Basement Excavator Operator

Calgary, AB
On-site
Posted Sep 8, 2026
1 position

$30–$38 / hour

Opens an external site

Employment type: Full-time
Experience level: Mid-level · 2+ years
Minimum education: Professional degree
Posting language: English
Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job summary

Operate small and mid-sized excavators to dig basements in residential subdivisions while navigating around utilities. Maintain a safe work environment and collaborate effectively with the construction team.

Job details

Basement Excavator Operator Kidco Construction is looking for a talented, reliable, and experienced Excavator Operator to join our Foundations Excavation Division. This position focuses on detailed residential excavation work in new subdivisions, digging single-family home basements using primarily 20-25 ton CAT excavators. Responsibilities * Safely operate 20-25 ton excavators in residential subdivisions. * Perform detailed basement excavations for single-family homes. * Read and interpret blueprints, plot plans, grade slips, foundation plans, and utility locates. * Excavate safely around underground utilities and existing infrastructure. * Set up and use laser levels to establish excavation grades and elevations. * Coordinate and communicate with supervisors and tandem truck drivers hauling material to and from site. * Perform daily equipment inspections, fueling, and greasing. * Install and remove temporary fencing around jobsite perimeters. * Complete timesheets and required job documentation. * Take pre-construction and post-construction site photos, including Quick-Trench documentation and damage prevention records. * Maintain proper slopes, grades, and excavation tolerances. * Work safely alongside other trades and contractors on active construction sites. Our Ideal Candidate * Minimum 2 years of experience digging basements in residential subdivisions. * Experienced operating excavators in tight residential environments. * Strong understanding of residential excavation practices, grading, and site development. * Ability to accurately read blueprints, plot plans, grade slips, foundation plans, and utility locates. * Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship. * Comfortable digging around utilities and working in congested construction areas. * Team-oriented with excellent communication skills. * Reliable transportation to and from work. * Valid Class 5 Driver's License with a clean driver's abstract preferred. * Able to work year-round. * Ground Disturbance Level 2 (201) Certification required. Training can be provided for qualified candidates who do not currently hold certification. What We Offer * Competitive hourly wage of $30.00-$38.00 per hour, based on experience. * Pay increases for strong performers. * Company truck provided. * Full benefits package through Open Circle, including: * Dental coverage * Vision care * Extended health benefits * Prescription drug coverage * Paid overtime after 8 hours per day or 44 hours per week. * Holiday and vacation pay paid on every cheque at 9.6%. * RRSP Matching Program. * Comprehensive Safety Excellence Program. * Full-time, year-round employment. * Typical work weeks averaging 50 hours per week. * Career advancement and development opportunities. Why Join Kidco Construction? When you join the team at Kidco Construction, the effort you put in is reflected in what you get out: competitive wages, excellent benefits for you and your dependents, late-season work, consistent hours, opportunities to build your skills, a strong safety culture, and the chance to work with a goal-oriented team that takes pride in delivering quality projects. Apply today and build your future with Kidco Construction.

What you’ll do

Requirements

Requires at least 2 years of experience in basement excavation and the ability to read blueprints. A valid class 5 driver's license and Ground Disturbance Level 2 certification are preferred.