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Hydro Excavation Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CDL Hydro Vac Truck Operator

Boerne, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

Hydro Vac / Jetting Truck Operator We are seeking an experienced Hydro Vac / Jetting Truck Operator ... The ideal candidate will safely operate hydro excavation and vac/jetting equipment to perform non ...

Company Description Beach HydroVac is a local, large-capacity hydro excavation service provider ... The Hydrovac Operator will operate a 12yd. hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation ...

Hydro Excavators, LLC system is a non-destructive method of excavating as an alternative to ... Overhaul and test machines or equipment to ensure operating efficiency. * Fit bearings to adjust ...

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 ... This role goes beyond driving - the operator is responsible for the full setup, operation, and ...

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 ... This role goes beyond driving - the operator is responsible for the full setup, operation, and ...

The motivated and safety-focused Hydrovac Operator is responsible for operating vacuum trucks and related equipment to perform industrial cleaning, hydro excavation, waste removal, and environmental ...

Showing results 41-60

Hydro Excavation Operator information

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$10

$22

$32

How much do hydro excavation operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro excavation operator 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 is a hydro excavation operator?

A Hydro Excavation Operator is a skilled professional who operates specialized equipment that uses high-pressure water and a powerful vacuum to safely expose underground utilities and remove soil. This method, known as hydro excavation, is commonly used for digging in areas where traditional mechanical excavation could damage pipes, cables, or other infrastructure. Operators are responsible for controlling the equipment, ensuring job site safety, and following environmental regulations. Their work is essential for construction, utility maintenance, and infrastructure projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydro excavation operator?

To thrive as a Hydro Excavation Operator, you need a solid understanding of excavation safety, equipment operation, and basic mechanical skills, typically supported by a high school diploma and a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Familiarity with hydro excavation trucks, vacuum systems, and utility locating equipment is essential, and OSHA safety certifications are often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork skills are crucial for navigating job site hazards and coordinating with crew members. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and precise excavation while minimizing risk to underground utilities and people.

What are some common challenges faced by hydro excavation operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Hydro Excavation Operators often work in varying weather conditions and must navigate tight or complex job sites, which can present safety and operational challenges. Managing underground utilities safely and preventing damage requires constant attention to detail and effective communication with teammates and site supervisors. Staying updated on safety protocols, participating in regular equipment maintenance, and maintaining clear communication with the crew help operators address these challenges efficiently. Additionally, being adaptable and proactive in problem-solving is essential for success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Hydro Excavation Operator vs Vacuum Truck Operator?

AspectHydro Excavation OperatorVacuum Truck Operator
CertificationsCPR, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certificationsCPR, OSHA safety training, equipment-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility locations, excavation areasIndustrial sites, waste management, environmental cleanup
Job FocusUsing high-pressure water and vacuum to excavate safelyOperating 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.

More about Hydro Excavation Operator jobs

What states have the most Hydro Excavation Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hydro Excavation Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Hydro Excavation Operator jobs?

For Hydro Excavation Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hydro Excavation Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,598 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Hydro Vac Operator

Evanston, WY

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


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