Hydrovac Operator

Hall Group of Companies•Area F (Willow River/Upper Fraser), BC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for safely operating hydrovac equipment to complete non-destructive excavation, potholing, and daylighting of underground utilities. This role supports construction and civil infrastructure projects by using high-pressure water and vacuum systems to expose utilities and services without damage. The successful candidate will be safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working outdoors in active construction environments.

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of experience operating hydrovac equipment.
Valid Class 1 or Class 3 driver’s licence with air brake endorsement.
Clean or acceptable driver’s abstract.
Previous experience working in civil construction, utilities, municipal infrastructure, or a related construction environment.
Experience working around underground utilities, including gas, electrical, water, sewer, and telecommunications infrastructure.
Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for extended periods, and working outdoors in all weather conditions.
Proficient in operating hydrovac equipment, including high-pressure water systems and vacuum excavation systems.
Strong understanding of non-destructive excavation methods, potholing, and daylighting practices.
Ability to read and interpret BC 1 Call tickets, utility locates, drawings, and basic construction plans.
Working knowledge of underground utility safety practices and safe excavation requirements.
Ability to complete pre-trip and post-trip inspections and identify basic equipment issues.
Basic mechanical aptitude for minor troubleshooting, cleaning, and routine equipment maintenance.
Familiarity with setting up safe work zones, including traffic control, grounding/bonding, and hazard identification.
Comfortable completing digital or paper job reports, inspection forms, safety documentation, and daily paperwork accurately.
Strong safety mindset and commitment to following company policies, site rules, and regulatory requirements.
Reliable, professional, and respectful when working with crews, supervisors, clients, inspectors, and the public.
Able to communicate clearly with dispatchers, site foremen, supervisors, and crew members.
Able to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
Strong time management and organizational skills.
Positive attitude and willingness to support changing site conditions and operational needs.
Customer-service oriented when interacting with clients, site contacts, and members of the public.

Nice To Haves

Ground Disturbance certification is preferred.
TDG, Confined Space, Fall Protection, H2S Alive, and First Aid are considered assets.

Responsibilities

Safely operate hydrovac units to perform non-destructive excavation, potholing, and daylighting of underground utilities, including gas, electrical, water, sewer, and telecommunications infrastructure.
Complete daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections of the vehicle and related equipment.
Maintain cleanliness and basic upkeep of the assigned vehicle and equipment.
Review BC 1 Call tickets, utility locates, drawings, and site instructions before excavation.
Identify and escalate unclear locates, utility conflicts, equipment issues, or unsafe work conditions.
Conduct work area assessments to identify hazards before starting work.
Set up safe work zones, including traffic control, grounding/bonding, and hazard controls as required.
Use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to safely excavate around sensitive underground services.
Work around active construction crews, equipment, traffic, pedestrians, and site-specific hazards.
Communicate clearly with dispatchers, site foremen, supervisors, clients, and crew members.
Adjust routes based on traffic, road restrictions, and site access conditions.
Handle slurry, debris, and jobsite materials in accordance with company, site, and environmental requirements.
Perform routine cleaning, minor maintenance, and general housekeeping of the hydrovac unit and work area.
Complete daily paperwork, inspection forms, safety documentation, and job reports accurately and on time.