Keeping the bucket level

I do a great deal of drainage ditch cleanout and have always struggled with keeping the bucket cutting level as I'm pulling it in to cut the bottom width. Grade is not an issue since I have a Spectra LB60 plumb compensating receiver. I've tried marking the stick and bucket mounts, one of those cheap slope gauges that show cross-slope, and having the receiver mounted to the bucket. I did upgrade to a tilt bucket this season and with the top of that bucket being flat it is considerably easier than a normal bucket. Just looking for any other ideas some of you might have out there. I've been running hoe for over 20 years so some would say I should know where level is but I'm just looking to be a little more peoductive, and maybe a little better fit and finish. Any advice appreciated.