Equipment Operator - Hydrovac / Directional Drilling / Locating

Kibbi; Melfort; On-site; CAD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Forbes Bros. Group of Companies is seeking an Equipment Operator in Canada to ensure the safe operation of heavy machinery. You will perform daily pre-use and post-use checks and support field construction teams on power infrastructure projects.

You must have equipment operator training/certification and 3–5 years of experience operating gear such as excavators, loaders, and hydrovac units. A valid Saskatchewan licence is required, with crane training a plus, and safety is a core priority.

Qualifications

• Equipment operator training/certification appropriate to the equipment being operated.
• 3-5 years of experience operating heavy equipment on construction or utility projects.
• Experience with Hydrovac, directional drilling, locating, or similar equipment is an asset.
• Valid Saskatchewan Class 5A driver’s licence; 3A/1A preferred; crane/lifting training a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy equipment safely in accordance with legislation and site procedures.
• Perform daily pre-use and post-use safety checks and maintenance tasks.
• Coordinate with foreman and field team to follow site plans and tasks.
• Keep equipment clean, stored securely, and documentation up to date.
• Identify maintenance needs and inform the Fleet Foreman promptly.

Skills

3-5 years equipment operation

Hydrovac & drilling equipment

Safety-driven operations

Valid Saskatchewan 5A licence

Crane operator certification asset

Education

Equipment operator training/certification

Job description

Forbes Bros. Group of Companies delivers transmission, distribution, substation, and related power infrastructure projects across Canada and the United States.

Our work spans field construction, project delivery, operations, and corporate support in an environment where safety, execution, and reliability matter.

Position Summary

Taking direction from the Foreman or Lead Hand, this position is responsible for ensuring the safe operation of equipment and completing daily pre-use and post-use maintenance and safety checks. The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating equipment in a safe and appropriate manner in accordance with occupational health and safety legislation, applicable construction regulations, company policies, and site procedures.

Core Responsibilities

Field Safety Leadership & Compliance

• Ensuring safety and quality are at the forefront of every task
• Operate all heavy equipment in a safe and efficient manner according to all relevant legislation, policies, and procedures
• Perform daily pre-use and post-use safety and maintenance checks
• Ensure heavy equipment is safely and securely stored

Equipment Operation to Include

• Hydrovac equipment
• Directional drilling equipment
• Locating equipment
• Loaders
• Dozers
• Telehandlers
• Graders
• Excavators
• Lodrils
• Vibratory hammers
• Other equipment as required

Daily Responsibilities

• Able to follow site plans
• Work closely with the construction team to understand tasks and provide feedback
• Understand and have knowledge of equipment operating manuals
• Clean heavy equipment as scheduled and/or required
• Advise the Fleet Foreman of any requirements for maintenance or repairs
• Participate in routine maintenance, cleaning, greasing, etc.
• Ensure equipment inspection, maintenance, and daily inspection documentation is completed and up to date

Essential Requirements

Education & Experience

• Equipment operator training/certification appropriate to the equipment being operated
• 3-5 years of experience operating equipment, preferably including excavators, loaders, skid steers, and other construction or utility equipment
• Experience operating Hydrovac, directional drilling, locating, or other utility-related equipment is considered an asset
• Experience working on powerline, utility, transmission, civil construction, or related infrastructure projects is considered a strong asset
• Valid Saskatchewan Class 5A driver's licence required; Class 3A or Class 1A driver's licence highly preferred
• Applicable crane operator certification/licensing or lifting equipment training is considered an asset

Skills & Abilities

• Proven experience operating loaders, excavators, and skid steers
• Experience operating Hydrovac, directional drilling, locating equipment, telehandlers, graders, dozers, Lodrils, vibratory hammers, and other equipment is considered an asset
• Ability to read and follow site plans and work safely in active construction environments
• Strong understanding of equipment operating manuals, inspections, and preventative maintenance requirements
• Experience supporting powerline, transmission, utility, civil construction, or related infrastructure projects is considered an asset
• Ability to work effectively as part of a construction crew while maintaining a strong safety focus

Company Commitment

Forbes Bros. Group of Companies and its affiliated entities are committed to providing a respectful and accessible recruitment process.

Employment is subject to the requirements of the applicable role, location, project, and employing entity. Depending on the position, this may include verification of work authorization, background screening, driver abstract, drug and alcohol screening, credential verification, client/site access requirements, and other pre-employment conditions permitted by applicable law.

Applicants who require accommodation during the recruitment process are encouraged to contact the recruitment team.