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 ...
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 ...
Hydro Excavation Operator
Richmond, VA · On-site
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 ...
Hydro Excavation Operator
Richmond, VA · On-site
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 ...
Hydro Excavation Operator
Richmond, VA · On-site
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 ...
Hydro Excavation Operator
Richmond, VA · On-site
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
Dave Schmitt Construction a Cedar Rapids, Iowa based union excavating and grading company is seeking a hydro excavation operator to work on our specialty crew. The ideal candidate would have ...
Quick apply
Dave Schmitt Construction a Cedar Rapids, Iowa based union excavating and grading company is seeking a hydro excavation operator to work on our specialty crew. The ideal candidate would have ...
Class A Vac Truck/Hydro Excavation Operator
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
Job Title: Class A Vac Truck / Hydro Excavation Operator Position Summary: Arrow Construction is an Underground Utility Contractor specializing in wet and dry utilities, directional drilling ...
Quick apply
Class A Vac Truck/Hydro Excavation Operator
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
Job Title: Class A Vac Truck / Hydro Excavation Operator Position Summary: Arrow Construction is an Underground Utility Contractor specializing in wet and dry utilities, directional drilling ...
Class A Vac Truck/Hydro Excavation Operator
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
Job Title: Class A Vac Truck / Hydro Excavation Operator Position Summary: Arrow Construction is an Underground Utility Contractor specializing in wet and dry utilities, directional drilling ...
Quick apply
Class A Vac Truck/Hydro Excavation Operator
Sacramento, CA · On-site
$28 - $35/hr
Job Title: Class A Vac Truck / Hydro Excavation Operator Position Summary: Arrow Construction is an Underground Utility Contractor specializing in wet and dry utilities, directional drilling ...
CDL Operator-Hydro excavation
Houston, TX · On-site
$30 - $36/hr
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 ...
CDL Operator-Hydro excavation
Houston, TX · On-site
$30 - $36/hr
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 Excavator Operator
$19.25 - $25.50/hr
We're looking for a dependable Hydro Vac Operator to safely operate hydro excavation equipment and support utility exposure projects in the field. This role requires strong attention to safety ...
Quick apply
Hydro Excavator Operator
$19.25 - $25.50/hr
We're looking for a dependable Hydro Vac Operator to safely operate hydro excavation equipment and support utility exposure projects in the field. This role requires strong attention to safety ...
CDL Operator - Construction and Hydro Excavation
Chandler, AZ · On-site
$28/hr
Now Hiring CDL Operators - Hydro Excavation Experience is a Plus! Phoenix, AZ & Surrounding Areas Starting Pay: $28+/hr (DOE) Full-time • Year-round work • Safety-first company AIMS Companies is ...
New
CDL Operator - Construction and Hydro Excavation
Chandler, AZ · On-site
$28/hr
Now Hiring CDL Operators - Hydro Excavation Experience is a Plus! Phoenix, AZ & Surrounding Areas Starting Pay: $28+/hr (DOE) Full-time • Year-round work • Safety-first company AIMS Companies is ...
New
CDL Operator - Construction and Hydro Excavation
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$28/hr
Now Hiring CDL Operators - Hydro Excavation Experience is a Plus! Phoenix, AZ & Surrounding Areas Starting Pay: $28+/hr (DOE) Full time Year round work Safety first company AIMS Companies is growing ...
CDL Operator - Construction and Hydro Excavation
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$28/hr
Now Hiring CDL Operators - Hydro Excavation Experience is a Plus! Phoenix, AZ & Surrounding Areas Starting Pay: $28+/hr (DOE) Full time Year round work Safety first company AIMS Companies is growing ...
CDL Operator - Construction and Hydro Excavation
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$28/hr
Now Hiring CDL Operators - Hydro Excavation Experience is a Plus! Phoenix, AZ & Surrounding Areas Starting Pay: $28+/hr (DOE) Full-time • Year-round work • Safety-first company AIMS Companies is ...
CDL Operator - Construction and Hydro Excavation
Phoenix, AZ · On-site
$28/hr
Now Hiring CDL Operators - Hydro Excavation Experience is a Plus! Phoenix, AZ & Surrounding Areas Starting Pay: $28+/hr (DOE) Full-time • Year-round work • Safety-first company AIMS Companies is ...
Hydro Excavator Operator
$20.50 - $27.25/hr
We're looking for a dependable Hydro Vac Operator to safely operate hydro excavation equipment and support utility exposure projects in the field. This role requires strong attention to safety ...
Quick apply
Hydro Excavator Operator
$20.50 - $27.25/hr
We're looking for a dependable Hydro Vac Operator to safely operate hydro excavation equipment and support utility exposure projects in the field. This role requires strong attention to safety ...
Hydro Excavation Operator information
See salary details
$10.82 - $12.78
0% of jobs
$12.78 - $14.75
2% of jobs
$14.75 - $16.72
13% of jobs
$17.85 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.72 - $18.68
17% of jobs
$18.68 - $20.65
14% of jobs
The median wage is $21.63 / hr.
$20.65 - $22.62
8% of jobs
$22.62 - $24.58
8% of jobs
$24.58 - $26.55
10% of jobs
$27.17 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$26.55 - $28.52
13% of jobs
$28.52 - $30.49
9% of jobs
$30.49 - $32.45
8% of jobs
$10
$22
$32
How much do hydro excavation operator jobs pay per hour?
What are some common challenges faced by Hydro Excavation Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?
How much does hydro excavation pay?
Do you need a CDL to drive a Hydrovac?
What is the difference between Hydro Excavation Operator vs Vacuum Truck Operator?
| Aspect | Hydro Excavation Operator | Vacuum Truck Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | CPR, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications | CPR, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications |
| Work Environment | Construction sites, utility locations, excavation areas | Industrial sites, waste management, environmental cleanup |
| Job Focus | Using high-pressure water and vacuum to excavate safely | Operating vacuum trucks for waste removal and material transport |
While both roles involve vacuum equipment, Hydro Excavation Operators specialize in using high-pressure water and vacuum systems for precise excavation, often in utility and construction settings. Vacuum Truck Operators primarily focus on waste removal and material transport using vacuum trucks across various industries. The skills and certifications overlap, but their work environments and primary tasks differ significantly.
What is a Hydro Excavation Operator?
What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?
What jobs pay 2000 a day?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydro Excavation Operator, and why are they important?

Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement
Posted 6 days ago
Job description
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