Hydrovac Operator
Company Overview
PTL Group is a Calgary-based utility construction contractor specializing in Hydrovac Excavation and Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) for the installation and maintenance of underground utility infrastructure, including natural gas, electrical power, and telecommunications.
PTL has built its reputation on Safety, Efficiency, and Reliability. Our experienced management team and industry partners successfully deliver projects ranging from routine utility installations to complex infrastructure construction. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of health, safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.
Due to continued growth and increasing demand for our services, PTL has recently expanded its Hydrovac fleet with four new units. We are actively seeking motivated individuals who want to build a long-term career with a company that invests in its employees, equipment, and future growth.
Position Summary
PTL is seeking an experienced Hydrovac Operator to join our growing utility construction team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe operation of hydrovac equipment to support utility construction, utility locating, daylighting, trenching, and excavation activities involving gas, power, telecommunications, and other underground infrastructure.
Hydrovac Operations
- Safely operate hydrovac equipment in accordance with company policies, manufacturer specifications, and applicable regulations.
- Perform daylighting, potholing, slot trenching, and excavation activities around existing underground utilities.
- Support utility construction projects involving telecommunications, electrical power, natural gas, water, and other underground infrastructure.
- Assist field crews with excavation and utility exposure activities as required.
- Establish and maintain safe excavation zones around buried facilities.
Equipment Inspection & Maintenance
- Conduct daily pre-trip, post-trip, and equipment inspections.
- Identify and report mechanical deficiencies, safety concerns, and maintenance requirements.
- Perform routine maintenance and cleaning to ensure equipment remains in safe working condition.
- Maintain hydrovac units, tools, and support equipment in a clean and professional manner.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all PTL safety policies, procedures, and client-specific requirements.
- Ensure proper grounding and bonding procedures are established where required.
- Participate in daily hazard assessments, tailgate meetings, and job safety analyses.
- Comply with Alberta Ground Disturbance regulations and utility owner requirements.
- Maintain awareness of overhead and underground hazards at all times.
- Complete all required safety documentation accurately and on time.
Site Support
- Load, unload, and transport equipment, tools, and materials.
- Assist with site setup, traffic control, and general labour duties when required.
- Maintain clean, organized, and professional work sites.
- Remove debris and excess materials from excavation areas.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by Supervisors or Project Managers.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 1 year experience operating a hydrovac truck in a utility construction environment.
- Valid Alberta Class 3 Driver's Licence (minimum) with air brakes endorsement.
- Clean Driver's Abstract with no major convictions.
- Experience working around underground utility infrastructure.
- Strong understanding of safe excavation and utility exposure practices.
- Knowledge of Alberta Ground Disturbance requirements.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety.
Required Certifications
- CSTS 2020
- WHMIS
- Ground Disturbance Level II
Preferred Certifications
- Standard First Aid & CPR
- H2S Alive
- Confined Space Entry & Monitor
- Equipotential Grounding & Bonding
- Fall Protection
Skills & Competencies
- Strong safety awareness and hazard recognition.
- Ability to interpret utility locate markings and site drawings.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced construction environment.
- Dependable, professional, and detail-oriented.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs (23 kg) on a regular basis.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and perform physically demanding tasks throughout the workday.
- Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
- Ability to work in and around trenches, excavations, confined spaces, and active construction sites.
- Ability to work extended hours, overtime, and occasional weekends as required.
- Capable of wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods.
Compensation & Benefits
Pay: $35.00 - $43.00 per hour (based on experience and qualifications), plus an hourly premium for operating the hydrovac solo, without a swamper.
Travel
- Travel to various project sites throughout Alberta may be required.
Work Location: Calgary, Alberta
Expected Start Date: Immediate
Pay: $35.00-$43.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company events
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Vision care
Experience:
- Hydrovac Operator (Utility Construction): 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Class 1 or 3 License with Clean Abstract (required)
Work Location: In person
