Excavator Operator - Shallow Utilities

Volker Stevin; Calgary; On-site; CAD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer-paid benefits

RRSP contributions

Long-term careers

Seasonal rehire loyalty

Professional growth

Training courses

Job summary

Volker Stevin in Canada is seeking a Backhoe/Excavator Operator – Shallow Utilities to join a crew supporting URD installations. You will operate equipment safely on trenching, digging and material handling, in congested urban environments, following project specs and safety standards.

Requirements include 3+ years of backhoe/excavator experience around live utilities, ability to read site plans, and a valid Class 5 driver's license with clean abstract.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience operating backhoes/excavators in underground utility or civil construction.
• Experience around live utilities, deep excavations and trenching operations.
• Understanding of trench safety, shoring, and working around live services.
• Exposure to 4-party (URD) installations is an asset.
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with a clean abstract.

Responsibilities

• Operate backhoes/excavators safely and efficiently on shallow utility installations.
• Perform trenching, digging, backfilling, and material handling with accuracy.
• Read site plans, locate utilities, and follow supervisor directions.
• Maintain equipment, conduct inspections, and report hazards to the crew.

Skills

Backhoe/Excavator operation

Safety-conscious

Team collaboration

Education

Valid Class 5 Driver’s License

Job description

At Volker Stevin, our employees are key to the success of every project, contributing to the legacy we build within the communities we serve. If you're ready to take on a challenging, hands-on role where safety, teamwork, and growth are paramount, we encourage you to join our dynamic team. Together, we’ll continue to set the standard for excellence in construction.

Reporting to the Foreman, the Backhoe/Excavator Operator – Shallow Utilities is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of backhoes/excavators as part of a crew supporting 4-party (URD) shallow underground utility installation, including power, gas, and telecommunications services. This role plays a critical part in excavation, trenching, and material handling activities, ensuring work is completed safely, accurately, and in alignment with project specifications and company expectations.

How You’ll Add Value

• Actively contribute to the safety culture, promoting a safe and productive work environment
• Operate backhoes/excavators safely and efficiently to support shallow utility (4-party/URD) installation
• Complete trenching, digging, backfilling, and material handling activities for shallow underground utilities and service lines
• Excavate safely around live utilities in congested urban or residential environments with a high level of accuracy and care
• Perform precise trenching for shallow installations, ensuringproper depth, alignment, and grade
• Support installation activities including trench preparation, conduit placement, bedding, and backfill in coordination with ground crews
• Follow crew direction for craning materials, placing gravel, and final grading
• Maintain high production while minimizing rework in tight working conditions
• Read and interpret site plans, utility locates, grade stakes, and supervisor directions to meet job requirements
• Collaborate closely with labourers, operators, and foremen to ensure efficient, safe, and productive workflow
• Operate in and around active roadways and tight subdivisions, maintaining situational awareness at all times
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance
• Identify and communicate potential hazards, underground conflicts, or safety concerns to the crew and supervisors
• Maintain proper housekeeping of equipment and work areas
• Follow all safety, environmental, and company policies and procedures

What You Bring

• 3+ years of experience operating backhoe/excavators in underground utility or civil construction environments
• Proven experience working around live utilities, deep excavations and trenching operations
• Strong understanding of deep excavations, trench safety, shoring and working around live services
• Exposure to or experience with 4-party (URD) installations (e.g., ENMAX, ATCO, TELUS, Rogers) is considered an asset
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with a Driver’s Abstract showing no more than 6 demerits and no major infractions

Note: Pre-employment Drug and Alcohol Testing and Fit for Work Testing will be required.

How We Make It Count

As part of the Volker Stevin group of companies, we invest in our people by providing industry-leading support, training, and benefits that help you build a rewarding career and a strong future for your family.

• 100% Employer-Paid Benefits:Enjoy industry-leading comprehensive health and wellness coverage
• RRSP: Build your future with employer RRSP contributions for eligible employees
• Long-Term Careers: Join a team with an average tenure of 7.3 years across all roles
• Seasonal Rehire Loyalty: 44% of seasonal employees return year after year
• Professional Growth: Access 500+ training courses in safety, upskilling, and leadership development
• Unlimited Potential: Be part of a company that supports your goals and helps you succeed

Our Commitment to You

Safety Isn’t Just a Priority—It’s a Value. Safety is woven into the fabric of who we are and how we operate. It’s not a box we check off; it’s a commitment that guides every decision we make, every process we implement, and every project we undertake. Because at the end of the day, when we say safety is a value, we mean it’s a promise we make to our people, families, and the communities we serve.

True to Our Word, True to Our People.

Our culture is grounded in humility and authenticity, with a deep commitment to family. We believe in supporting each other, no matter the role or title. When we say we care, we mean it—our actions match our words. Everyone is empowered, valued, and respected, because being 'true to our word' means being 'true to our people.'

Interesting Projects and Skill-Building Work.

Volker Stevin is known for its ability to take on complex projects of all sizes, from large-scale infrastructure builds to specialized niche developments to highway maintenance and more. This diversity in project scope and complexity means that our employees have access to new opportunities across our family of companies that challenge them to think creatively and develop new skills.

Join a Team Where People Truly Matter

Since 1978, Volker Stevin has been dedicated to enhancing communities and connecting people with progress. As part of the VolkerWessels family, we specialize in civil construction and rehabilitation, highway maintenance, civil works, and bridge construction across Western Canada and the northwestern United States.

We don’t just build and maintain infrastructure—we create connections that shape the future. Every employee plays an essential role in our success, fostering a collaborative environment where safety comes first, people are our greatest asset, and exceptional performance enables us to build lasting legacies in the places we call home.