JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights
NWT Construction is hiring a Skilled Mainline Excavator Operator for the 2026 season in Yellowknife, onsite full time. As part of a leading Western Canada paving contractor, you will safely operate the Mainline Hoe, perform trenching for water, storm and sanitary lines, coordinate with ground crew, and ensure proper depth and grade while upholding OH&S standards and the company Code of Ethics. Requirements include a Class 5 license, 3-5 years in road construction, and 5+ years operating a mainline hoe; Class 1 or 3 is an asset. Be prepared for a weather dependent schedule, possible travel, physical work, PPE and testing. Include licenses, safety record, references, and apply now.
135 Kam Lake Road, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2R2 Telephone: (867) 920-4844
NWT Construction, a division of NPA is one of Western Canada’s largest paving contractors, with over 700 employees helping us provide our products and services throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories. Our equipment fleet and shops are among the most modern in our business. We take pride in our employees and place a high-value on establishing a workplace where people are challenged and respected every day.
Summary
NWT Construction is currently hiring a Skilled Mainline Excavator Operator for the 2026 construction season!
The Excavator Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the excavator. Theoperator uses mechanical controls to operate the boom, arm and bucket to excavate and level theground in multiple phases of the road construction process.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate the Hoe and other heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner.
- Perform daily maintenance and safety checks of equipment.
- Conduct pre-operational checks on equipment, and clean, lubricate and refill equipment as necessary.
- Work with ground personnel in the excavation and installation process of laying pipe online and tograde.
- Ensure trench is excavated to the proper depth/grade.
- Responsible for placement of water, storm, and sanitary sewer pipe in the excavation.
- Follow directions of ground crew regarding craning, gravel placement and grading.
- Cut grade with minimal time spent on excavating to ensure production is on schedule.
- Conduct trench work, which meets OH&S requirements.
- Operate Hoe on public roadways, maintaining proper awareness of one's surroundings.
- Ensure a sound understanding of the issues involving ground disturbance.
- Be aware of proper rigging of pipe, manhole barrels, etc. and ensure safe work procedures are followed during the lowering of materials into the excavation.
- Perform routine cleaning and maintenance to ensure smooth operation of the Hoe.
- Train employees in the safe and efficient operation of the Hoe.
- Must ensure a solid understanding of and comply with the principles of the company’s Code of Ethics.
- Must examine situations in light of the principles of the Code of Ethics.
- Promote, execute, and adhere to the company’s safety program, and encourage all employees, sub-contractors, and consultants to adopt safety as a culture.
- Work in a safe, responsible manner to not intentionally or unintentionally injure oneself, or endanger the wellbeing of others.
- Other operation related duties as required.
Qualifications | Requirements
- Class 5 driver's license required
- Minimum 3-5 years experience within the road construction industry
- Minimum of 5 years experience operating a Mainline Hoe is required
- Class 1 or 3 driver's license considered an asset
Working Conditions
- Weather dependent schedule of Monday to Saturday, consisting of up to 12 hours. Overtime is paid in accordance with local employment standards legislation.
- Out of town travel may be required, accommodations and Live Out Allowance may be applicable.
- Work is performed in an outdoor setting, which could include inclement weather, heat and humidity, and exposure to dust and asphalt.
- Must be physically able to repetitively lift and carry at least 50 LBS on a regular basis.
- Use of Personal Protection Equipment is required.
- Must comply with the company's drug and alcohol testing requirements.
What's In It For You?
We are pleased to offer the successful candidate an attractive wage, extended health benefits, company matching pension plan, educational assistance, excellent opportunities for professional growth, accommodations and Live Out Allowance may be applicable and more!
If this sounds like an exciting opportunity you would enjoy, hit the apply now button below!
NWT Construction is pleased to offer the successful candidate an attractive wage, comprehensive benefits, including a pension plan, educational assistance, excellent opportunities for professional growth, and more.
We thank all candidates for their interest in a position with NWT Construction, however only candidates selected to move forward will be contacted.