Mainline Excavator Operator – Underground Utilities

Edmonton, AB
On-site
Posted Oct 3, 2026
1 position

$40–$46 / hour

Opens an external site

Employment type: Full-time
Experience level: Mid-level · 3+ years
Minimum education: Professional degree
Posting language: English
Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job summary

Operate excavators for mainline water, sewer, and utility rehabilitation projects while coordinating closely with pipe crews. Ensure safe excavation practices and maintain equipment through daily inspections and adherence to safety policies.

Job details

Firma Contracting is hiring an experienced Mainline Excavator Operator to support underground utility, water and sewer construction projects across Edmonton and surrounding areas. We are looking for an operator with hands-on experience working alongside pipe crews, particularly on utility rehabilitation and replacement projects in developed residential and commercial areas. Firma offers competitive wages, opportunities for advancement and training, work-life balance, and the potential for continued work throughout the winter. Our rehabilitation projects also allow us to maintain more consistent operations with less weather-related downtime. Hourly Wage: $40–$46/hour, based on experience Key Responsibilities Operate excavators on mainline water, sewer and underground utility projects Perform excavation for utility rehabilitation and replacement work Work safely around existing underground infrastructure in residential and commercial areas Coordinate closely with pipe crews during excavation and pipe installation Safely lower pipe and other materials into excavations using appropriate rigging procedures Operate equipment around ground personnel and other machinery while maintaining appropriate clearances Follow applicable excavation, trenching and ground disturbance requirements Maintain strong production while meeting project safety and quality expectations Complete daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair requirements Follow Firma’s safety policies, procedures and site-specific requirements Maintain professional communication with Foremen, Superintendents and field crews Experience & Qualifications Minimum 3 years of experience as a Mainline Excavator Operator Previous underground utility rehabilitation or replacement experience is required Experience with water and sewer infrastructure Strong understanding of safe excavation and trenching practices Ability to work independently while following direction from the Foreman or Superintendent Strong communication and coordination skills when working with ground crews Safety-focused approach to equipment operation Experience operating additional heavy equipment is considered an asset Required Certifications CSTS 2020 WHMIS 2015 Ground Disturbance Level 2

What you’ll do

Requirements

Requires a minimum of 3 years of experience as a Mainline Excavator Operator with specific background in underground utility rehabilitation. Must hold valid CSTS 2020, WHMIS 2015, and Ground Disturbance Level 2 certifications.