Pipeline Clearing Supervisor in Edson, Alberta at Backwoods

Backwoods Energy Services is 100% Indigenous-owned and provides construction services to the oil, gas, and utility industries in north-western Alberta. We are the one of the largest Indigenous community owned companies in Alberta and focus on building lasting client relationships with a commitment to safety excellence and quality service. Our business consists of five operating divisions: Civil Works and Clearing, Environmental Services, Pipeline and Integrity Maintenance, Matting Supply and Installation and Security Services. Our mission is to drive economic opportunity by empowering Indigenous people and communities.

Backwoods Energy is seeking an experienced Pipeline Clearing Supervisor to lead field operations on pipeline right-of-way clearing projects throughout Alberta.

Reporting to the Operations Manager/Project Manager, the Pipeline Clearing Supervisor is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant execution of clearing activities while ensuring production targets, environmental requirements, quality standards, and client expectations are achieved.

The successful candidate will provide direct leadership to equipment operators, labourers, and subcontractors and serve as the primary field representative on assigned projects.

Key Responsibilities

Safety & Compliance

• Lead all field activities in accordance with company safety programs, client requirements, and applicable legislation.
• Conduct daily safety meetings, hazard assessments, inspections, and audits.
• Ensure personnel maintain required certifications and training.
• Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Operations Management

• Plan, coordinate, and supervise daily right-of-way clearing activities.
• Lead crews performing brushing, timber harvesting, mulching, grubbing, and access development activities.
• Coordinate labour, equipment, subcontractors, and project resources.
• Monitor production and adjust resources to achieve project objectives.
• Ensure work is completed in accordance with project specifications, environmental requirements, and client expectations.
• Maintain project schedules and coordinate field logistics.

Client & Stakeholder Coordination

• Serve as the primary field contact for client representatives.
• Participate in project planning and progress meetings.
• Maintain positive working relationships with clients, landowners, Indigenous communities, and regulatory representatives.
• Communicate project progress, challenges, and opportunities to management.

Cost Control & Reporting

• Complete and review daily reports, timesheets, production records, and equipment utilization reports.
• Monitor labour and equipment productivity.
• Track project performance and production targets.
• Identify scope changes and extra work opportunities.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and records.

Quality & Environmental Compliance

• Ensure all work meets contract specifications and quality requirements.
• Verify clearing limits, environmental protection measures, and timber utilization requirements.
• Coordinate inspections and deficiency corrections.
• Ensure compliance with environmental permits and regulatory obligations.

Leadership

• Lead and mentor field personnel.
• Foster teamwork, professionalism, and accountability.
• Support workforce development and succession planning initiatives.

Qualifications Required

• Minimum 10 years of experience in pipeline clearing, forestry, right-of-way development, or related construction activities.
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience.
• Experience leading forestry and heavy equipment operations.
• Strong understanding of pipeline right-of-way clearing practices.
• Experience coordinating subcontractors and field crews.
• Valid Class 5 Driver's Licence.
• Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in remote locations and varying weather conditions.

Experience With Equipment Such As

• Feller Bunchers
• Processors
• Skidders
• Mulchers
• Excavators
• Dozers
• Loaders

Mandatory Certifications

• CSTS 2020 /CSO
• WHMIS2015
• Standard First Aid
• Ground Disturbance Level II
• H2S Alive
• Utility Safety Partners Orientation
• Class 5 Driver's License with 3 year Driver's Abstract provided at time of hire