Backhoe operator Jobs in Nanaimo, BC

Join a company that prides itself on putting its people first.

Competitive salary of $38.11/hour

About the Organization

Created in 2008 and privately held, Harmac Pacific Pulp operates a Northern Bleached Softwood Kraft pulp mill on the East coast of Vancouver Island near Nanaimo, BC. Nanaimo Forest Products (NFP) Ltd., the owner of the Harmac Pacific trademark, restarted the mill with a single production line on October 3, 2008. Since that time the mill has grown to five production lines and a capacity of 400,000 tonnes of world-class pulp per year. Key to Harmac’s success is the employee ownership model. Our employees are very active participants in the running of the business and have 2 members that they elect to the company’s 6 seats on its Board of Directors.

The future of Harmac Pacific Pulp continues to look bright due to our highly engaged workforce highlighted by our employee shareholder ownership model. Through extensive capital investments, the organization has made significant improvements in productivity and reliability. In addition, as of 2013, the installation has been complete of a 25 MW Green Energy turbogenerator which we currently use to sell power to BC Hydro.

Job Description

Harmac Pacific Pulp Mill is seeking energetic, mechanically inclined, and safety-focused individuals to join our Operations team. Reporting to the Shift or Area Supervisor, the successful candidate will support mill operations through a combination of production support, equipment operation, process monitoring, operational housekeeping, and maintenance-related activities.

This position provides exposure to a wide range of mill systems and processes, offering hands-on experience with industrial equipment, production operations, and process control. New employees receive training across entry-level operational roles and provide relief coverage throughout the mill, creating opportunities for skill development, advancement, and long-term career growth.

Shifts may be 10 or 12 hours in duration, with overtime as required. This is an opportunity to build a rewarding career in a modern industrial environment while working under the Labour Agreement with PPWC Local 8 and receiving a competitive compensation and benefits package.

Key Responsibilities

• Support safe and efficient mill operations across production areas.
• Monitor equipment and process conditions, identifying and reporting operational issues.
• Assist with startup, shutdown, and routine operation of production equipment.
• Operate forklifts and other mobile equipment safely and effectively.
• Perform equipment inspections and basic operator maintenance tasks.
• Participate in troubleshooting and problem-solving activities to support production goals.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas through operational housekeeping.
• Shovel chips, sawdust, and other materials as required.
• Perform grate cleaning, air lancing, and conveyor cleaning activities.
• Clean reclaim pit platforms and surrounding production areas.
• Handle and remove wood, metal, and other production debris.
• Follow operating procedures, safety regulations, and environmental standards.
• Complete other production and operational duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Driver's License.
• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Mechanical aptitude and an interest in industrial processes and equipment.
• Experience operating mobile equipment (forklift, skid steer, loader, or similar) is considered an asset.
• Ability to learn technical operating procedures and industrial systems.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Adaptable, flexible, and willing to learn new skills.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, and overtime as required.
• Physically fit and capable of performing demanding industrial work.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Strong communication skills and a positive, accountable work ethic.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, have an interest in industrial operations, and want to develop technical skills in a manufacturing environment. Whether your background includes trades, equipment operation, forestry, manufacturing, maintenance, or other industrial experience, Harmac offers opportunities to learn, grow, and advance into higher-level operational roles.

Additional Asset

• Valid Advanced First Aid Certificate

Benefits

This position offers a wealth of benefits including Extended Health & Dental Benefits, AD&D, Group Life, and Long-Term Disability Coverage, and a Retirement Pension. The company and union also provide their own Short-Term Disability Plan.

Best of all, you will be joining a company that prides itself on putting its people first. This is a job that will truly enrich your life both personally and professionally!

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