Heavy Equipment Maintenance Manager in Nisku, Alberta at Backwoods

Backwoods Energy Services is a leading supplier of access and matting solutions, civil and forestry services, pipeline maintenance and security services in Western Canada. We have been able to attract best-in-class management, staff, and operators from across the industry, allowing us to successfully complete some of the largest midstream and utility projects in Alberta. Moreover, we have become the largest employer of Alexis band members, the largest independent source of income in the community.

Each day, our team strives to live our mission of Driving economic opportunity by empowering Indigenous people and communities. The work we do at Backwoods is meaningful, as it helps build and grow the Alexis community. Experiencing the impact that our work has for building a sustainable future for Alexis is something we are passionate about.

Backwoods Energy Services is 100% owned by the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation and one of the largest Indigenous owned companies in Canada.

Role Summary

Backwoods is seeking an experienced and motivated individual to fill the position of Heavy Equipment Maintenance Manager. This position will be Monday through Friday out of our Nisku, Alberta Location. This role will report directly to the Operations Manager, Logistics Solutions. The Heavy Equipment Maintenance Manager is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and lifecycle management of all company-owned heavy equipment. This role ensures that equipment is safe, reliable, and operating efficiently to support ongoing operations. The Manager leads a team of technicians, manages preventative maintenance programs, and controls maintenance costs while minimizing downtime.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader with extensive mechanical knowledge, excellent organizational skills, and experience managing maintenance teams in construction, civil, industrial, mining, or related environments.

Responsibilities

Maintenance & Fleet Oversight

· Manage all preventative maintenance and repair programs for heavy equipment, fleet vehicles, trailers, and support equipment.

· Ensure equipment inspections, servicing, and repairs are completed efficiently and in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

· Monitor equipment performance, downtime, and maintenance trends to improve reliability and reduce operational disruptions.

· Coordinate emergency repairs and prioritize equipment needs based on operational requirements.

· Maintain accurate service records, maintenance logs, warranties, and compliance documentation.

Team Leadership

· Supervise maintenance personnel, mechanics, apprentices, and shop staff.

· Provide leadership, coaching, training, and performance management to maintenance employees.

· Schedule staff and allocate resources to ensure timely completion of maintenance activities.

· Promote a positive safety culture and maintain high standards of workmanship and accountability.

Safety & Compliance

· Ensure compliance with company policies, OH&S regulations, environmental standards, and applicable legislation.

· Conduct regular safety meetings, inspections, and hazard assessments.

· Ensure all tools, equipment, and shop facilities are maintained in a safe working condition.

· Coordinate and maintain required certifications, inspections, and licensing for equipment.

Budgeting & Inventory Control

· Develop and manage maintenance budgets and repair costs.

· Monitor parts usage, inventory levels, and supplier relationships.

· Source and procure parts, tools, and external repair services as required.

· Identify opportunities to reduce maintenance costs and improve operational efficiency.

Operational Support

· Work closely with operations and project teams to ensure equipment availability and readiness.

· Assist in fleet planning, equipment replacement strategies, and capital asset management.

· Provide recommendations regarding equipment purchases, disposals, and lifecycle planning.

· Support mobilization and demobilization activities for projects and field operations.

Qualifications

· Journeyperson Heavy Equipment Technician certification or equivalent mechanical background preferred.

· Minimum [5+] years of heavy equipment maintenance experience.

· Minimum [3+] years in a supervisory or management role.

· Strong knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems, trailers, and heavy equipment diagnostics.

· Experience with construction, civil, mining, industrial, or oilfield equipment considered an asset.

· Strong understanding of preventative maintenance systems and fleet management software.

· Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

· Valid driver’s license required; Class 1 or 3 considered an asset.

· Focus on Health & Safety.

Preferred Equipment Experience

Experience maintaining and managing equipment such as:

ExcavatorsDozersLoadersSkid steersGradersGravel trucksService trucksGeneratorsTrailersLight-duty fleet vehicles

working conditions

Combination of office, shop, and field environments.May require occasional travel to project sites.On-call availability for emergency breakdowns may be required.Ability to work in various weather and site conditions.

skills & competencies

Leadership & Team ManagementMechanical TroubleshootingPreventative Maintenance PlanningBudget & Cost ControlInventory ManagementSafety ComplianceTime ManagementProblem SolvingCommunication & Coordination

Key Performance Indicators

· Open and honest team player

· Positive and engaging personality

· Flexible, influential and collaborative

· Excellent customer service skills

· Efficient coordination of Material Tracking

· Accurate Tracking of all Inventory

· Effective support to Operations Manager and other personal

How To Apply

Please submit your cover letter and resume directly to our website: backwoodsenergy.ca/careers

We thank all applicants for their interest in this position, however only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent(s) of this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and activities required of the position.