Mainline Excavator Operator Underground Utilities

Firma Contracting is hiring an experienced Mainline Excavator Operator to support underground utility, water and sewer construction projects across Edmonton and surrounding areas.

We are looking for an operator with hands-on experience working alongside pipe crews, particularly on utility rehabilitation and replacement projects in developed residential and commercial areas.

Firma offers competitive wages, opportunities for advancement and training, work-life balance, and the potential for continued work throughout the winter. Our rehabilitation projects also allow us to maintain more consistent operations with less weather-related downtime.

Hourly Wage: $40–$46/hour, based on experience

Key Responsibilities

• Operate excavators on mainline water, sewer and underground utility projects


• Perform excavation for utility rehabilitation and replacement work


• Work safely around existing underground infrastructure in residential and commercial areas


• Coordinate closely with pipe crews during excavation and pipe installation


• Safely lower pipe and other materials into excavations using appropriate rigging procedures


• Operate equipment around ground personnel and other machinery while maintaining appropriate clearances


• Follow applicable excavation, trenching and ground disturbance requirements


• Maintain strong production while meeting project safety and quality expectations


• Complete daily equipment inspections and report maintenance or repair requirements


• Follow Firma’s safety policies, procedures and site-specific requirements


• Maintain professional communication with Foremen, Superintendents and field crews

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience as a Mainline Excavator Operator


• Previous underground utility rehabilitation or replacement experience is required


• Experience with water and sewer infrastructure


• Strong understanding of safe excavation and trenching practices


• Ability to work independently while following direction from the Foreman or Superintendent


• Strong communication and coordination skills when working with ground crews


• Safety-focused approach to equipment operation


• Experience operating additional heavy equipment is considered an asset

Required Certifications

• CSTS 2020


• WHMIS 2015


• Ground Disturbance Level 2