As a Masonry Heavy Equipment Operator with the Department of National Defence, you will operate and maintain heavy equipment used in construction, demolition, and site preparation activities. You will work on military infrastructure projects across Canada, including the construction and maintenance of buildings, roads, airfields, and other essential facilities that support Canadian Armed Forces operations. Your work directly contributes to maintaining world-class infrastructure that enables the defence and security of Canada.
Your daily responsibilities include operating equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and compactors with precision and safety as top priorities. You will follow detailed blueprints and site plans, coordinate with other trades and supervisors, and ensure all work meets strict safety standards and quality specifications. You may also perform preventive maintenance on equipment, report mechanical issues, and maintain accurate records of work completed.
You will typically work on construction sites in varying weather conditions and environments. This is a hands-on role that requires focus, physical capability, and a strong commitment to workplace safety. You may work standard hours or shifts depending on project demands, and travel to different locations across the country may be required.
Key Responsibilities
Perform masonry tasks maintaining government facilities and assets, Operate tools, equipment, and machinery safely, Follow technical specifications and safety procedures, Maintain records of work performed and materials used
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12 or GED). Many candidates bring prior experience operating heavy equipment, either through military service, apprenticeships, or private sector construction work. A valid Class 3 or 5 driver's license is usually required.
Professional certifications that strengthen your application include a Heavy Equipment Operator ticket or certification from a recognized trade school or apprenticeship program. Some provinces require specific licenses for operating certain equipment types. Within DND, you will receive on-the-job training specific to military construction standards and safety protocols. The department supports ongoing professional development, including equipment-specific training, advanced operation techniques, and safety recertifications. You may also have opportunities to pursue additional certifications in equipment specializations, rigging, or supervisor-level qualifications as your career progresses.
Entry Plans
The Government of Canada recruits Masonry Heavy Equipment Operators through competitive staffing processes managed by DND and the Public Service Commission. Entry typically occurs through one of several pathways: open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND's career website, departmental staffing pools for candidates who have previously applied, or lateral transfers from other federal departments or Canadian Armed Forces members transitioning to civilian roles.
If you are a Canadian Armed Forces member, you may be able to transition into this civilian role through integrated recruitment processes that recognize your military experience and training. Recent graduates or apprentices may enter through targeted recruitment campaigns or student work programs. All candidates must pass a security clearance process appropriate to the position and meet residency requirements for federal employment. We encourage you to regularly check the Government of Canada Job Bank and the DND Civilian Careers website for current postings, as competition frequency varies by location and operational needs.
Part-Time Options
Heavy Equipment Operator positions with DND are typically full-time permanent roles. However, the department does occasionally offer indeterminate part-time positions depending on project scope and operational requirements. Flexibility in work arrangements is generally limited due to the nature of construction site work, safety protocols, and project schedules. Most positions require presence on-site during active construction phases.
Remote work is not applicable to this role, as heavy equipment operation must be performed on-site. Shift work or extended hours may be required during peak construction seasons or time-sensitive projects. If you are interested in part-time opportunities, we recommend discussing options during the recruitment process, as availability depends on current departmental projects and regional needs. The department is committed to supporting work-life balance where operational demands allow, and may be able to discuss scheduling preferences during the hiring process.
