Heavy Plow Foreperson

WesTower Communications Ltd. • Spruce Grove, AB

14h • Onsite

About The Position

The Heavy Plow Foreperson is a highly specialized leadership role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy utility plow trains. This individual orchestrates the movement of large-scale equipment—including vibratory plows, dozers, and reel carriers—to execute long-haul fiber placement projects. Beyond standard crew supervision, this role requires deep expertise in route logistics, heavy equipment maintenance, and the unique ground-disturbance challenges associated with deep plowing in rural and remote environments.

Requirements

• Valid AB Class 5 driver’s license (Class 1 or 3 is highly preferred due to equipment mobilization requirements).
• Minimum 5–8 years of experience in utility construction with specific expertise in heavy plow operations.
• Demonstrated experience operating and managing heavy iron (e.g., D6/D8 Dozers, Vermeer/Ditch Witch Vibratory Plows, Crawler Carriers).
• Valid Ground Disturbance Level II certification.
• Deep understanding of rural ROW conditions, soil mechanics, and crossing methodologies (creeks, pipelines, roads).
• Mechanically inclined problem solver capable of troubleshooting hydraulic and mechanical issues in remote field settings.
• Ability to read and interpret long-haul construction prints and crossing profiles.
• Physically fit and able to work in rugged terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather (i.e., snow, rain, wind, etc.) if required.

Nice To Haves

• Class 1 or 3 driver's license

Responsibilities

• Directs the coordinated movement of the entire plow train, ensuring the lead dozers, plow units, and support vehicles operate in unison to maximize production footage while preventing cable damage.
• Proactively scouts the Right of Way (ROW) ahead of the train to identify terrain hazards, water crossings, and access points, ensuring the heavy equipment can navigate the path safely.
• Leads daily toolbox meetings with a specific focus on heavy equipment interaction zones; ensures all operators adhere to exclusion zones and spotter protocols.
• Coordinates the "feed" of the plow train, managing the logistics of cable reel delivery, fuel supply, and support equipment to minimize downtime.
• Continually monitors plow depth and ground conditions to ensure the cable is placed at specification, verifying proper backfill and restoration immediately following the installation.
• Reviews all utility locates and crossing agreements with extreme diligence, as heavy plowing carries high-consequence risks during ground disturbance.
• Oversees the daily maintenance and greasing of high-wear plow components (shakers, chutes, tracks), identifying mechanical issues before they cause catastrophic failure.
• Applies due diligence in ensuring accuracy by promptly completing all necessary documentation, including daily production reports, crossing reports, red lines, and equipment logs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed