Horizontal Drill Technician

Company Description:

Swift Underground specializes in utility infrastructure construction and is based in Steinbach, Manitoba. We use industry-leading equipment and technologies to construct and install fibre optic cabling and conduit, sewer and water infrastructure, and geothermal ground loops across Western Canada and Ontario.

Position Summary:

The Horizontal Drill Technician is a hands-on field role responsible for the installation of underground fibre optic infrastructure using a horizontal directional drill (HDD) machine. Each drill crew is comprised of two technicians who rotate daily between drilling and locating duties ensuring both techs are competent in all aspects of the drill crew's operations.

This role will assist our current drill crews and Drill Leads in the field and involves operating specialized drilling and locating equipment, completing physical tasks, and maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality, and teamwork.

This position will require you to be able to travel for out-of-town projects in Western Canada and Ontario. Tools and equipment are provided.

Our ideal candidate will highly value honesty, enjoy the outdoors, and is physically capable of meeting the demands of construction field operations.

Essential Job Functions:

• Assist with loading and unloading equipment and securing tools, equipment, and materials required for daily drilling operations.
• Set up and maintain work site traffic control and other safety measures in accordance with site requirements and company procedures.
• Hand dig using shovels, picks, and digging bars to expose existing located utilities, access underground vaults, and complete trenches.
• Operate horizontal directional drills and locating equipment under the supervision of experienced crew members.
• Place conduit and/or cables underground following approved bore plans and safety requirements.
• When required and if appropriately licensed and authorized, operate company vehicles and construction equipment used on the job site to complete daily work assignments.
• Clean and maintain all company vehicles and equipment assigned for use.
• Work scheduled shifts, including overtime, based on project and operational needs.
• Must be able to travel and work on out-of-town projects (10&4 or 5&2 rotation schedules).

Position Qualifications:

• Ability to work effectively outdoors in variable weather conditions and physically demanding environments.
• Commitment to following all company policies, procedures, and safety practices.
• Able to communicate with customers and co-workers in a professional manner.
• Ability to use a variety of power tools, hand tools, and specialized equipment.
• Responsible and safety‑focused operation of company vehicles and equipment.
• A valid Class 5 driver’s license is required. Possession of, or willingness to obtain, a Class 3 license with Air Brakes is considered a strong asset.

Compensation:

Beginning salary of $24-$36/hr based on experience.

Access to the company group benefits package and pension plan.

Daily per diem and company paid lodgings provided for eligible out-of-town projects (amount and eligibility based on project specifications and company policy).

Wage increases and advancement opportunities are available based on performance, skill development, and progression within the drilling program.

Application Deadline:

No deadline for applications, Swift will interview and hire until all positions are filled.