Equipment Operator IVa (Backhoe)

City of Vancouver; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 75,000 - 91,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Vancouver is seeking an Equipment Operator IVa (Backhoe) in Vancouver to support the Engineering Services team. The role operates under supervision, performs maintenance and excavation tasks, and adheres to safety and regulatory guidelines.

Shifts are 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday, with potential shift adjustments as required. Applicants should have Grade 10 or equivalent, at least 6 months of backhoe experience, and completion of Backhoe Operator Training.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of excavating and loading procedures and safe operating practices.
• safer working practices on congested worksites.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and utility information.

Responsibilities

• Assist crew with maintenance and construction duties.
• Complete pre-trip inspection reports for City of Vancouver vehicles.
• Operate backhoe safely under supervision and adapt to site conditions.
• Maintain clean and functional equipment and assist with repairs as needed.
• Communicate clearly with supervisors, co-workers and the public.

Skills

Excavating procedures

Safety rules & regulations

Reading engineering drawings

Communication & teamwork

Operation of heavy equipment

Education

Grade 10

Backhoe Operator Training

Heavy equipment training (asset)

Tools

Backhoe operation

Job description

Main Purpose & Function

The Equipment Operator IVa (Backhoe) works under the supervision and direction of a Site Supervisor and/or Equipment Guide.

The Equipment Operator IVa (Backhoe) must operate in accordance to Branch Safe Operating Procedures and with WorkSafe BC rules and regulations. The successful candidate must also exercise considerable independent judgement in adapting standard and safe operating techniques to a variety of difficult and complex work situations.

The regular work schedule will be from 7:00 am- 3:30 pm, Monday to Friday. The successful candidate may be required to adjust shifts as operationally required.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist the crew in the performance of a variety of maintenance and construction duties.
• Complete pre trip inspection reports as required by the City of Vancouver and CVSE (Commercial Vehicle Safety & Enforcement).
• Keep and submit accurate time slips daily and written records.
• Effectively carry out verbal and written instructions.
• Clean, service, perform minor repairs and routine maintenance to the equipment and accessories, and other duties as required.
• As a representative of the City, interact with supervisors, co-workers and members of the public in an effective, courteous and respectful manner.
• Excavate and load material.
• Ensure the cab of the backhoe is kept clean and tidy.
• Place and remove various wooden and modular shoring
• Backfill and operate compaction equipment and other hydraulic attachments
• Operate the backhoe in a safe, consistent, and efficient manner.
• Read and understand utility package.
• Perform other related tasks as required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Grade 10 or an equivalent combination of experience and training. If grade 10 is not completed, Superintendents will assess an equivalent combination of experience and training as measured by night school, City courses, workshops, and seminars.
• Minimum of 6 months (1040 hours) experience as an Equipment Operator IVa (Backhoe) within the last 3 years.
• Successful completion of the Backhoe Operator Training course and/or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Heavy equipment operator training from a skilled trades recognized post-secondary institution would be an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge of excavating and loading procedures; proper lifting techniques and the precautions necessary in avoiding accidents when operating heavy equipment.
• Knowledge and understanding of all rules and regulations for proper work site safety, such as traffic control, confined space, shoring, etc.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude of an appropriate degree to safely operate, maintain, and make minor repairs; and arrange for servicing and repairs for backhoes.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, effectively and cooperatively in writing and verbally with coworkers, contractors, business owners and members of the public
• Ability to work from engineering drawings and sketches and to fully understand the design and utility information contained.
• Ability to follow supervisor's directions.
• Demonstrated ability to assist crew(s) with all work functions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills are essential along with the ability to create and maintain a functional team and cooperative environment among staff and the public.
• Demonstrated work habits over the last three years.

Drivers License and Record Checks

• A current and valid Class 5 BC Driver’s License or higher and a Satisfactory National Safety Code driving record
  • 5 years accumulation of no more than 9 points, not in excess of 3 points per single year
  • 3 years accumulation of no more than 1 preventable work related driving or equipment operating accident in any single year
  • Employees who do not demonstrate a satisfactory driving record will have their application reviewed in more detail
• Candidates must attach the following records and satisfy the City’s driving requirements to be considered for this role:
  • Copy of your five-year ICBC Commercial Driver’s Abstract (N Print) directly from ICBC dated within 14days of this posting
  • Copy of your five-year ICBC Driver’s Claims History directly from ICBC within 14days of this posting
  • If you have less than fiveyears driving experience in BC, a request must be made for out of province/country abstract and claims history

Business Unit/Department: Engineering Services

Affiliation: CUPE 1004 N/Pks

Employment Type: Regular Full Time

Position Start Date: September 2026

Salary Information: Pay Grade GR-345: $39.84 per hour

Number of Positions: 2

Application Close: August 25, 2026

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all gendersand persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more aboutour commitment to diversity and inclusion .

The City of Vancouver acknowledges that it is situated on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation).More about unceded traditional territories