Contribute to the City of Hamilton, one of Canada’s largest cities - home to a diverse and strong economy, an active and inclusive community, a robust cultural and dining scene, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and natural beauty just minutes from the downtown core, and so much more. Join our diverse team of talented and ambitious staff who embody our values of sensational service, courageous change, steadfast integrity, collective ownership and being engaged empowered employees. Help us achieve our vision of being the best place to raise a child and age successfully. #BeTheReason

Job ID #32075: Hydraulic Backhoe Operator - Cemetery Union: CUPE Local 5167 Job Description ID #: 821 Close date: Interested applicants please submit your application online at www.hamilton.ca/city-council/jobs-city by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday July 15th, 2026. Duration: 12 months Vacancy type: This posting is for an existing vacancy Internal applicants should apply with your work e-mail address. External applicants are considered only after the internal posting process has been completed. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES Reports to Cemeteries Operations Supervisor. Operates and maintains backhoe; prepares gravesite; maintains grounds and other duties associated with the operation and maintenance of City cemeteries.

GENERAL DUTIES Operate and maintain backhoe. Prepare gravesite by digging and backfilling. Lift and install grave liners. Remove and install upright monuments and flat markers. Dig trenches for water lines and drainage. Load and unload equipment and materials. Operate equipment such as front mount mower, soil shredder, bobcat, front-end loader and leaf blowers. Attach and detach accessory pieces of equipment such as forks, frost pick, digging buckets and rapid rams. Maintain grounds by clearing debris, snow, dead trees and shrubs. Perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on equipment. Perform labouring duties. Work in accordance with the provisions of applicable Health and Safety legislation and all City of Hamilton corporate and departmental policies and procedures related to Occupational Health and Safety. Perform other duties as assigned which are directly related to the major responsibilities of the job

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Previous experience operating hydraulic backhoe and tools and other equipment in a safe manner.
2. Must possess and maintain a valid class “DZ” drivers licence and have a driving record found to be satisfactory to the City of Hamilton.
3. Must be able to follow verbal and/or written instructions in performing a variety of tasks including the ability to use simple arithmetic and complete reports and logs.
4. Must be physically able to lift over 25 kg on a regular basis and able to do manual labour for extended periods of time.
5. Knowledge and experience in the operation of various pieces of equipment including trucks, tractors, grass cutting equipment and attachments in a safe manner and must be able to work with minimal supervision.
6. Must be able to understand and follow detailed procedures, verbal/written instructions in performing a variety of tasks such as operate vehicles or assist on trade or craft-type work.
7. Previous experience working in a construction environment or cemetery location would be an asset.
8. Previous backhoe operator experience related to duties listed above normally acquired by a combination of education and relevant work experience.
9. Ability to work with minimal supervision.
10. A valid “DZ” Driver’s Licence is required.

THIS POSITION REQUIRES A VALID “DZ” DRIVER’S LICENCE AND PROOF THEREOF IS REQUIRED AFTER HIRE. SALARY: Salary Grade E HOURS: 40 per week THE INCUMBENT SHALL COMPLY WITH ALL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES AND PRACTICES FOR THIS POSITION AND THE WORKPLACE.

Disclaimer: Be advised that Human Resources frequently audits resumes of internal/external applicants to ensure/validate information provided is consistent and trustworthy. Falsification of information provided at any time throughout the recruitment process may be grounds for disqualification, and for internal applicants, subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Terms: The City is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes. Consistent with our Values and Corporate Culture Pillars, the City of Hamilton is committed to providing equitable treatment to all with respect to barrier-free employment and accommodation without discrimination. The City will provide accommodation for applicants in all aspects of the hiring process, up to the point of undue hardship. If you have an accommodation need, please contact Human Resources as soon as possible to make appropriate arrangements.