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Hydro Excavator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and safety ...

Diamond D Industries

Hydro Vac Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities. * Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and ...

Hydro-X

Charlotte, NC - Hydrovac Laborer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Seventy percent or more of the job's work time is spent operating the on-board hydro- vacuum system outside the truck performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and ...

HDD CACTUS

Hydrovac CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO · On-site

Operate Mini Excavator and Hydro Excavator, as needed Uses a hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation and removal of debris in construction projects Load and unload materials, ensuring ...

Hydro-X

Charlotte, NC - Hydrovac Laborer

Centreville, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Seventy percent or more of the job's work time is spent operating the on-board hydro- vacuum system outside the truck performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and ...

Congruex

Ground Hand

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

As the Hydro Excavation Vac Foreman, you will ultimately be responsible for leading hydro excavation crews, coordinating daily field operations, and ensuring projects are completed safely, accurately ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-B- Hydro

Henderson, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/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 ...

HDD CACTUS

Hydrovac / CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Operate Mini Excavator and Hydro Excavator, as needed * Uses a hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation and removal of debris in construction projects * Load and unload materials ...

SiteWise

Hydrovac Operator - CDL-B- Hydro

Henderson, CO · On-site

$30 - $36/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 ...

HDD CACTUS

Hydrovac / CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Operate Mini Excavator and Hydro Excavator, as needed * Uses a hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation and removal of debris in construction projects * Load and unload materials ...

HDD CACTUS

Hydrovac / CDL Driver

Ignacio, CO

$22 - $35/hr

Operate Mini Excavator and Hydro Excavator, as needed * Uses a hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation and removal of debris in construction projects * Load and unload materials ...

B&B SITE MANAGEMENT

Be Seen First

Class A CDL Driver

Waldorf, MD · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

As part of our Underground Utilities Division, the selected candidate will receive training in hydro excavation operations and will learn to safely operate hydro excavation equipment as project needs ...

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Hydro Excavator information

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How much do hydro excavator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Excavator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Excavator jobs are:
Hydro Excavator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Excavator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Hydro Vac Operator

Diamond D Industries

Port Allen, LA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

Diamond D Industries, LLC is the nation's leading woman-owned heavy construction specialist.  Based in South Louisiana, DDI offers clearing, access, site preparation, logistic, and storm response services throughout North America.


The Hydro Vac Operator is responsible for precise digging using advance machines to expose hidden utilities safely.


Key Responsibilities:


       Operate Hydro Vac trucks to excavate soil safely and efficiently while minimizing damage to underground utilities.

       Conduct pre-trip inspections of equipment to ensure proper functionality and safety compliance.

       Collaborate with construction teams to determine excavation needs and plan work accordingly.

       Maintain accurate records of work performed, including job site conditions and any issues encountered.

       Adhere to all safety regulations and company policies while on site, promoting a culture of safety among team members.

       Assist in the operation of other heavy equipment as needed.

       Perform routine maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

       Follow all operating procedures and guidelines.

       Any additional task or projects assigned by their supervisor.



Requirements

      Demonstrates good work practices through compliance and support of all site safety and healthy rules and guidelines.

       Proven experience operating hydovac trucks or similar heavy machinery is preferred.

       Familiarity with construction site operations and safety protocols is essential.

       A valid commercial driver's license is required; additional certifications for heavy equipment operations are a plus.

       Candidate must possess an OSHA 10 certifications or be willing to obtain it.

       Candidate must possess a PowerSafe Safety training certificate or be willing to obtain it.

       Ability to work in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks, including digging and lifting.

       Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team environment.

       A proactive attitude towards problem-solving and a commitment to continuous improvement in operational efficiency.

     *  Successful candidates must be complete a drug screening and background check prior to employment.



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