Become a Heavy Equipment Operator (Excavator)
Help move, clear land and perform demolitions.
Heavy Equipment Excavator Operators excavate, move, lift, strip, stockpile and place earth, rock, gravel or other materials. They work in the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, airports and utilities, and the construction of gas and oil pipelines, tunnels, buildings and other structures. They also operate equipment in surface mining, quarrying, and land clearing activities. Excavators are also used to create slopes, to clear land at logging and surface mining sites and to perform demolitions.
Key Skills Needed
- Mechanical aptitude
- Hand-eye coordination
- Problem-solving skills
- Situational awareness
- Attention to detail
- Safety awareness
Typical Mid-Range Hourly Rate
25
Career Outlook
Moderate - The odds of finding work in this field are considered average.
Pathways Into the Trade
- Direct Entry
Start working with a certified journeyperson and begin your apprenticeship right away - no experience needed. Most apprentices spend about 80% of their time on the job and 20% in training. - Pre-Apprenticeship
Take a program at a college or training institution to build foundational skills before starting your apprenticeship. - Trade Experience
If you already have experience – whether in Canada or internationally – you may be able to challenge the trade qualifier exam and become certified.
Working Conditions
- Work on construction, mining, forestry and pipeline projects
- Operate equipment in all weather conditions
- Spend long periods working in an enclosed cab
- Work around heavy equipment, trucks and active construction zones
- Use GPS, satellite monitoring and machine control technologies
- Follow environmental, safety and operating procedures
*Profile data compiled by Labour, Skills and Immigration – AskLMI@novascotia.ca