Grader Operator - Suncor Base Mine Extension - Fort McMurray
NACG seeks experienced Grader Operators for the Suncor Basemine in Fort McMurray, Alberta. This unionized IUOE Local 955 role operates articulating motor graders (16-24 ft blade; Caterpillar/John Deere) to maintain haul roads, loading and dump areas in a large open-pit mining environment. The position offers up to $51.29/hour (plus $1.20/hour night premium), paid weekly, and bussing from Fort McMurray. Benefits include vacation/stat pay on each cheque, PPE provided (bring CSA steel-toed boots), union membership, and benefits & pension after 400 hours with room for growth and advancement.
Position
Field
Equipment OperatorsWork Rotation
Accommodations
Responsibilities
The Grader Operator maintains safe, efficient haul road and pit conditions using articulating motor graders within a mining earthworks environment.
- Operate 16-24 ft blade articulating motor graders (e.g., Caterpillar, John Deere) to maintain roadways, loading, and dump areas.
- Read grade stakes, place grade as required, and utilize GPS equipment.
- Complete pre-use inspections; perform field-level risk/hazard assessments as tasks change.
- Participate in safe fueling/servicing; interact safely with light vehicles, hauling, loading, and dumping equipment.
- Follow mine driving rules and all company/client/legislated safety standards and procedures.
- Use required PPE; review and follow safe work plans and hazard assessments prior to job commencement.
- Report necessary or anticipated repairs to maintenance; immediately report incidents, near misses, or damage.
Requirements
Candidates demonstrate proven grader proficiency in mining or heavy construction with strong safety and communication skills.
- Minimum 2 years operating graders (16 ft or larger preferred); experience on Caterpillar M-Series an asset.
- Haul road maintenance experience an asset; minimum 1 year in mining or heavy construction earthworks preferred.
- Able to read grade stakes; familiar with GPS.
- Valid Class 5 Driver's License with acceptable abstract (within 30 days); proficient in English (verbal/written).
- Pre-employment/onboarding (site-based roles): CSO/BSO, Silica Awareness, Wood Buffalo Wildlife Awareness, OHS Alberta Legislation Awareness, H2S Awareness, Field Ergonomics (Energy Safety Canada); alcohol/drug testing, fitness-to-work, audiometric, vision screening, criminal record check; random testing at Suncor/Fort Hills/Kearl.
Perks and Benefits
This unionized mining role provides competitive hourly pay, consistent scheduling, and comprehensive benefits upon hours threshold.
- Up to $51.29/hour combined rate; +$1.20/hour night premium; paid weekly.
- Vacation & statutory holiday pay allocated to each paycheck.
- Membership in IUOE Local 955; benefits & pension after 400 hours (medical, dental).
- Bussing from Fort McMurray to/from site; save on fuel/parking costs.
- PPE provided (bring CSA steel-toed boots).
- Career growth and advancement within a large, safety-focused contractor.
Worksite/Project
Suncor Base Mine Extension Project
The Suncor Base Mine Extension Project is a proposed initiative aimed at sustaining bitumen supply to Suncor's existing Base Plant operations near Fort McMurray, Alberta. As the current mine is projected to be largely depleted by the mid-2030s, this extension seeks to develop a new open-pit mining area adjacent to the existing facilities. The proposed expansion would produce approximately 225,000 barrels of bitumen per day, offsetting and eventually replacing declining production from the original mine. The project is currently undergoing a comprehensive impact assessment, which includes public participation and environmental evaluations, to ensure responsible development.
Suncor Base Mine Extension ProjectEmployer Hiring
North American Construction Group
North American Construction Group Ltd. (NACG) is a leading mining contractor and heavy civil construction company, specializing in oilsands mining, overburden removal, mine site development, and reclamation. Founded in 1953, NACG has grown into one of Canada's largest heavy equipment and mining service providers, delivering earthworks, tailings management, and infrastructure development for the resource extraction industry. The company plays a key role in Alberta's oilsands operations, supporting major mining sites such as Syncrude Mine, Aurora Mine, Suncor Base Mine, Fort Hills Mine, and Kearl Mine. NACG operates one of Canada's largest fleets of haul trucks, shovels, and earthmoving equipment, ensuring cost-effective, high-production mining solutions that drive sustainable resource development. With a strong focus on mine reclamation, environmental management, and operational efficiency, NACG continues to be a trusted partner in large-scale energy and mining projects across North America.
North American Construction Group