1

Hydro Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Chocker

Lorton, VA

$18 - $19/hr

Chocker |Start Immediately |Weekly Pay This position is responsible for securing vehicles within carriers for transportation. Responsibilities * Ensure the placement and removal of chockers on each ...

Chocker

Lorton, VA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Chocker |Start Immediately |Weekly Pay This position is responsible for securing vehicles within carriers for transportation. Responsibilities * Ensure the placement and removal of chockers on each ...

Hydrovac Operator

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious CDL Hydro vac Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate hydro vac trucks to perform non-destructive excavation and daylighting services.

Hydrovac Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious CDL Hydro vac Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate hydro vac trucks to perform non-destructive excavation and daylighting services.

Greensboro, 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 ...

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $25/hr

Miller Pipeline is hiring a Hydrovac Truck Operator to assist and support the repair, maintenance ... Safely spot utilities by use of hydro-excavation. * Complete pre-trip on the vehicle at the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Hydro Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$21

$44

How much do hydro operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro operator in Virginia is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Hydro Operator vs Water Treatment Operator?

AspectHydro OperatorWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsHydropower plant certifications, safety trainingWater treatment certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentHydropower plants, dams, hydroelectric facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Industry UsageEnergy, utilities, renewable resourcesPublic health, municipal services, environmental management

While both roles involve operating water-related systems, a Hydro Operator primarily manages hydroelectric power facilities, focusing on energy production and dam operations. In contrast, a Water Treatment Operator handles water purification processes for municipal or industrial water supplies. Both roles require safety certifications and technical skills but serve different industry needs and environments.

What is the highest paying operator job?

The highest paying operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as offshore oil and gas platform operators, nuclear power plant operators, or industrial plant operators with advanced certifications. These roles typically require extensive experience, technical skills, and sometimes hazardous environment training, leading to higher salaries compared to standard operator positions.

What are some common challenges faced by Hydro Operators in their daily work?

Hydro Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to changes in water flow and demand, troubleshooting mechanical or electrical issues with turbines and generators, and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. They must remain vigilant to ensure the safe and efficient operation of hydroelectric equipment, especially during periods of extreme weather or peak energy demand. Collaborating effectively with maintenance teams and control room staff is essential to address unexpected issues and prevent downtime.

What Is the Job of a Hydro Operator?

A hydro or hydro-vac operator performs non-destructive excavation around sensitive components, such as utility cables and pipelines. In this career, your duties are to excavate using high pressure water blasting equipment and excavate debris using a special vacuum. Your responsibilities as a hydro operator also include maintaining paperwork to document your hydro-vac jobs, conducting regular inspections of your truck and vacuum, and performing routine maintenance and any needed repairs on your hydro-vac equipment. You must be safety conscious to avoid injury to yourself or others, as the equipment you operate can be dangerous.

How to become a hydroelectric operator?

To become a hydroelectric operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an associate degree in fields like electrical, mechanical, or industrial technology. Relevant experience in power plant operations, knowledge of control systems, and safety certifications such as OSHA are often required; some positions may also require a state license or certification. On-the-job training is common, and strong problem-solving skills are essential for maintaining and operating hydroelectric equipment safely and efficiently.

What are Hydro Operators?

Hydro Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of hydroelectric power plants. They manage the flow of water through turbines to generate electricity efficiently and safely, making adjustments based on demand and environmental conditions. Hydro Operators also perform regular inspections, maintain equipment, and respond to emergencies or system malfunctions to ensure continuous and reliable power generation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hydro Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hydro Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, knowledge of power plant operations, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, turbine controls, and regulatory compliance software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the reliable and safe operation of hydroelectric plants, supporting energy production and environmental standards.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Hydro operators can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience, certifications, and working in high-demand industrial or energy sectors. These roles often require technical skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership, but they do not always require a college degree. High-paying positions in skilled trades or specialized fields may also reach this income level without a degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Hydro Operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily pay is usually associated with specialized roles like offshore drilling managers, senior engineers, or consultants in high-demand industries. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, and working in challenging environments, and they may involve long shifts or offshore work.
What are popular job titles related to Hydro Operator jobs in VA? For Hydro Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Hydro Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 47% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,052 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
Aerial Lift Trimmer/Operator - Lexington, VA

Aerial Lift Trimmer/Operator - Lexington, VA

XYLEM TREE EXPERTS INC

Lexington, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Xylem Tree Experts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 30 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

Aerial Lift Trimmer/Operator - Lexington, VA

The Aerial Lift Trimmer is responsible for trimming, pruning, and removing trees with the aid of a bucket truck or other equipment or tools.

Essential Functions:

  • Always follow and help enforce safe practices and rules
  • Assist in preparing truck and materials needed for each day at General Foreperson's direction
  • Perform professional tree maintenance activities as directed by General Foreperson
  • Clear and trim trees and brush away from utility lines; remove branches and tree material
  • Clean up and dispose of all debris
  • Maintain and keep track of all tools and equipment used in daily operations
  • Constantly observe and practice climbing and tree maintenance skills in a continued effort to improve your own professional skills
  • Be ready and willing to assist other crew members in all aspects of daily activities
  • Safeguard employees and public from hazards in and around the work area by enforcing safe job practices, keeping work area clean and orderly, and staying in frequent voice communication with co-workers
  • Perform duties for storm work as needed

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Aerial Lift Trimmers have no direct reports.

Experience Requirements:

Prior experience in electric utility vegetation management, construction, logging, landscaping, mechanical, or military industries preferred; previous aerial lift experience preferred

Education Requirements:

High School diploma or education equivalent preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of all knots, ropes and rigging devices used in tree trimming and removal operations.
  • Must be able to identify tree species
  • Must be familiar with electrical hazards and appropriate operating procedures when in proximity to electrical conductors and aerial techniques in the event of an emergency aloft
  • Must be able to work and maneuver at considerable heights under varying and adverse weather conditions
  • Must possess physical strength and agility, good balance, good depth perception and the ability to hear verbal instructions from a distance.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain first-aid certification and CPR
  • Must be able to administer and implement emergency rescue techniques, including tree rescue and all applicable first aid techniques
  • Must be able to quickly remove yourself from a potential danger area
  • Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Must be able to travel out of town for storm restoration work when needed

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Position requires employee to be able to pass a background check and drug screen as required for this job.

Work authorization requirements: Must meet I-9 requirements.

Affirmative Action/EEO statement: Xylem Tree Experts and Kendall Vegetation Services provide equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement: XKIG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, including the ADA. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact our Talent Acquisition team at 877-418-2999.

Benefits Offered: This is a full-time position that offers health insurance benefits for medical, vision, and dental, as well as the option for enrollment in a 401K.

Paid Time Off (PTO) Eligibility and accrual timelines vary by position with some roles gaining PTO immediately and others becoming eligible after a set period of employment. Details are provided during the hiring process and may vary for Union hires.

AI Usage Disclaimer: As part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools during the recruiting and onboarding processes. These tools assist with tasks such as resume screening, interview scheduling, and communication. All decisions regarding hiring and employment are ultimately made by our human team. If you have questions or concerns about this process, please contact our HR department.


What Xylem Tree Experts employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom