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Hydro Excavating Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M5 Utilities

Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · 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:

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- Hydro

Henderson, CO · On-site

$30 - $33/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 ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- Hydro

Henderson, CO · On-site

$30 - $33/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 ...

GFL Environmental

CDL Driver - Local

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Services provided include (but are not limited to): hydro excavating, confined space entry, spill cleanup, line flushing, power washing, water hauling, and loading and hauling of various fluids ...

GFL Environmental

CDL Driver - Local

Bemidji, MN · On-site

$28/hr

Services provided include (but are not limited to): hydro excavating, confined space entry, spill cleanup, line flushing, power washing, water hauling, and loading and hauling of various fluids ...

GFL Environmental

CDL B Driver

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Services provided include (but are not limited to): hydro excavating, confined space entry, spill cleanup, line flushing, power washing, water hauling, and loading and hauling of various fluids ...

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All JobsHydro Excavating Jobs

Hydro Excavating information

See salary details

$38K

$70.2K

$91K

How much do hydro excavating jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,230 per year, or $33.8 per hour.
Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- Hydro

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-A- Hydro

Peak Utility Services Group

Henderson, CO • On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Peak Utility Infrastructure is an integrated engineering and construction company that serves the Electric, Natural Gas, and Telecommunications industries. We provide a full suite of engineering, construction, operations, and maintenance services, including repair, replacement, maintenance, and installation of natural gas, telecommunications, and electric infrastructure through our operating subsidiaries: SiteWise, Kelly Cable, Riley Brothers, and Superior Pipeline Services.
Position Title: Hydrovac Operator
Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.
Classification: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $30.00 - $33.00 per hour DOE
Essential Functions:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
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 lead, responsible for the completion of projects in a safe and timely manner. Safe Operations of Truck and Its Equipment.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Completes all work assigned in compliance with Peak Utilities Services Group 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 Peak Utilities Services Group and Subsidiaries employees and the customers and general 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
  • Advises 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
  • Trains and directs the duties of the pothole operator doing hydro excavation
  • Performs daily and weekly truck inspections, truck / trailer paperwork including Department of Transportation (DOT) fuel log, immediately notify the Operations Supervisor of any truck / trailer repairs that are needed or performed
  • Ensures that truck is fully equipped with tools, mirrors, tape measures, paint, core bits, core drill, backfill material, pot hole plates etc. and that the equipment operates properly
  • Cleans, checks fluid levels and conducts 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, perform needed maintenance including winterizing equipment.
  • Utilizes defensive driving practices
  • Operates truck in a manner that ensures compliance with all applicable company, state and federal safety regulations.
  • Follows required company and DOT reporting procedures
  • Maintains paperwork during the day including DVIR and driver's logbook.
  • Ensures the truck has current licenses, tags, permits, and proof of insurance

Success Factors:
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions.
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs. multiple times during a work shift
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy
  • 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 or B, with airbrake endorsement and tanker endorsement) is required
  • Candidates must pass Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check, a DOT regulated physical as a requirement of the job and pass a pre-employment drug screen

Notes:
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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