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Hydro Excavating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydro Vac Operator

Evanston, WY ยท On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

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Technician, HydroVac

La Porte, TX ยท On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Join Vecta Environmental Services, a leader in hydro excavating, where safety, quality, and growth opportunities drive everything we do! About Us: Vecta Environmental Services is a leading hydro ...

Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX ยท On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation equipment to perform non-destructive digging for underground utilities while maintaining strict safety standards Supervisory Responsibilities:

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or ...

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Hydro Excavating information

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$38K

$70.2K

$91K

How much do hydro excavating jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for hydro excavating in the United States is $70,230.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $82,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hydro Excavating vs Vacuum Excavating?

AspectHydro ExcavatingVacuum Excavating
CredentialsOperator certifications, safety trainingOperator certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility workConstruction sites, utility work
UsageUses high-pressure water to loosen soilUses suction to remove loosened soil

Hydro Excavating involves using high-pressure water to break up soil, followed by vacuum removal, making it ideal for precise excavation around utilities. Vacuum Excavating primarily uses suction to remove soil, often without water, suitable for non-destructive digging. Both methods require similar certifications and are used in construction and utility industries, but Hydro Excavating emphasizes water pressure for soil loosening, while Vacuum Excavating focuses on suction for soil removal.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydro Excavating Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydro Excavating Operator, you need a solid understanding of excavation techniques, safety protocols, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma and a commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with hydro excavation trucks, vacuum systems, and utility locating devices is typically required, along with OSHA safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, precise, and efficient excavation work around sensitive underground utilities.

What is hydro excavating?

Hydro excavating, also known as hydro excavation, is a non-destructive digging method that uses high-pressure water to break up soil, which is then removed by a powerful vacuum. This technique is commonly used to safely expose underground utilities, pipelines, or cables without causing damage. Hydro excavation is preferred over traditional mechanical digging because it minimizes the risk of utility strikes, reduces environmental impact, and allows for precise excavation even in sensitive or congested areas.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Hydro excavating jobs can pay around $4,000 a week for experienced operators, especially those with specialized skills and certifications. These roles often involve working with high-pressure water and vacuum equipment in construction or utility maintenance environments, and pay varies based on experience, location, and job complexity.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, some high-paying roles related to hydro excavating or similar specialized trades include senior project managers, business owners, or executives in construction and excavation companies, often earning $500,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and management skills, and may involve overseeing large projects or owning profitable businesses.

How much does hydro excavation pay?

Hydro excavating operators typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while skilled operators with specialized training can earn higher wages and overtime pay.

What are some typical challenges faced by hydro excavating operators on the job site?

Hydro excavating operators often encounter challenges such as varying soil types, underground utility congestion, and unpredictable weather conditions that can impact efficiency and safety. Operators must remain vigilant to avoid damaging existing infrastructure, requiring strong attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication with site supervisors and utility locators is essential to overcome these challenges and ensure projects remain on schedule. Additionally, operators may work irregular hours or in demanding environments, so adaptability and teamwork are important for success.
More about Hydro Excavating jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydro Excavating jobs? Cities with the most Hydro Excavating job openings:
What states have the most Hydro Excavating jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro Excavating jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hydro Excavating job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,230 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Hydro Vac Operator

Redi Industrial Services, LLC

Evanston, WY โ€ข On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Hydrovac Operator


Are you looking for a change of pace? Consider a career in the exciting and rewarding Industrial Services Industry. Redi Industrial Services, LLC, a leader in the Industrial Services Industry, is in search of a Hydrovac Operator to join us in Evanston, WY, for an amazing fulltime, long-term opportunity with a family-owned company that is ready to make a commitment to you and your career goals. With safety being our top priority, Redi Services, LLC. has exciting plans for 2026. Won't you come and join us?

The Hydrovac Operator is responsible for the successful completion of hydro excavation processes. The incumbent operates Hydrovac, and other machines used in construction to excavate, load, dig or break rocks or debris, dirt, or other materials. The Hydrovac Operator acts as crew leader, responsible for the completion of projects in a safe and timely manner. Safe Operations of Truck and Its Equipment.


Job duties include but are not limited to:

  • Completing all work assigned in compliance with Redi and Subsidiaries procedures and customer requirements
  • Utilizes company provided resources in a manner that is productive and protects the assets from damage and theft
  • Responsible for their own safety, the safety of other Redi employees and Subsidiaries employees and the customers and public that encounter their work activities
  • At the completion of assigned work, follow up with job site foreman, and or your direct reports if supporting a bore-crew; is responsible for communicating with the bore lead
  • Responsible for the timely and accurate completion of work orders and dailies. Submit all complete and accurate paperwork to their Supervisor/Manager in a timely manner
  • Advising the Operations Supervisor of any conditions in the field that will change the company's ability to perform the work as required or complete the work on time. Follow any corrective action provided by the Operations Supervisor
  • Training and directing the duties of the pothole operator doing hydro excavation
  • Performing daily and weekly truck inspections, truck / trailer paperwork including Department of Transportation (DOT) fuel log, immediately notifying the Operations Supervisor of any truck / trailer repairs that are needed or performed
  • Ensuring that truck is fully equipped with tools, mirrors, tape measures, paint, core bits, core drill, backfill material, pothole plates etc. and that the equipment operates properly
  • Cleaning, checking fluid levels, and conducting a visual inspection of vehicle/equipment to assure vehicle/equipment is performing at optimum safety, performs the required pre-trip, post trip inspections and the required paperwork, performs needed maintenance including winterizing equipment.
  • Utilizing defensive driving practices.
  • Operating trucks in a manner that ensures compliance with all applicable company, state and federal safety regulations.
  • Following required company and DOT reporting procedures
  • Maintaining paperwork during the day including DVIR and driver's logbook.
  • Ensuring the truck has current licenses, tags, permits, and proof of insurance

Success Factors:

  • Performing heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions.
  • Lifting up to 80 lbs. multiple times during a work shift
  • Climbing, digging, and working in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling
  • Understand and following specific oral and written instructions
  • Working well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills

Experience and Education:

  • One (1+) plus years of demonstrated Potholing/Hydro Excavating experience with strong knowledge of underground utilities is required
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in dry utilities is required
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis.

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:

  • A valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL Class A, with airbrake endorsement and tanker endorsement) is required
  • Candidates must pass the Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, a regulated DOT physical as a requirement of the job and pass a pre-employment testing.

Pay Rate: $25.00-$28.00 DOE


Benefits and Perks:

  • Great Company Benefits starting 1st of the month after 60 days of eligible employment.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • 401K with company Match
  • PTO

Job Posted by ApplicantPro