Experienced Hydrovac Laborer / Swamper

GCS GROUP (GENERAL CONTRACTING SERVICES); Edmonton; On-site; CAD 25,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly wages

Overtime opportunities

Training and skills development

Career advancement opportunities

Safety-focused culture

Job summary

GCS General Contracting Services Inc. is seeking a Hydrovac Laborer / Swamper to join our Alberta team. You will support hydro-excavation projects, prepare sites, manage traffic, and assist Hydrovac Operators on active job sites.

The role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and physical endurance in outdoor work environments across municipal and industrial sites. Ideal candidates bring construction experience, a strong safety mindset, and a valid driver’s license; willingness to obtain CSTS 2020, WHMIS

Qualifications

• Experience in construction, utilities, civil works, oilfield services, or hydro-excavation (preferred but not required).
• Strong commitment to workplace health and safety on site.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a crew and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Valid Class 5 driver's license and reliable transportation to report to locations.
• Willingness to obtain CSTS 2020, WHMIS 2015, Ground Disturbance Level II, First Aid/CPR and Fall Protection.

Responsibilities

• Assist with hydro-excavation projects on commercial, municipal, utility, and industrial sites.
• Prepare work areas before excavation activities begin and manage traffic controls.
• Handle vacuum hoses and excavation equipment as directed by the Hydrovac Operator.
• Safely uncover and identify buried infrastructure and utility lines.
• Conduct equipment inspections and report mechanical concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of trucks, tools, and equipment.
• Complete hazard assessments, inspection forms, and required documentation.
• Load, secure, and transport equipment and supplies to project locations.
• Work collaboratively with crews, customers, subcontractors, and project stakeholders.
• Follow company procedures and applicable safety regulations.
• Assist with additional construction and labor tasks as required.

Skills

Construction experience

Teamwork

Safety-conscious

Manual labor

Valid driver's license

Education

CSTS 2020

WHMIS 2015

Ground Disturbance Level II

Standard First Aid with CPR

Fall Protection Certification

Job description

Hydrovac Laborer / Swamper

GCS General Contracting Services Inc.

Build Your Future with GCS

GCS General Contracting Services Inc. is proud to support Alberta's infrastructure industry through safe, reliable, and professional hydro-excavation services. We are currently seeking a motivated Hydrovac Laborer / Swamper to join our growing team.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands‑on work, thrive in outdoor environments, and are looking to develop a long‑term career in construction and utility services. No two days are the same, and every project presents new opportunities to learn and grow.

About the Role

As a Hydrovac Laborer / Swamper, you will work directly alongside experienced Hydrovac Operators to complete excavation projects safely and efficiently. Your duties will involve site preparation, utility exposure, equipment assistance, traffic management, and maintaining safe work practices on active job sites.

This role requires a strong work ethic, attention to safety, and the ability to perform physically demanding tasks in a team-oriented environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

You will assist with:

• Supporting hydro-excavation projects on commercial, municipal, utility, and industrial sites.
• Preparing work areas before excavation activities begin.
• Managing traffic control devices, barricades, signage, and pedestrian safety measures.
• Handling vacuum hoses and excavation equipment as directed by the Hydrovac Operator.
• Safely uncovering and identifying buried infrastructure and utility lines.
• Conducting equipment inspections and reporting mechanical concerns.
• Maintaining cleanliness and operational readiness of trucks, tools, and equipment.
• Completing daily hazard assessments, inspection forms, and other required documentation.
• Loading, securing, and transporting equipment and supplies to project locations.
• Working collaboratively with crews, customers, subcontractors, and project stakeholders.
• Following company procedures and all applicable safety regulations.
• Assisting with additional construction and labor tasks as required.

What We're Looking For

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Experience in construction, underground utilities, civil works, oilfield services, or hydro-excavation (preferred but not required).
• A strong commitment to workplace health and safety.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a crew.
• Physical fitness and the ability to perform repetitive manual labor.
• Dependability, punctuality, and a positive attitude.
• Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
• A valid Class 5 driver's license.
• A satisfactory driver's abstract.
• Reliable transportation to report to work locations.

Training & Certifications

Candidates should possess, or be willing to obtain:

• CSTS 2020
• WHMIS 2015
• Ground Disturbance Level II
• Standard First Aid with CPR
• Fall Protection Certification

The following are considered assets:

• Confined Space Entry
• Traffic Accommodation / Flagging Certification
• Utility Safety Training
• H2S Alive

Why Work With GCS?

We recognize that our employees are the foundation of our success. When you join GCS, you'll benefit from:

• Competitive hourly wages.
• Opportunities for overtime and additional earnings.
• Ongoing training and skills development.
• Career advancement opportunities within the organization.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• A company culture that prioritizes safety and respect.
• Exposure to a variety of projects across Alberta.

Work Environment

This position involves:

• Working outdoors in changing weather conditions.
• Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting throughout the workday.
• Occasional travel to project locations.
• Flexible schedules that may include evenings and weekends depending on operational needs.

Join a Team That Gets the Job Done

At GCS, we believe in developing great people, maintaining a strong safety culture, and delivering quality work for our clients. If you're ready to build valuable skills and grow your career in the hydro-excavation industry, we'd like to hear from you.