Hydrovac Operator

We are currently looking to add Hydrovac 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

• 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
• 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
• 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 (, ALA)
• 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
• 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

Requirements

• 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

Benefits

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.