Construction Operator AUPE

The Construction Operator is responsible for the construction and repair of underground water and wastewater infrastructure within Strathcona County. While work is typically performed under supervision, with increased experience and skill the successful incumbent will begin to operate with greater independence. This is a physically demanding role, often carried out in challenging and adverse conditions.

As operational experience grows, this position progresses from semi-skilled work to skilled operation, including the use of excavation and trenchless technologies to install, maintain, and repair water distribution and wastewater collection systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Install and repair underground water and wastewater infrastructure involving excavation, trenching, and shoring procedures; may use the trenchless method of Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) equipment and procedures, as required
• Interpret engineering drawings, specifications and grade sheets and locate all underground utilities
• Operate and maintain associated equipment such as, but not limited to, skid steer loader, dump truck, backhoe, High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) fusion and locating equipment
• Responsible for determining the appropriate repair requirements and materials, testing and performing HDPE fusions
• Complete appropriate backfill, surface restoration, landscaping and general site clean-up
• Work in confined spaces, possibly for extended periods of time, requiring the use of half mask, supplied air equipment such as SCBA and/or SABA  
• Transport supplies, materials, equipment, and people to and from work sites; this may include the use of tractor-trailer units
• Load and unload materials and equipment from trucks
• Clean and maintain tools and equipment to ensure ongoing efficient and effective operations; perform minor repairs during operation and report the need for major repairs or maintenance to supervisor
• Provide instruction, training, and supervision to Operators and Labourers to ensure work is performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with operational standards
• Maintain on-site communication and good public relations with internal and external customers; notify other departments and agencies in the disruption of services or emergent events
• Undertake work in accordance with Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) legislation and County policies, standards, and procedures
• Contribute and/or lead daily safety meetings and review of standard operating procedures and safe work plans; participate in hazard assessments and incident reporting, as required
• Carry out written or oral instructions and maintain equipment records and work reports
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others in a team environment

Qualifications and Skills

• High School Diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 1 year of direct experience in the construction and repair of underground water and wastewater infrastructure or 2 years of construction experience (non-residential)
• Valid Class 3 Alberta Motor Vehicle Operators License with Q Endorsement
  • Valid Class 1 Alberta Motor Vehicles Operators License with Q Endorsement is an asset
• Ground Disturbance and Prime Contractor training would be considered an asset
• Working knowledge of underground construction, trenching, shoring, piping, fittings and the safe operation, servicing and maintenance of associated equipment and vehicles
• Knowledge of trenchless technologies and the ability to perform HDD; this includes knowledge of drilling fluids and mud systems
• Considerable knowledge of OH&S regulations, safe work practices, and precautions; this includes the proper use of personal protection, safety equipment, resources as well as hazard identification and reporting
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and grade sheets and locate underground utilities
• Physically capable of operating tools and equipment; this includes being capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs
• Must be capable of working within confined and restricted spaces; confined space entries may require the use of fall arrest systems and supplied air equipment within a variety of different sized work environments
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and demonstrate leadership skills
• Capable of carrying out both verbal and written instruction and produce or maintain accurate records; this requires basic computer skills and mobile device literacy
• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions for extended periods of time

Conditions of Employment

• Submission of a Satisfactory Criminal Record Check  
• Valid Alberta Class 3 Driver’s license and submission of a 5-year Driver’s Abstract with less than 7 demerits  
• Ability to perform physical labour as part of the job duties and stand/walk for extended periods of time  

Who We Are

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta.  Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, collaboration, and accountability.  

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • Extended health and dental coverage    
  • Health and wellness spending account    
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Retirement and pension programs  
  • Earned day off program
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.  

Qualified internal applications will be considered first.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.  

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.