HDD Operator / Locater
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 1, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 23, 2026. Black & McDonald scores A on the Alion truth index.
ABOUT THIS CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Black & McDonald’s Calgary Utilities team is growing! If you are committed and collaborative professional looking to contribute to a hard-working, innovative team, this opportunity is for you.
Reporting to the Foreman or Supervisor, the HDD Operator/ Locator plays a key role in the safe and efficient installation of underground utilities. This position is responsible for operating directional drills while maintaining a strong focus on safety, equipment care, and accuracy. The HDD Operator/ Locator ensures all drilling activities are completed to specification by interpreting site plans, coordinating with crew members, and performing essential pre-operation inspections and maintenance tasks.
Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Safely operate the directional drill in the installation of underground utilities
- Operate directional drill in residential areas
- Responsible for the safe operation and basic maintenance of the organization’s equipment
- Read and interpret blueprints, stakes, and signage
- Coordinate and organize daily activities of equipment with drivers and operators
- Performing and logging pre-operation safety inspections for fueling and greasing the directional drill in order to maintain safe and optimal operation
- May perform general labour duties, as required
COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS
- Change Orientation (open to change and the ability to identify where it is needed and how to make it happen)
- Communicates Effectively (verbally and in writing)
- Continuous Learning (ongoing effort to learn and contribute to the learnings of others)
- Customer Focus (understands the needs and perspectives of both internal and external customers)
- Holds Self and Others Accountable (takes personal responsibility to meet commitments)
- Problem Solving and Innovation (ability to approach problems logically and seek innovative solutions)
- Teamwork and Collaboration (work cooperatively and collaboratively with others)
- Values and Respects Others (encourages and supports diversity)
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
- High School Diploma
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience working in the construction industry operating an (HDD) Horizontal Directional Drill Rig, specifically a Directional Drill Rig - Vermeer D20 x 22 Series 3, Vermeer 24X40
SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
- Class 1 driver's license preferred; alternatively, Class 3 is acceptable
- Possess a valid, Alberta Driver’s License and a clean, 3 year driving abstract
- Must hold a valid CSTS/Ground Disturbance ticket
- Willing to travel out of town if required
- Possess personal attributes which include being safety conscious, problem-solving abilities, high attention to detail, adaptability, ability to work independently, and takes initiative
- Physical fitness and stamina to handle manual labour and work in various weather conditions
Construction Safety Certifications including the following are considered assets:
- Confined Space Awareness/Rescue
- Fall Arrest
- WHMIS
- First Aid
All applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.
Black & McDonald welcomes and encourages applications from people with accessibility accommodation requirements. Accessibility accommodation is available upon request for candidates to take part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process.