Hydrovac Operator

Valard Group of Companies; Calgary; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A utility contracting firm in Calgary is seeking experienced Hydrovac Operators to join their team. The successful candidates will be responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of hydrovac units, adherence to safety standards, and providing excellent customer service. Candidates should have 5-7 years of relevant experience, including at least 2 years operating Hydrovac equipment, and a valid Class 1 or 3 driver’s license.

Benefits

Comprehensive total rewards package

Employee benefits including RRSP matching

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience, including at least 2 years operating Hydrovac equipment.
• Experience in the utility or construction industry.
• Ability to manage equipment maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Perform safe operation and maintenance of hydrovac units.
• Adhere to safety standards and complete safety training.
• Accurately submit daily reports and documentation.

Skills

Hydrovac excavation techniques

Operating tri-drive vehicles

Interpreting utility locates

Communicating effectively

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Education

Valid Class 1 or 3 driver’s license

Job description

We are currently looking to addHydrovac Operators to our growing team, based in Calgary, AB.

Reporting to the Hydrovac Supervisor, the Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the safe operation and routine maintenance of hydrovac units on job sites throughout the Calgary region. This position requires a strong commitment to safety, operational excellence, and delivering high-quality service to clients.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Safe Operation of Equipment
   • Perform hydrovac excavation duties safely around underground utilities using Foremost 1200s, Tornado F4s, and Rival T7s
   • Operate tri-drive vehicles and 18-speed manual transmissions in a safe and efficient manner
   • Conduct pre-trip inspections and equipment checks in accordance with company procedures
   • Use bonding and grounding equipment appropriately and consistently
2. Compliance and Safety
   • Adhere to all applicable safety standards, including Alberta OH&S regulations and Valard SOPs
   • Wear appropriate PPE at all times on-site
   • Complete required client and site-specific safety training
   • Remain alert to potential site hazards and take proactive steps to mitigate them
3. Documentation and Reporting
   • Accurately complete and submit daily reports, inspections, and other required documentation
   • Read and interpret utility locates, drawings, and schematics to ensure safe and precise excavation
   • Demonstrate knowledge of traditional and advanced locate methods (e.g., ALA)
4. Customer and Team Relations
   • Provide courteous, professional service as a representative of the Valard brand
   • Communicate effectively with clients, supervisors, and team members
   • Support and mentor less experienced team members, including operators and swampers
   • Collaborate with coworkers to ensure safe and efficient site operations
5. Equipment Maintenance
   • Perform basic preventative maintenance and troubleshooting of hydrovac units
   • Maintain cleanliness and readiness of tools and vehicles
   • Report maintenance issues or mechanical concerns promptly

• Proven knowledge of hydrovac excavation techniques and equipment
• Skilled in operating tri-drive vehicles and manual transmissions
• Ability to interpret utility locates and read technical schematics
• Familiar with bonding, grounding, and confined space entry protocols
• Strong safety focus and knowledge of applicable regulations
• Capable of working independently under physically demanding conditions
• Effective communication and teamwork skills
• High attention to detail and strong customer service orientation
• Mechanical aptitude for minor repairs and maintenance
• Minimum of 5–7 years of relevant experience, including at least 2 years operating Hydrovac equipment in the field
• Experience in the utility or construction industry
• Experience mentoring junior operators or working as part of a field operations team
• Valid Class 1 or 3 driver’s license with a clean driver’s abstract

We offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes base salary and a complete range of employee benefits, including an RRSP matching program, to ensure you have the tools necessary to manage, maintain, and improve your health and wellbeing.

About our Business

Valard Construction LP is Canada’s premier utility contractor providing comprehensive EPC+ (engineering, procurement, construction) and maintenance services to utilities, independent power producers, mining, oil and gas industries and rural electric associations. We have the capabilities, knowledge, and resources to take on any project, any size, any complexity, anywhere. We are also part of Quanta Services, the largest electrical power contractor in North America.

Valard Construction is an equal opportunity employer.

Learn more

Visit us atwww.valard.comand connect with us on our social media channels for our latest news, employee stories, community activities, and other updates.

* Depending on qualifications, the successful candidate may be offered a position at a more appropriate level.

* Applicants must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.

* Valard Construction is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability. Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is available on request during the recruitment process.