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Hydro Excavating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M5 Utilities

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non-destructive digging, pipeline jetting, and related field services for underground utilities while ...

M5 Utilities

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non-destructive digging, pipeline jetting, and related field services for underground utilities while ...

M5 Utilities

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non-destructive digging, pipeline jetting, and related field services for underground utilities while ...

Azuria Water Solutions

CCTV Operator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Operate jet vac and hydro excavation trucks through the course of a job using high pressure water and vacuum systems for cleaning and excavations. * Work includes but is not limited to hydro ...

Azuria Water Solutions

CCTV Operator

Charlotte, NC

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Operate jet vac and hydro excavation trucks through the course of a job using high pressure water and vacuum systems for cleaning and excavations. * Work includes but is not limited to hydro ...

New

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

Hydro-X

Charlotte, NC - Hydrovac Laborer

Charlotte, NC

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Seventy percent or more of the job's work time is spent operating the on-board hydro- vacuum system outside the truck performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and ...

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Hydro Excavating information

See salary details

$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:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Excavating jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Excavating jobs are:
Hydro Excavating jobs near you
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.

Vacuum Excavation Jet Vac Operator

Azuria Water Solutions

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

As a leader in the industry, Insituform Technologies LLC, an Azuria Water Solutions company, is a global company that has been providing pipeline protection services for more than 50 years. Insituform values employee development and empowerment and are looking for innovative individuals to join their team and contribute to maintaining critical infrastructure worldwide.
We are currently seeking Vacuum Excavation Jet Vac Truck Operators with Jet Vac operating experience and a valid Class A or B CDL license to join our team in Charlotte, NC! As a Vacuum Excavation Jet Vac Operator, you will be responsible for the operation, care, and maintenance of all types of jet vac and hydro excavation trucks and services and will work around underground storm drains and sewers. We provide an extensive training program allowing operators the opportunity for success.
We are currently offering a limited-time sign-on bonus of $4,000 for new hires with a valid CDL license, and sign-on bonuses for new hires without a current CDL license are also available at a reduced amount. New employees who meet the criteria outlined in our sign-on bonus program will be eligible for the full payout.
The starting pay is dependent upon experience.
Why You’ll Love Working For Us:

  • Competitive salary
  • Daily per diem while traveling
  • 100% covered individual hotel room stays while traveling
  • Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • 401k matching
  • Tuition assistance
  • Paid time off and overtime pay
  • Company paid PPE, boots, and safety gear
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Work for a forward-thinking and innovative company
  • Ecological footprint - We are rehabbing the world’s infrastructure, one pipe at a time, with minimal disruption to people’s daily routines, with little waste

What You’ll Do:

  • Operate Jet vac and hydro excavation trucks, such as the Vactor 2100 series truck, through the course of a job using high-pressure water and vacuum systems for cleaning and excavations
  • Work includes but is not limited to hydro excavating to potholes, trenching and locating utilities, and also jet flush city sewers, storm sewers, and farm lines along with vacuuming of car wash pits and farm pits
  • Maintain equipment and keep it clean inside and out, including Vacuuming pipes and boxes, and for CCTV crews
  • Open and close storm grates and sewer manholes
  • Effectively read maps/prints
  • Ability to work alone or as part of a team
  • Document all services performed on the job
  • Mechanically inclined - conduct minor repairs to equipment

What We Need From You:

  • Must possess a Class A or B CDL with Tanker endorsement, and be aligned with Insituform’s motor vehicle standards
  • 6+ months of experience operating heavy equipment and Jet vac equipment is highly preferred
  • Experience working with underground utility construction is preferred
  • Valid driver’s license required with clean motor vehicle report
  • Comfortable working outside at job sites with moving vehicles and mechanical operations, with occasional exposure to fumes or airborne particles
  • Ability to lift/move up to 75 pounds and use pneumatic, battery-powered, or electric tools
  • Comfortable entering manholes and working in confined spaces
  • Ability to travel as needed


Azuria Water Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal opportunity is a sound and just concept to which Azuria Water Solutions is firmly bound. Azuria Water Solutions will not engage in discrimination against, or harassment of, any person employed or seeking employment with Azuria Water Solutions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, non-disqualifying disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
VEVRAA compliant – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.