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 Mainline Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of excavators as part of a mainline crew supporting deep underground utility installation, including water, sanitary sewer, and storm systems. 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
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Actively contribute to the safety culture, promoting a safe and productive work environment
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Operate excavators safely and efficiently as part of a mainline crew performing deep excavations for watermain, sanitary sewer, and storm installation
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Complete trenching, digging, backfilling, and material handling activities in support of deep underground utilities
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Excavate safely around existing utilities, structures, and live services with a high level of accuracy and care
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Perform precise cuts for deep trenches, ensuring proper depth, alignment, and slope in accordance with grade requirements
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Support pipe installation activities, including trench preparation, bedding, and backfill in coordination with pipe layers and labourers
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Work in and around trench boxes, shoring systems, and deep excavations, maintaining strict adherence to safety standards
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Read and interpret site plans, grade stakes, and directions from supervisors to meet job requirements
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Collaborate closely with pipe crews, labourers, and foremen to ensure efficient, safe, and productive workflow
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Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance
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Identify and communicate potential hazards, ground conditions, or safety concerns to the crew and supervisors
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Maintain proper housekeeping of equipment and work areas
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Follow all safety, environmental, and company policies and procedures
What You Bring
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3+ years of experience operating excavators in underground utility or civil construction environments
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Proven experience working around live utilities, deep excavations and trenching operations
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Strong understanding of deep excavations, trench safety, shoring and working around live services
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Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with a Driver’s Abstract showing no more than 6 demerits and no major infractions
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Willing to travel and work out of town for short, fixed-term periods, as needed
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.
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100% Employer-Paid Benefits: Enjoy industry-leading comprehensive health and wellness coverage
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RRSP: Build your future with employer RRSP contributions for eligible employees
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Long-Term Careers: Join a team with an average tenure of 7.3 years across all roles
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Seasonal Rehire Loyalty: 44% of seasonal employees return year after year
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Professional Growth: Access 500+ training courses in safety, upskilling, and leadership development
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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.
