Excavator Operator

Castle Rock Enterprises has been a market leader in the areas of underground utilities (sewer, water, electrical), site preparation, quarry services, land remediation and trucking for over 25 years. Founded in 1995, the company was purchased by Dakwakada Capital Investments (DCI) in 2010, which has maintained its family-business culture.  DCI is a privately owned investment firm in Whitehorse, Yukon that holds and manages most investment and business assets of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nation (CAFN). 

On top of its reputation as a top-quality construction company, it includes being a 100% First Nations owned business in its competitive advantage. Castle Rock maintains strong partnerships with the CAFN and the broader Whitehorse and Yukon communities through many community giving and sponsorship programs.

One of the first companies in the Yukon to achieve COR Certification, the health and safety of employees, contractors and the public is an integral part of our daily activities and our most vital core value at Castle Rock.

We are recruiting for the 2026 construction season (May through October). Hotel or Airbnb accommodations will be provided unless you prefer to secure your own private accommodation for the season. LOA based on accommodations.

Position Summary:

The Excavator Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing excavation, trenching, backfilling, grading, and site restoration for water, sewer, and earthworks projects. Working closely with pipe crews and supervisors, the Operator ensures underground utilities are installed accurately and safely. The role includes conducting daily equipment inspections, performing basic maintenance, and maintaining strong communication and situational awareness on active job sites. For the 2026 season, we will be looking for the following Operators:

Mainline Excavator (23-36 tonne)

Backfill Excavator

We also have a need for specialized Operators experienced in finish GPS.

Castle Rock prides itself on the quality of our heavy equipment fleet, which we maintain to the highest standards and renew regularly, so you will be working in state-of-the-art equipment.

Key Responsibilities:

Skilled in operating excavators and related heavy equipment for trenching, grading, pipe-laying, backfilling, and site restoration; able to work efficiently in tight spaces and around existing utilities and earthworks.

Demonstrates a strong commitment to workplace safety, following all company, industry, and regulatory requirements; ensures excavation work is completed without endangering crews, equipment, or underground infrastructure.

Reading and utilizing utility locates.

Understands excavation techniques, soil types, trench shoring, and proper sloping/benching practices; familiar with GPS for precision grading and alignment.

Conducts daily equipment inspections, routine servicing, and operator-level maintenance to ensure machinery is in safe, reliable condition.

Identifies hazards, obstructions, or soil stability issues and adjusts work methods accordingly, communicates potential issues to the Foreman promptly.

Works effectively with pipe crews, laborers, and supervisors to coordinate excavation activities and maintain project timelines.

Balances speed with accuracy to achieve production goals while maintaining high standards of workmanship.

Able to operate different machine types and adjust to varying site conditions, weather, and project requirements.

Requirements:

3-5 years of experience as an Excavator Operator (water, sewer, and earthworks experience preferred).

Valid driver’s license.

Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, grade stakes, and utility locate markings.

Basic knowledge of excavation safety, trench shoring, and working around underground utilities.

Proficient in both written and verbal English; able to follow and communicate clear instructions.

As a 100% First Nations-owned business, we strongly encourage submissions from qualified CAFN Citizens and First Nation, Metis and Inuit Peoples from across Yukon and other territories and provinces.

While we thank and appreciate all applicants, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

No phone calls or agencies, please.