Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) Operator

Black & McDonald Limited; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Black & McDonald Limited is expanding its Edmonton Utilities team with an opening for an HDD Operator. This role is pivotal for the safe and efficient installation of underground utilities, requiring daily operations of directional drills.

Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 5 years' experience, a valid Alberta Drivers License, and the ability to work collaboratively while emphasizing safety and equipment care. Successful applicants must be willing to travel for work if necessary.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience operating a Horizontal Directional Drill Rig.
• Class 1 (or 3) with Air Brakes and valid Alberta Drivers License.
• Must hold a valid CSTS/Ground Disturbance ticket.

Responsibilities

• Operate directional drill for underground utilities installation safely.
• Read and interpret blueprints, stakes, and signage.
• Perform pre-operation safety inspections and maintenance tasks.

Skills

Change Orientation

Effective Communication

Continuous Learning

Customer Focus

Accountability

Problem Solving

Teamwork

Respect for Diversity

Education

High School diploma

Tools

Horizontal Directional Drill Rig

Vermeer D20 x 22 Series 3

Vermeer 24X40

Job description

ABOUT THIS CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Black & McDonald’s Edmonton Utilities team is growing! If you are committed and collaborative professional looking to contribute to a hard‑working, innovative team, this opportunity is for you.

Reporting to the Project Manager, the HDD Operator plays a key role in the safe and efficient installation of underground utilities. This position is responsible for operating directional drills while maintaining a strong focus on safety, equipment care, and accuracy. The HDD Operator ensures all drilling activities are completed specification by interpreting site plans, coordinating with crew members, and performing essential pre‑operation inspections and maintenance tasks.

Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Safely operate the directional drill in the installation of underground utilities
• Operate directional drill in residential areas
• Responsible for the safe operation and basic maintenance of the organization’s equipment
• Read and interpret blueprints, stakes, and signage
• Coordinate and organize daily activities of with drivers and operators
• Performing and logging pre‑operation safety inspections for fueling and greasing the directional drill in order to maintain safe and optimal operation
• May perform general labour duties, as required

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

• Change Orientation (open to change and the ability to identify where it is needed and how to make it happen)
• Communicates Effectively (verbally and in writing)
• Continuous Learning (ongoing effort to learn and contribute to the learnings of others)
• Customer Focus (understands the needs and perspectives of both internal and external customers)
• Holds Self and Others Accountable (takes personal responsibility to meet commitments)
• Problem Solving and Innovation (ability to approach problems logically and seek innovative solutions)
• Teamwork and Collaboration (works cooperatively and collaboratively with others)
• Values and Respects Others (encourages and supports diversity)

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High School diploma

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience working in the construction industry operating an (HDD) Horizontal Directional Drill Rig, specifically a Directional Drill Rig – Vermeer D20 x 22 Series 3, Vermeer 24X40

SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Class 1 (or 3) with Air Brakes
• Possess a valid, Alberta Drivers License and a clean, 3 year driving abstract
• Must hold a valid CSTS/Ground Disturbance ticket
• Willing to travel out of town if required
• Possess personal attributes which include being safety conscious, problem‑solving abilities, high attention to detail, adaptability, ability to work independently, and takes initiative
• Physical fitness and stamina to handle manual labour and work in various weather conditions

Construction Safety Certifications including the following are considered assets.

• Confined Space Awareness/Rescue
• Fall Arrest
• WHMIS
• First Aid

All applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada. Successful candidates may be required to undergo a pre‑access drug and alcohol test as a condition of employment.

Black & McDonald welcomes and encourages applications from persons with accessibility accommodation requirements. Accessibility accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process.