Excavator Operator

Total Site Supplies; Calgary; On-site; CAD 55,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Total Site Supplies, Calgary-based earthworks contractor, is seeking an Excavator Operator focused on basement excavation and DSSP site servicing for residential and commercial lots. The ideal candidate will take drawings, establish grades, and execute work independently, with potential to advance into lead operator roles.

You will work with well-maintained equipment on established builder projects, prioritizing safety and quality on site.

Qualifications

• Experience reading and interpreting civil drawings to determine grades and elevations.
• Ability to plan, sequence, and lead excavation and servicing work independently.
• Experience mentoring and training junior operators and labourers on site safety and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Excavate basements and foundations to design elevations and grades.
• Perform DSSP trenching and install storm, sanitary, and water services.
• Read site plans, cut sheets and grade stakes to guide work.
• Set up and operate laser systems to verify grade throughout the job.
• Complete backfill, rough and fine grading to specified tolerances.
• Coordinate with foremen, pipe crews, surveyors and truck drivers for productivity.
• Mentor newer operators and labourers on grade, plan reading and safe practices.

Skills

Read civil drawings

Grade setting

Laser level operation

Self-directed

Mentoring

Safety leadership

Team coordination

Tools

Laser level systems

Job description

Excavator Operator: Residential & Commercial Excavation and Site Servicing

Company: Total Site Supplies

Employment Type: Full-Time

Pay: $40to $48/hr, based on experience

About Us

Total Site Supplies is a Calgary-based earthworks and site services contractor working with builders such as Axiom Builders, Mattamy Homes, and Casa Ridge Properties. Our Earthworks division delivers excavation, demolition, grading, and underground utility work across Calgary and surrounding areas. We are COR certified and continuing to grow our field team.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Excavator Operator with a strong background in basement excavation and DSSP site servicing on residential and commercial lots. This role is focused on building sites rather than road or highway construction. The ideal candidate is a self-directed professional who can take a set of drawings, establish their own grade, and plan and execute the work independently. As our team grows, this operator will be expected to develop into a leadership role, mentoring newer operators and labourers on site.

Key Responsibilities

• Excavate basements and foundations to design elevations, including over-dig, footing grades, and tight-access infill lots
• Perform DSSP trenching and installation, including storm, sanitary, and water services, manholes, and service connections
• Read and interpret civil drawings, site plans, cut sheets, and grade stakes
• Set up and operate single and dual-slope laser systems and verify grade throughout the work
• Complete backfill, rough grading, and fine grading to specified tolerances
• Plan and sequence excavation and servicing work independently, making sound decisions on site without the need for close supervision
• Identify problems early and bring forward solutions, not just concerns
• Mentor and train newer operators and labourers on grade, plan reading, laser use, and safe excavation practices
• Operate safely around existing structures, neighbouring properties, live utilities, and active crews
• Maintain safe trenching and excavation practices, including trench box use and utility clearances
• Coordinate with foremen, pipe crews, surveyors, and truck drivers to support productivity
• Lead by example in safety, productivity, and quality of work
• Complete pre-trip inspections, FLHAs, equipment logs, and timesheets accurately

Assets

• CSTS, First Aid, Ground Disturbance II, Confined Space
• Familiarity with City of Calgary servicing standards

What We Offer

• Consistent work with established builder clients
• Well-maintained equipment
• A clear path into lead operator or foreman roles for the right candidate