1

Manipulator Driver Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Manipulator Driver information

What is a manipulator driver?

A Manipulator Driver is a skilled professional responsible for operating specialized remote-controlled or mechanical equipment known as manipulators. These machines are often used in hazardous environments, such as nuclear facilities, manufacturing plants, or laboratories, to handle materials or perform tasks that would be dangerous for humans. The driver uses controls to precisely maneuver the manipulator’s arms, grippers, or tools to complete tasks ranging from moving heavy objects to conducting detailed assembly work. Manipulator Drivers must have strong technical skills, attention to safety, and the ability to follow strict operational procedures. They often work closely with engineers and safety personnel to ensure safe and effective operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manipulator driver, and why are they important?

To excel as a Manipulator Driver, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, safety regulations, and often a relevant certification or license. Experience with remote-control systems, hydraulic controls, and specific manipulator models is typically required. Strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help ensure safe and efficient operations. These abilities are crucial for preventing accidents, maintaining productivity, and ensuring precise handling in demanding industrial environments.

What are some common challenges manipulator drivers face when operating heavy machinery in industrial settings?

Manipulator Drivers often work in environments with large, complex equipment and tight spaces, which can make maneuvering the machinery safely a challenge. They must stay highly focused to avoid collisions or damage to delicate materials, especially when handling loads with irregular shapes or weights. Additionally, collaborating closely with team members such as crane operators, riggers, and supervisors is essential to coordinate movements and maintain a safe workflow. Effective communication and a strong safety mindset are key to overcoming these daily challenges.

What is the difference between Manipulator Driver vs Forklift Operator?

AspectManipulator DriverForklift Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, possibly specialized trainingForklift certification, OSHA compliance
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, warehouses, manufacturing plantsWarehouses, shipping docks, factories
Industry UsageHeavy machinery operation, material handlingMaterial movement, loading/unloading

Both Manipulator Drivers and Forklift Operators operate in industrial settings and require specific certifications. Manipulator Drivers typically handle specialized machinery for precise material placement, while Forklift Operators focus on moving goods with forklifts. The roles often overlap in warehouse environments, but their equipment and specific tasks differ.

Infographic showing various Manipulator Driver job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

OTR Tire Technician (Aurora)

Fort Mcmurray, AB • On-site

CA$36.18/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Position Scope

NASI is seeking OTR Tire Technicians to join our remote mining site team in the Fort McMurray area.

This is your opportunity to join one of the safest and largest contractors in the region.

For this role, NASI offers a base rate of up to $36.18/hour as well as room for growth!

Where You’ll Be Working

  • Site: Syncrude-Aurora
  • Schedule: 14 x 14 (days only) 12 hour shifts (paid 11.5 hrs)
  • Accommodations: Camp is not provided
  • Work Duration: 6 months +, may be extended
  • Tentative start date: March 18, 2026
  • Transportation: Bussing provided from Fort McMurray to site (before and after shifts)
  • Overtime: Provided after 8 hours in a day or 44 hours in a week 

Please note that this is a CLAC position and candidates working under NASI will be under the collective agreement.

What’s In It for You?

Benefits are important and we offer lots!

  • Up to a base rate of pay of $36.18/hour, varying with experience level.
  • Vacation and Statutory Holiday pay allocated to each paycheck.
  • Earn up to 61 hours of overtime per 14-day rotation
  • Paid weekly.
  • Transportation to and from site, save on gas expenses!
  • PPE provided, just bring your own CSA certified steel toed boots.
  • Room for growth and future advancements.
  • Local, home every night!

What You'll Be Doing

  • Assist experienced Tireman until fully trained (level 1).
  • Set up haul trucks and heavy equipment for tire work.
  • Prepare and assemble OTR tires for installation/repair.
  • Operate Tire manipulators to assemble/install wheel/tire assemblies (or willing to be trained on these).

What Makes You the ONE

  • Previous experience dis-assembling/assembly and removal/installation of OTR tire/wheel assemblies.
  • Class 3 license preferred.
  • Tire Industry Association Certificate (TIA) or TIA Training is an asset.
  • Tire Manipulator (forklift or Loader style) experience an asset.
  • Tire truck (knuckle boom) manipulator experience an asset.

What's Next

If you are chosen to move forward in our hiring process for a site-based role, you will be asked to provide the following:

  1. Provide a valid Class 5 Driver’s License and ability to provide a recent Driver’s Abstract
  2. Valid CSO or BSO (Energy Safety Canada) 
  3. Silica Awareness (Energy Safety Canada)
  4. Wood Buffalo Wildlife Awareness (Energy Safety Canada) 
  5. OHS Alberta Legislation Awareness (Energy Safety Canada) 
  6. H2S Awareness (Energy Safety Canada) 
  7. Field Ergonomics (Energy Safety Canada) 
  8. Be subject to Random Testing at: Suncor, Suncor Fort Hills and Kearl sites
  9. Undergo and successfully pass the following pre-employment testing:
    • Breath Alcohol Test
    • Urine Drug Test

Once onboarded, the following processes will occur:

  1. Will receive a call from NASI to set up all required pre-employment testing
  2. An email will be sent with all required New Hire Paperwork to be filled out
  3. After all results and paperwork are received by NASI, candidates will be contacted by Site Admin to schedule orientation and confirm your start date and other site-specific details.

Please note: The onboarding process can take anywhere from 3-8 business days.

Shift, site, and start times are subject to change.

NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE, SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED VIA PHONE OR EMAIL.


NASI in a Nutshell

North American Services Inc. (NASI) is a supplier of heavy equipment operators, skilled maintenance, and quality leaders for embedded labour supply opportunities and for mine project services including civil earthworks, roadbuilding, construction, water management, infrastructure development, and other light to large scale industrial projects.

North American Services Inc. is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment where every employee feels safe, valued, and respected.  We recognize the talent, perspective, and creative force that diverse groups of people generate, and we encourage all people to express interest with us especially those from marginalized and underrepresented groups who might hesitate before applying.  If you require accommodation in submitting interest on a role or throughout our interview process, please email us at hiring@nasi.ca to ask for assistance.

North American Services Inc. acknowledges that we perform work on the Traditional Treaty 6 and 8 Territories, home to the Cree, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux and Nakota Sioux, and Metis. We encourage members of those and all traditional lands to apply with us. 

Become a member of the North American family today!