Job Description

HYBRID TELECOM CONSTRUCTION

Job Title:

Backhoe Operator

Reports to:

OSP Construction Manager

Last Reviewed:

November 2025

Overview

At

HTC

, our Backhoe Operators play a critical role in building the physical backbone of Alberta's next-generation telecom infrastructure. This position isn't just about running equipment -- it's about precision, safety, and efficiency on the job site. From daylighting and trenching to setting vaults and restoring ground, your work directly impacts the quality and reliability of our fiber builds.

We're looking for operators who take pride in their craft, work well in tight field teams, and know that production and safety go hand in hand.

Responsibilities

Field Operations

Safely operate and maintain a

John Deere 310SL or 410L backhoe

, and assist with mini-excavators or other support equipment. Complete

trenching and excavation

for conduit, manholes, and pull boxes to spec -- in both rural and urban rights-of-way. Read and interpret

construction drawings, locate maps, and staking sheets

, ensuring accuracy and minimal rework. Execute

over-digs, hot digs, and daylighting

with extreme care around active utilities.

Safety & Compliance

Follow all

Ground Disturbance Level II

and

COR safety standards

. Conduct daily FLHAs and equipment inspections before starting work. Maintain a clean and organized work area -- no shortcuts, no exceptions. Stop work and report immediately if conditions become unsafe.

Equipment Care

Take full ownership of your machine -- perform routine maintenance, fluid checks, and grease points daily. Identify and report potential mechanical issues early to avoid downtime. Restore all disturbed areas to pre-work condition; leave the site clean and professional.

Teamwork & Communication

Work hand-in-hand with drill crews, plow operators, and foremen to keep the build moving efficiently. Communicate clearly with locators, inspectors, and project managers on progress and obstacles. Contribute to a strong, safety-first crew culture built on respect and accountability.

Qualifications

Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent.

Certification:

Recognized heavy equipment operator training; Ground Disturbance Level II preferred.

Experience:

Minimum 2 years operating a backhoe or similar machinery; telecom, utility, or civil fiber experience an asset.

Skills:

Proficient in reading prints and interpreting utility locates. Strong mechanical aptitude. Awareness of hazards in live utility environments.

Attributes:

Reliable and self-directed with a strong sense of ownership. Team-oriented and calm under pressure. Physically capable of long field days in variable conditions.

HTC Field Values in Action

Integrity:

Do the job right -- no guessing, no hiding mistakes.

Respect:

Back up your crew and respect the environment you're working in.

Professionalism:

Represent HTC positively on every site and with every client.

Adaptability:

Handle changing conditions and unexpected challenges without missing a beat.

Pride:

Treat your trench, your backfill, and your restoration as a reflection of your skill.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Excavation Precision:

Trenches meet design depth and alignment within 5%.

Safety:

Zero recordable incidents or near misses.

Equipment Reliability:

Fewer than 3 unplanned service incidents per year.

Production:

95% of assigned tasks completed on or ahead of schedule.

Team Feedback:

Positive collaboration rating from foreman and project management.

What Success Looks Like at HTC

You show up prepared, know your machine, read the ground, and anticipate the next move. You protect utilities, your crew, and the public. Your sites are tidy, your work is accurate, and your backhoe runs every day because you take care of it. When you're on the job, things get done safely and efficiently -- that's the HTC standard.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35.00-$45.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance On-site parking Paid time off Profit sharing Vision care
Work Location: In person