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Hydro Excavator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydro Excavator Operator

Fairfield, OH

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Apply today! #INDPKIS 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 ...

Hydro Excavator Operator

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Hydro Excavator Truck Operator Responsible for operating a Hydro Excavator Truck which requires higher attention to detail and skill in interpreting closed-circuit television video (CCTV) as well as ...

This role involves operating hydro excavating equipment to safely and efficiently expose underground utilities, excavate soil, and perform other related tasks in various site conditions. The Hydro ...

This role involves operating hydro excavating equipment to safely and efficiently expose underground utilities, excavate soil, and perform other related tasks in various site conditions. The Hydro ...

This role involves operating hydro excavating equipment to safely and efficiently expose underground utilities, excavate soil, and perform other related tasks in various site conditions. The Hydro ...

The Hydro Excavation Vac Foreman will oversee hydro excavation crews in the field and ensure that safe, accurate, and timely work is being performed. The Foreman will be responsible for project ...

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 ...

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Hydro Excavator information

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$13

$26

$41

How much do hydro excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro excavator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydro excavator?

A hydro excavator is a specialized operator who uses high-pressure water and a powerful vacuum system to safely and efficiently excavate soil or other materials. This non-destructive process, known as hydro excavation, is often used for digging around sensitive underground utilities, pipelines, or in areas where traditional excavation methods could cause damage. Hydro excavators are commonly employed in construction, utility maintenance, and environmental cleanup projects. Their work helps ensure precise excavation with minimal risk to existing infrastructure.

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

To thrive as a Hydro Excavator, you need experience with heavy equipment operation, a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), and a basic understanding of utility line locations and excavation safety protocols. Familiarity with hydro excavation trucks, vacuum systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA or HAZWOPER is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These qualifications and skills ensure safe, precise excavation work that avoids utility damage and maintains compliance with safety regulations.

What are some common safety challenges hydro excavators face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Hydro Excavators frequently work around underground utilities, heavy equipment, and in varying weather conditions, all of which introduce unique safety challenges. To mitigate risks, teams emphasize thorough site assessments, regular safety training, and strict adherence to operating procedures. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and real-time communication with crew members are mandatory to ensure everyone's well-being. Additionally, Hydro Excavators often collaborate closely with utility locators and site supervisors to prevent accidental damage and maintain a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Hydro Excavator vs Vacuum Excavator?

AspectHydro ExcavatorVacuum Excavator
Primary MethodUses high-pressure water to loosen soilUses suction to remove debris and soil
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility workConstruction, excavation, debris removal
CredentialsOperator certification, safety trainingOperator certification, safety training
Industry UsageUtility installation, potholingDebris removal, excavation

Hydro Excavator and Vacuum Excavator are often used together but serve different functions. Hydro Excavators use pressurized water to safely expose underground utilities, while Vacuum Excavators remove debris and loosened soil. Both require operator certification and are common in construction and utility industries, but their primary methods and applications differ.

More about Hydro Excavator jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydro Excavator jobs? Cities with the most Hydro Excavator job openings:
What states have the most Hydro Excavator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydro Excavator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hydro Excavator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Hydro Excavator Operator

City of Gainesville, GA

Gainesville, GA • On-site

$21 - $27.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Hydro Excavator Truck Operator

Responsible for operating a Hydro Excavator Truck which requires higher attention to detail and skill in interpreting closed-circuit television video (CCTV) as well as Global Positioning System (GPS) data. Also, operates a tandem axle truck, backhoe, skid steer loader, dozer, scraper, grader, pothole patcher, operates light equipment such as cement mixers, asphalt spreaders, etc. dump truck, sewer jet truck, road tractor, track hoe, excavator, skid steer, forklift.

Job Duties

Operates the specialized Hydro Excavator Truck to remove dirt and silt with precision and less damage: vital to well-maintained areas. Assists in shortening repair times and lessens large clean-up efforts after work is completed. Works to assist in cleaning storm water lines, basins, and manholes as needed. Operates flat-bed dump trucks to transport materials or haul brush/debris, gravel, asphalt, etc. Performs basic maintenance on backhoes, dump trucks and mowers including washing, changing oil, greasing, sharpening blades and changing flat tires. May assist in training new employees. Performs other related duties as assigned. Operates a tandem axle truck, dump truck, sewer jet truck, road tractor, track hoe, excavator, backhoe, skid steer loader, dozer, forklift; operates light equipment such as cement mixer, asphalt roller, boring machine, air compressor, concrete saw, etc. on a water or sanitary sewer crew. Inspects storm water condition via CCTV. Locates and uncovers broken sewer and water lines; oversees the operations for the crew; operates machinery as needed; assures equipment is properly serviced and maintained. Potholing for new construction of water lines, sewer taps, cable lines, fire line connections, gas lines, and sewer lines. Constructs taps and main extension tie-ins for the water system, draws maps of valves and manholes to assure proper location. Employee subject to recall in case of an emergency. Employee may serve as crew supervisor as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience: Ability to read and write. Preferred experience reading GPS coordinates. Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the minimum level of qualifications stated above. Licenses and Certifications: Valid Class B or A Driver's License depending on assigned vehicle and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). Due to the safety-sensitive nature of this position, incumbents will be subject to random drug testing. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of geography of the City/County including major streets and landmarks. Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures. Knowledge of traffic rules and regulations and safe operation of heavy equipment. Basic to intermediate knowledge of and skill in operating various types of heavy equipment. Ability to take and follow directions from supervisor. Ability to perform strenuous and routine work. Ability to lift objects of up to 50 pounds. Knowledge of the principles, practices and methods in water and sewer line construction and maintenance as well as the installation and repair of sewer and water taps, fire hydrants and water meters. Knowledge of the operations and safety precautions necessary in the operations of the various types of machinery used in water and sewer line construction. Ability to read and interpret blueprints and site plans. Ability to understand and follow instructions both orally and in writing. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

Supplemental Information

This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification. The above position qualifies for a 5% certification incentive based upon attainment of a Wastewater Collection Operator Certification. The above position qualifies for a 5% certification incentive based upon attainment of a Water Distribution Operator Certification. 15% maximum allowable for certification incentives.

The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity employer. The City of Gainesville prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. The City of Gainesville conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.