Excavator Operator

Van Huigenbos Farms Ltd. is a 12,000 head commercial calf ranch and feedlot operation near Fort Macleod, AB. They are seeking an Excavator Operator (NOC 73400) with some duties of an Excavator Oiler (NOC 74203) to work on the feedlot and take on other excavator projects as part of the growth strategy for Van Huigenbos Farms. The ideal candidate must be able to work independently and take ownership of tasks and projects.

Employment type:

Permanent, full‑time (40 h/week). The main work location will be:
Van Huigenbos Farms Ltd., SE 21‑9‑26 W4, Fort Macleod, AB, T0L 0Z0.

Salary/benefits: $36.00 per hour, 4 % vacation, health and wellness spending account after 6 months. Business address:
Van Huigenbos Farms Ltd., P.O. Box 2517, Fort Macleod, AB T0L 0Z0.

Reporting to the business owners, the Excavator Operator is responsible for carrying out day‑to‑day activities regarding excavator services on the feedlot location of Van Huigenbos Farms and on other locations that the company rents or for farms that become clients.

• Operate excavator to excavate, move, load and grade earth, rock, gravel or other materials (including manure) during construction, excavating pipe trenches, deepening waterways or reclaiming earth fill and feedlot maintenance activities ensuring proper depth, slope, and alignment.
• Conduct pre‑operational checks on equipment and clean, lubricate and refill equipment.
• Conduct scheduled maintenance and minor repairs to excavator.
• Safe loading and unloading of the excavator on a double‑drop trailer.
• Safe road transport of the excavator on the double‑drop trailer to work sites.
• Conduct safety checks, interpret site plans.
• Use various attachments to maximize productivity while working safely.
• Complete personal administration, including record‑keeping, correct and timely submission of timesheets, safety reporting, etc.

• At least 2 years of proven relevant work experience as an excavator operator, including maintenance of the excavator and safe road transport of an excavator on a double‑drop trailer to work sites.
• Candidate must be able to work independently and as part of a team, take ownership of the work duties and responsibilities. Self‑employment experience as an excavator operator is an asset.
• Basic understanding of feedlot operations and beef cattle behavior is a strong asset.
• Secondary school followed by completion of a one‑to‑two‑year apprenticeship program or some high school, college or industry courses in heavy equipment operating combined with on‑the‑job training are required.
• Class 1 driver’s license is an asset.
• Must be able to communicate in English.