accuracy and product segregation.

• Feed chippers and processing equipment to maintain production targets and ensure consistent material flow.

• Monitor chip quality and operational performance, identifying and reporting issues that may impact production or product specifications.

• Assist with startup, shutdown, housekeeping, and general operational support activities to maintain a productive work environment.

• Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, monitor equipment condition, and complete required maintenance and inspection documentation.

• Perform routine greasing, cleaning, and preventative maintenance while identifying and reporting equipment deficiencies or repair requirements.

• Follow all safety policies, procedures, hazard assessments, and regulatory requirements while maintaining awareness of personnel, equipment, and site hazards.

• Communicate effectively with supervisors, operators, and team members to coordinate activities and support operational objectives.

• Contribute to a positive team environment through accountability, collaboration, professionalism, and a commitment to safe and efficient operations.

Qualifications

• Experience operating wheel loaders, grapple loaders, log loaders, or similar heavy equipment in a forestry, industrial, or resource-sector environment.

• Ability to safely load, unload, sort, stack, and transport logs, chips, wood fibre, and related materials while supporting production and inventory requirements.

• Experience supporting log yard, chipping, biomass, sawmill, forestry, or wood fibre processing operations is considered an asset.

• Strong commitment to safety, including hazard awareness, equipment inspections, and compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.

• Ability to perform routine equipment inspections, preventative maintenance, and identify equipment deficiencies or repair requirements.

• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced outdoor operational environment.

Benefits & Total Rewards

• Extended health, dental and vision

• Life and travel insurance coverages

• Comprehensive wellness and paramedical support

• Employee assistance program

• Generous pension matching

• Referral bonus opportunities

About Sutherland Heavy Civil

Sutherland Heavy Civil is a broad-based forestry services provider with a strong focus on environmentally responsible and sustainable practices. For over 15 years, Sutherland Heavy Civil has delivered mobile large-scale chipping and grinding, forestry consulting, screening, road building and maintenance, and equipment rental services across British Columbia and Alberta.

About Sutherland Group

The Sutherland Group is a family of companies operating across transportation, construction, forestry, environmental, mining, marine, and industrial services. For 30 years, we have invested in our people, supported career growth, and delivered exceptional work for our customers and communities.

Join the Team

Ready to build your career with a team that lives its values every day? We seek people who are Curious & Adaptable, Trustworthy, Humbly Confident, Better Together, and ready to Make It Happen. We'd love to hear from you.

Different perspectives build better teams. The Sutherland Group of Companies is an equal employment opportunity employer. We are committed to hiring a diverse workforce and ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. We encourage applications from any protected basis such as persons with disabilities, women, LGBTQ2S+ persons, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America and any other basis under applicable law.
If you require any accommodation at any point during the recruiting process, please contact our Human Resources team at 778-754-4021.