HydroVac Operator

Why Join GS Construction? 

You will work with one of the longest-serving general contractors in the Edmonton area who specialize in water and sewer rehabilitation and new land development. Since 1974, GS Construction has centered its mission on safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.  

You will thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment that emphasizes integrity, hard work, and community involvement. With us, you will find numerous opportunities for personal and professional development as a part of an industry leading team. Our structure ensures that every business function supports a field-focused mentality, allowing you to execute with Safety, Quality and Efficiency.   

Join us if you’re eager to embrace challenges, advance your career, and grow in a company that values who you are as much as the contributions you make. 

 

What We Offer You 

• Safety First: Emphasis on working safely and team well-being.

• Competitive Wages: Including overtime.

• Skill-Based Adjustments: Wage increases based on skills and experience.

• Bonuses: Eligible for job bonuses, year-end profit sharing, & safety awards.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Access to full benefits with no waiting period.

• Modern Equipment: Work with the latest tools and vehicles.

• Growth Potential: Upward advancement based on performance.

• Training Programs: Opportunities for professional development.

• Positive Environment: A safe and supportive workplace culture.

 

Role Summary 

As a Hydrovac Operator, you are a key player in safe excavation, using specialized high-pressure water and vacuum technology to expose underground infrastructure without the risk of utility strikes. Your precision and focus ensure that ground disturbance is handled safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental standards. 

 

In this role you will be responsible for the following: 

• Hydrovac Operations & Daylighting – Expertly run the wand to loosen soil and daylight sensitive utilities. You must demonstrate the ability to pressure down when working around pipelines to ensure you do not blow the coating off or damage the infrastructure.

• Site Safety & Electrical Hazards – Set up safe work perimeters, including the use of grounding mats when working near or around power lines.

• Maneuvering & Precision Driving – Safely navigate the unit in tight spaces, including backing into alleys and congested urban areas. Maintain constant awareness of overhead hazards (trees, lines, and structures) when moving or raising the boom.

• Swamping Duties & Supervision – Perform all swamping duties independently, including dragging and connecting heavy vacuum hoses, managing the suction tube, and site cleanup. When a swamper is assigned, provide clear direction and spotting instructions.

• Field Coordination & Communication – Interpret utility locate marks and work closely with site foremen to identify hazards. Adjust water pressure and vacuum flow based on soil conditions and specific utility requirements.

• Waste Management & Disposal – Transport and dispose of slurry at designated facilities, ensuring all loads are dumped safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.

• Pre-Trip & Post-Trip Inspections – Perform daily mechanical inspections on the truck and hydrovac system (pump, boiler, and vacuum seals), maintaining accurate logs as per regulatory requirements.

• Equipment Maintenance – Take ownership of equipment maintenance by flushing pumps, cleaning filters, greasing moving parts, and performing minor field repairs to minimize downtime.

Qualifications 

• Valid Class 3 driver’s license (at minimum) with Air Brake (Q) Endorsement and a clean drivers abstract.

• Minimum 3 years of experience operating Hydrovac equipment on active construction sites.

• Ability to work independently and lead a swamper when assigned.

• Ground Disturbance Level II, H2S Alive, First Aid, and CSTS certifications an asset.

• Proven experience working around high-pressure pipelines & energized power lines.

• Strong mechanical aptitude to troubleshoot high-pressure systems in the field.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements  

• Comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs and handling heavy vacuum hoses and water wands for extended periods.

• High level of physical stamina: Expect frequent entry/exit from the cab and manual labor in all weather conditions.

• Work is performed on uneven terrain with moving equipment and open excavations; safety awareness is critical.

 

What it takes to Succeed  

• Willing to learn, promote, and implement GS Construction's culture, core values, and "GS Way" processes.

• Ability to manage tasks, operate effectively, and remain focused in high-pressure, fast-changing environments.

• Enjoys problem-solving and thinking "outside the box" to develop innovative solutions for complex tasks.

• Openness to learning from others and collaborating on new ideas and approaches to improve efficiency and teamwork.

• Team-oriented with strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to collaborate effectively with crew members and leadership.

Note: We appreciate every application we receive, but we can only contact the candidates who are selected to move forward in the hiring process. 

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