Backhoe Operator – Railway Construction & Maintenance
Position Summary
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Backhoe Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of backhoe equipment in support of railway construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, and infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will possess railway experience, demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, and contribute to the successful execution of projects throughout Western Canada.
This position requires travel and the ability to work in varying weather conditions, remote locations, and active railway environments.
Responsibilities
The Backhoe Operator is responsible for, but not limited to:
- Safely operating backhoe equipment in railway construction and maintenance environments.
- Performing excavation, ditching, grading, trenching, culvert installation, and material handling activities.
- Working safely around active railway infrastructure, tracks, crossings, signals, and utilities.
- Assisting with rail, tie, crossing, drainage, and right-of-way maintenance projects.
- Reading and interpreting project drawings, grade stakes, utility locates, and supervisor instructions.
- Conducting daily equipment inspections and completing required maintenance and inspection reports.
- Identifying and reporting equipment defects, maintenance requirements, and safety concerns.
- Loading, unloading, and transporting equipment and materials as required.
- Maintaining safe operating distances from personnel, equipment, and railway assets.
- Communicating effectively with supervisors, foremen, equipment operators, and ground crews.
- Participating in daily hazard assessments, safety meetings, and job briefings.
- Reporting incidents, near misses, injuries, and unsafe conditions immediately.
- Assisting with labour duties when equipment operation is not required.
- Maintaining cleanliness and professionalism of equipment interiors and exteriors.
- Supporting project schedules while ensuring all work is completed safely and efficiently.
- Following all company policies, railway regulations, and client-specific safety requirements.
Attitude & Core Values
The successful candidate demonstrates:
- A safety-first mindset in all aspects of work.
- Strong work ethic and reliability.
- Willingness to learn and take on new challenges.
- Ability to adapt to changing site conditions and project demands.
- Leadership through actions and positive influence on crew members.
- Professionalism and respect for coworkers, clients, and railway stakeholders.
- Accountability for personal performance and equipment care.
- Honesty, integrity, and commitment to quality workmanship.
- Strong teamwork and communication skills.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of backhoe operating experience.
- Previous railway construction or railway maintenance experience required.
- Valid Class 5 Driver's License
- Experience working in regulated railway environments.
- Familiarity with railway safety rules, operating procedures, and right-of-way work.
- Ability to perform routine equipment inspections and minor maintenance.
- Ability to read and understand project plans, safety procedures, and work instructions.
- Strong awareness of hazards associated with railway operations and heavy equipment.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a crew.
- Willingness to travel throughout Western Canada.
- Physically capable of lifting up to 75 lbs and performing labour-intensive tasks when required.
Preferred Certifications
- CROR Certification
- Canadian Railway Operating Rules (CROR) experience
- eRailSafe or equivalent railway orientation
- Ground Disturbance Level II
- First Aid/CPR Certification
- CSTS 2020
- WHMIS
- Valid Driver's Abstract
Elevated Rail Solutions Expectations
At Elevated Rail Solutions, every employee is expected to uphold our commitment to Safety, Quality, Accountability, and Professionalism. We take pride in delivering reliable railway infrastructure solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety and workmanship.
Pay: $35.00-$45.00 per hour
Work Location: On the road
