Posted 7 months ago
Heavy Equipment Operator (Tractor-Loader-Backhoe)
@ Traction
Toronto, Ontario
Overview
Traction is hiring a Heavy Equipment Operator for tractor-loader-backhoe work, combining loader stockpiling and site cleanup with precision trenching and utility work. The role suits a Journeyperson or senior apprentice finishing Red Seal Endorsement requirements.
Responsibilities:
- Operate backhoe and loader for excavation, loading and site cleanup
- Dig trenches to engineered specifications and maintain trench stability
- Lift and place pipes, manholes and trench boxes using rigging
- Perform daily pre-trip inspections and monitor hydraulic systems
- Work safely around buried utilities with ground crews
Requirements summary:
- Journeyperson or senior apprentice working toward Red Seal Endorsement
- Extensive experience with backhoe models such as Cat 420 or Case 580
- Valid Ground Disturbance Level 2, Trenching Safety and WHMIS certifications
- Valid Class 5 licence; Class 1 or 3 with air brake endorsement preferred
Tools & skills
Source and dates
Source type not verified · gohire
- Employer posting date
- 2026-04-09
- First seen by our source
- 2026-10-12
- Source record updated
- 2026-10-12
These dates describe the source record, not a live verification that the employer is still hiring. Check the original posting.
Job details
| Seniority | Mid level |
| Department | Construction trades |
| Hours per week | 40 (estimated) |
| Travel | air: none |
| Work setting | Construction site, Vehicle |
| Position | Sitting and standing |
| Physical demands | physical high · computer none |
| Licences & certifications | Red Seal Endorsement, Ground Disturbance Level 2, Trenching Safety, WHMIS, Class 5 |
| Driver’s licence | required |
Summary and details written by AI from the posting; the employer’s posting is the authority.
Traction
Saved company profile
Historical company information from a saved The Jobs API profile (LinkedIn/Crunchbase fields). It is not live-verified; figures may have changed. Missing values remain unknown.
Traction is the largest network of heavy vehicle replacement parts and accessories stores in Canada.
Full company description
Traction is Canada's largest network of stores that sell parts, accessories, tools, and equipment for trucks and trailers. It's also the only network that's present from coast to coast with more than 120 stores. The Traction network, which is part of UAP’s Heavy Vehicle Parts Division (HVPD), offers more than 500,000 products from over 1,000 suppliers dedicated to trucks and trailers. In every Traction store, you can count on the expertise and service of heavy vehicles specialists. The Traction network serves single truck operators as well as businesses with fleets of several thousand trucks and trailers. Traction services all sectors, including freight transportation, public services, construction, mining, forestry, passenger transportation, to name a few.
- LinkedIn followers
- 1,924
- People associated on LinkedIn
- 84
- Other recorded names
- Traction
- Specialties
- heavy vehicule
- vehicule parts
- stores
- and Retail
- Profile identifies a recruitment agency
- No
Traction is Canada's largest network of stores that sell parts, accessories, tools, and equipment for trucks and trailers. It's also the only network that's present from coast to coast with more than 120 stores. The Traction network, which is part of UAP’s Heavy Vehicle Parts Division (HVPD), offers more than 500,000 products from over 1,000 suppliers dedicated to trucks and trailers. In every Traction store, you…
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry | Truck Transportation |
| Company size | 1,001-5,000 employees |
| Organization type | Public Company |
| Year founded | 2000 |
| Specialties | heavy vehiculevehicule partsstoresand Retail |
| Open jobs on Jobsy | 10 |
| View page |
We are seeking a versatile and highly skilled Heavy Equipment Operator specialized in Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) operations. This role is designed for a professional who holds or is looking to finish their requirements to achieve their Red Seal Endorsement (RSE).
The backhoe is often considered the "Swiss Army Knife" of the construction site, requiring an operator with exceptional spatial awareness and multi-functional technical ability. Whether you are a certified Journeyperson or a senior operator nearing the completion of your hours, you will be expected to work to the Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS), executing both high-production loading and precision excavation tasks.
Core Responsibilities
In accordance with the national standards for the Heavy Equipment Operator trade, your primary duties include:
Dual-End Operation: Master the transition between loader and backhoe functions. Execute efficient front-end loading, stockpiling, and site cleanup while maintaining the ability to pivot for precision trenching and utility work.
Equipment Maintenance: Perform rigorous daily pre-trip inspections. Monitor hydraulic pressures, stabilizers, and wear on both the front bucket and rear boom/bucket assemblies.
Precision Excavation & Trenching: Dig to engineered specifications for utility lines, footings, and drainage systems. Ensure trench walls are stable and comply with provincial shoring and sloping regulations.
Lifting & Placing: Utilize the backhoe for lifting and placing pipes, manholes, and trench boxes. Calculate load capacities and utilize proper rigging techniques and signaling.
Site Restoration: Use the loader bucket and backhoe for backfilling, rough grading, and restoring sites to pre-excavation conditions.
Utility Safety: Operate safely around energized buried utilities. Coordinate with ground crews and "swampers" to ensure safe daylighting and avoidance of infrastructure.
Mentorship: If certified, provide technical coaching to junior operators. If finishing requirements, work with our Journeypersons to master Major Work Activities (MWAs) such as operating in tight urban corridors and complex multi-tool maneuvers.
Qualifications & Requirements
Certification Status: Must be a Journeyperson or a Senior Apprentice currently looking to finish their requirements to achieve their Red Seal Endorsement (RSE).
Technical Proficiency: Extensive experience operating various backhoe models (e.g., Cat 420, Case 580). Deep understanding of machine stability, center of gravity, and stabilizer deployment.
Safety Certifications: Valid Ground Disturbance Level 2, Trenching Safety, and WHMIS certifications are mandatory.
Physical Stamina: Ability to work long shifts, often in a cab that requires frequent twisting and repositioning to manage dual controls.
Driver’s License: Valid Class 5 license (Class 1 or 3 with Air Brake endorsement is preferred for equipment transport).
The Red Seal Standard
The Red Seal is Canada's mark of professional mastery in the heavy equipment trade. We support your career growth by providing:
The Path to Completion: For those finishing their RSE, we offer exposure to a wide range of tasks—from municipal roadwork to industrial site prep—ensuring you are fully prepared for the Interprovincial Exam.
Competitive Compensation: Top-tier wages that reflect your versatility as a multi-function operator and your commitment to national standards.
National Mobility: An RSE credential that ensures your skills are recognized and respected by elite contractors across every province and territory.
Journal
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