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Hydro Excavation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Hydro-Excavation Operator/Driver to join our team in Channelview, TX ! As a Hydro-Excavation Operator/Driver, you will be responsible for operating ...

Hydro Excavation Laborer I Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Pay Rate: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour DOE Classification: Non-Exempt Essential Functions:

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Hydro Excavation information

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How much do hydro excavation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro excavation in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hydro Excavation position, and why are they important?

To excel in Hydro Excavation, you need a solid understanding of construction or utility excavation, mechanical aptitude, and a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) or equivalent. Experience operating hydro excavation trucks, water jetters, vacuum systems, and adherence to OSHA safety procedures is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These qualities are crucial for ensuring safety, protecting underground infrastructure, and successfully completing projects on time and to specification.

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

Hydro excavation specialists typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful business owners. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, or significant experience. Most roles in hydro excavation pay well but generally do not reach this income level without additional responsibilities or ownership stakes.

What is a Hydro Excavation job?

A Hydro Excavation job involves using high-pressure water to break up soil and a vacuum system to remove the debris, creating a precise and non-destructive excavation process. This method is commonly used for digging around utilities, trenching, and exposing underground infrastructure with minimal risk of damage. Hydro excavation is safer and more efficient than traditional digging methods, making it ideal for construction, utility work, and repair projects. Workers in this field operate specialized vacuum trucks and equipment to perform the job effectively.

What are some typical working conditions and expected schedules for a Hydro Excavation professional?

Hydro Excavation professionals often work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and at different job sites, such as construction areas, utilities, or municipal projects. Work schedules can be full-time and may include early mornings, evenings, or occasional weekends, depending on project deadlines or emergency work. The role involves collaborating closely with project managers, utility crews, and safety personnel to ensure each excavation is performed safely and efficiently. Many companies provide regular safety training and opportunities to advance into lead operator or supervisory positions as you gain experience. This dynamic work environment suits individuals who are adaptable, safety conscious, and enjoy hands-on fieldwork.

How much does hydro excavation pay?

Hydro excavation technicians typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled operators with specialized equipment knowledge may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for utility and infrastructure work.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of hydro excavation, experienced operators or supervisors can earn around $10,000 monthly, especially with specialized skills, certifications, and extensive experience. High-paying roles often involve managing large projects, working in remote environments, or owning a business in the industry. These positions typically require technical knowledge, safety training, and strong operational skills but not necessarily a college degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Hydro excavation jobs typically do not pay $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized roles like high-level consulting, executive positions, or certain contract-based jobs in industries like oil and gas. Skilled trades or project management roles in construction may reach high daily rates with experience and certifications, but earning $2000 daily is uncommon for standard hydro excavation work.
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What states have the most Hydro Excavation jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro Excavation jobs include:

Hydro Excavation Operator

MasTec Utility Services

Richmond, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Overview

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Hydro Excavation Operator operates high-pressure water and vacuum systems to excavate soil. Hydrovac Excavation is a non-destructive method of excavating as an alternative to mechanical equipment or hand-digging. Hydrovacs use pressurized water and a vacuum system to quickly, safely, precisely, and cleanly excavate around utilities, pipelines, and numerous other applications.


Responsibilities
  • Operate jobsite equipment safely.
  • Operate the on-board hydro-vacuum system outside the truck performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and cables. 
  • Perform Hydrovac work consists of cleaning and vacuuming, mobilization of equipment, truck maintenance, daily documentation, safety meetings, etc.
  • Safety Focus: Must adhere to strict safety regulations. At MasTec, safety isn't just a priority - it's a core value. Working safely is a condition of employment.
  • Perform other duties as required and/or assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1+ years of Hydrovac Excavation or related experience.
  • CDL-A licensure with tanker endorsements and a clean driving record.

Preferred

  • 2 or more years of direct VXT Truck Vacuum Excavator experience.
  • Operator Qualification.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Qualifications:

Minimum

  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1+ years of Hydrovac Excavation or related experience.
  • CDL-A licensure with tanker endorsements and a clean driving record.

Preferred

  • 2 or more years of direct VXT Truck Vacuum Excavator experience.
  • Operator Qualification.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME