Heavy Equipment Operators and Tractor-Trailer Commercial Drivers

Heavy Equipment Operators operate a Tractor Loader Backhoe (636A), Excavator (636B), or Dozer (636C), its attachments and ground engaging equipment in various types of projects across multiple industries, such as road construction and maintenance, mining, quarrying, land clearing, forestry, logging, as well as gas and oil. The heavy equipment operators inspect, maintain, transport (if required) and operate this equipment and attachments.

Tractor-Trailer Commercial Drivers (638A) operate a tractor-trailer for commercial purposes to transport goods, products and materials across provincial, national and international routes. They plan and execute driving routes, secure cargo and loads to ensure safety and prevent damage, inspect equipment, conduct routine vehicle safety checks and reports problems, prepare compliance and commercial documentation, and practice defensive and courteous driving techniques. They may also be called Transport Truck Drivers.

Note: As 636 A, B, C and 638A are all non-compulsory trades, potential apprentices may experience difficulty finding a sponsor.  Employer preferences will depend on the specific hiring needs and expectations of the organization. For example, while Ontario generally sees over 1,000 Heavy Equipment Operator (HEO)  job postings annually and 10,000 Commercial Driver job postings annually, less than 10% of those working in the field are registered as apprentices in Ontario.  Potential apprentices seeking hands-on learning opportunities may consider seeking a college program with co-op opportunities.

Other similar trades (but with low demand in the QUILL region):

• Hoisting Engineer — Mobile Crane Operator

• Hoisting Engineer — Tower Crane Operator