The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe transport, operation, and basic maintenance of heavy equipment used in telecommunications and utility construction. This role is versatile, requiring the ability to haul equipment to the site using tractor-trailer combinations and then operate it—specifically backhoes, skid steers, mini-excavators, and HDD support units—to execute underground utility work. A high degree of competency in equipment operation, maintenance, load securement, and logbook compliance is essential.

Core Competencies

Safety & Quality Focused

Heavy Equipment Operation (Backhoe/Skid Steer/Mini excavator/Mud truck)

Load Securement & Transport Compliance (Class 1)

Telecommunications Construction

Adaptability / Flexibility

Problem Solving

Accountability and Dependability

Attention to Detail

Job Responsibilities

• Equipment Operation: Safely operates backhoes, skid steers, and mini excavators to perform crew support work, trenching, backfilling, and surface restoration in accordance with utility depths and placement standards.
• Logistics & Transport: Mobilizes equipment and materials to and from job sites; responsible for loading, unloading, and securing heavy equipment on trailers in compliance with DOT/NSC regulations.
• Cable Installation Support: Operates cable pulling equipment and reel trailers, assisting the HDD and plow teams with the placement of fiber optic conduit and cable.
• Maintenance: Performs daily pre-trip inspections and routine maintenance (greasing, fluid checks) on both the transport trucks and the heavy equipment; reports mechanical defects immediately.
• Safety Adherence: Participates in daily toolbox meetings and completes Field Level Hazard Assessments (FLHA) before starting equipment; ensures all ground disturbance protocols are met before digging.
• Site Support: Assists with general labor and construction clean-up when not operating machinery to ensure team production targets are met.
• Documentation: Accurate completion of driver logbooks, bill of ladings, and equipment hour logs.

Requirements

• Valid AB Class 1 Driver’s License is highly preferred (Minimum Class 3 with air brake endorsement required).
• Clean driver’s abstract and solid understanding of Hours of Service and Cargo Securement regulations.
• Minimum 3 years of experience operating backhoes, skid steers, or similar utility construction equipment.
• Valid Ground Disturbance Level II certification.
• Experience with cable pulling equipment and fiber optic construction is an asset.
• Mechanically inclined with the ability to perform minor repairs and rigorous daily maintenance.
• Physically fit and able to bend, kneel, climb, and lift (up to 75 lbs.) to handle chains, boomers, and ramps.
• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather (i.e., snow, rain, wind, etc.) if required.

Work Conditions

• Ability to work in various environments/settings with moderate to loud noise levels.
• Equipped to work in tight urban rights-of-way and remote rural sites.
• Prepared to sit (driving/operating), stand, stoop, crouch, and lift for long periods.
• Travel and overtime are frequently required to meet project deadlines across Western Canada.