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Crushing Operator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Experience in operating heavy equipment and preferably crushing equipment. * Experience working around aggregate crushing equipment, such as jaw, cone, and crushers, would be considered an asset.

Develops crushing strategies for all additives and limestone and resolves material handling issues (shale, red shale, gypsum, iron, sandstone, etc). * Reduces the quarry's operating cost by ...

Crushing Operator information

What is a crushing operator?

Crushing Operators are professionals responsible for operating and monitoring machinery used to crush rocks, minerals, or other materials in mining, quarrying, or construction industries. Their main duties include setting up and adjusting crushing equipment, ensuring materials are processed to required specifications, and maintaining safety standards. They also conduct routine maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and record production data. Crushing Operators play a crucial role in material production, ensuring efficient and safe operation of crushing plants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crushing operator?

To thrive as a Crushing Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, equipment operation skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by relevant safety training. Familiarity with crushing and screening machinery, conveyor systems, and basic maintenance tools is essential, and OSHA or MSHA certifications may be required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient operation of machinery, minimize downtime, and maintain productivity in industrial or mining environments.

What are some common challenges crushing operators face in maintaining safe and efficient operations on site?

Crushing Operators often encounter challenges such as managing equipment malfunctions, ensuring consistent material feed, and adhering to strict safety protocols. They must stay vigilant for potential hazards like dust, noise, and machinery jams, which can impact both productivity and safety. Effective communication with maintenance teams and other site personnel is essential to quickly resolve issues and maintain smooth operation. Additionally, operators need to regularly inspect and calibrate machinery to prevent downtime and optimize output.

What is the difference between Crushing Operator vs Excavator Operator?

AspectCrushing OperatorExcavator Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation trainingHigh school diploma, safety certifications, equipment operation training
Work EnvironmentQuarry, construction sites, recycling plantsConstruction sites, mining, demolition projects
Industry UsageMining, aggregate production, recyclingConstruction, demolition, mining

Both Crushing Operators and Excavator Operators require safety certifications and equipment training. Crushing Operators focus on operating crushing machinery in quarries and recycling plants, while Excavator Operators handle excavators for digging and material movement. Their roles often overlap in construction and mining industries, but each specializes in different equipment and tasks.

Infographic showing various Crushing Operator job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Lead Heavy Equipment Operator

Edmonton, AB • Remote

GFL Environmental
Environmental Quality Programs Administration • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


GFL Environmental rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 177 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


We are seeking a highly self-motivated and independent Lead Heavy Equipment Operator to operate heavy earthworks and processing equipment across remote job sites. You will spend the vast majority of your time behind the controls, taking full ownership of project execution, holding yourself and your crews strictly accountable for quality work, and proactively solving problems on the fly. This role requires a true self-starter who thrives in high-autonomy environments, thinks quickly on their feet, and takes immediate initiative to overcome unexpected field challenges without waiting for direction.

Why Join GFL?

  • Competitive Compensation: High earning potential that reflects your willingness to work hard, operate equipment, and manage remote site requirements.
  • High-Impact Role: Take full accountability for field outcomes while leading by example behind the controls.
  • Professional Challenge:Work on projects across Western Canada.
  • Stability & Growth:Join an industry leader committed to sustainability and professional excellence.

What You'll Do

  • Hands-On Operation: Spend most of your time directly operating heavy earthworks and processing equipment at peak performance.
  • Take Initiative & Solve Problems: Think fast on your feet to resolve unexpected mechanical and site obstacles instantly without waiting for step-by-step guidance.
  • Drive Accountability: Lead remote work sites by setting a high standard of work ethic, holding both yourself and your crew accountable for safety, output, and quality.
  • Manage Remote Workflows: Work independently across distant project locations, managing daily tasks, equipment care, and project deadlines seamlessly.

What You Bring

  • Travel Commitment:Ability and willingness to undertake frequent travel throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan to support critical project sites.
  • Deep Technical Expertise:Extensive experience in heavy earthworks and processing equipment (e.g., forestry or gravel crushing operations).While landfill experience is an asset, a strong background in similar heavy industrial environments is highly valued.
  • Problem-Solving Ability: Ability to troubleshoot operational issues instantly and adapt to changing conditions on site.
  • Mobility:Must be available for significant travel throughout Western Canada.
  • Commitment:Ability to work a schedule involving heavy overtime to ensure the success of critical projects.
  • Independence:Ability to thrive in a high-pressure, autonomous environment and make sound, on-the-spot decisions.

If you are a driven operator who takes pride in your work and thrives in a remote, high-initiative environment, apply today!

#GFLTalent


We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


GFL is committed to equal opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. If you are interested in applying for employment and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contactmyworkdayrecruitment@gflenv.com
Please note that GFL does not provide visa sponsorship
for this position. Valid work authorization in the country where the job is located is required.Successful candidates will be required to provide valid documentation confirming their eligibility to work in the country where the job is located prior to their start date.


This hiring process may utilize machine-based systems to assist in screening and assessing applicants. Final selection decisions are made by our recruitment team.



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