About Backwoods

Backwoods Energy Services is 100% Indigenous-owned and provides construction services to the oil, gas, and utility industries in north-western Alberta. We are the one of the largest Indigenous community owned companies in Alberta and focus on building lasting client relationships with a commitment to safety excellence and quality service. Our business consists of five operating divisions: Civil Works and Clearing, Environmental Services, Pipeline and Integrity Maintenance, Matting Supply and Installation and Security Services. Our mission is to drive economic opportunity by empowering Indigenous people and communities.

Heavy Equipment Operators – Forestry Operations

Now Hiring

We are currently seeking experienced, safety-focused Heavy Equipment Operators to join our forestry operations team. We are hiring experienced operators for the following equipment:

• 250 HP Forestry Mulcher
• Feller Buncher
• Processor
• Skidder
• Excavator

This position reports directly to the Foreman and is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of forestry equipment while maintaining productivity and adhering to all company safety standards. Operators are also expected to assist with general labour duties when equipment operation is not required.

Work Location & Schedule

Our current project is located between Edmonton and Edson, Alberta.

Successful candidates must be willing to:

• Travel to and remain at the project site for their scheduled rotation.
• Work a rotational schedule of approximately 10 days on / 4 days off.
• Work 12-hour shifts

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum 2 years' experience operating one or more of the following: Feller Buncher, Processor, Skidder, 250 HP Forestry Mulcher, or Excavator.
• Valid Class 5 Driver's License with a clean driver's abstract.
• Standard First Aid
• CSTS 2020
• Ground Disturbance Level II

Equipment Operator Responsibilities

250 HP Forestry Mulcher Operator

• Operate a 250 HP forestry mulcher for right-of-way and land-clearing projects.
• Clear brush, trees, and vegetation while following project flagging and specifications.
• Operate safely in soft ground and challenging terrain.
• Complete daily inspections and routine servicing.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and report mechanical issues.

Feller Buncher Operator

• Safely harvest and bunch standing timber.
• Follow flagged boundaries and production plans.
• Operate efficiently in varying terrain and ground conditions.
• Perform daily inspections and preventative maintenance.
• Maintain equipment in good working condition.

Processor Operator

• Process and cut timber to required lengths.
• Maximize production while maintaining quality standards.
• Perform routine servicing and daily inspections.
• Operate safely in forestry environments.

Skidder Operator

• Transport and stack logs into designated log decks.
• Operate safely in soft ground conditions.
• Perform daily inspections and routine maintenance.
• Work closely with harvesting crews to maintain production.

Excavator Operator

• Minimum 3 years of excavator experience preferred.
• Perform stumping and grubbing operations.
• Load and handle brush during forestry operations.
• Operate safely on forestry worksites.
• Conduct daily inspections and routine maintenance.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and report deficiencies.

General Responsibilities

• Operate equipment safely and efficiently.
• Complete pre-trip and daily equipment inspections.
• Perform routine servicing and preventative maintenance.
• Keep equipment clean and in good working order.
• Assist with loading and unloading equipment when required.
• Perform general labour duties as assigned.
• Follow company safety policies and environmental requirements.
• Report hazards, incidents, and equipment concerns promptly.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating one or more of the listed equipment types.
• Forestry, right-of-way, or land-clearing experience preferred.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable, dependable, and motivated.
• Physically capable of working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to work rotational shifts, overtime, weekends, and travel as required.
• Ability to successfully complete a practical competency assessment.

Why Join Our Team?

• Competitive wages
• Consistent rotational work schedule
• Opportunity to work on large-scale forestry and land-clearing projects
• Safety-focused work environment
• Long-term opportunities for qualified operators

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.