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Hydro Vac Operator Driver Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. This role involves ... Valid driver's license with clean driving record. * Ability to perform physical labor including ...

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. This role involves ... Valid driver's license with clean driving record. * Ability to perform physical labor including ...

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. This role involves ... Valid driver's license with clean driving record. * Ability to perform physical labor including ...

Church Brothers Farms

CA · On-site

The 12-Pallet Operator is responsible for the offloading of incoming raw product and introducing the load into the Hydro Vac tube. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Must be able to identify ...

Kite Solutions LLC

Vac Tanker Operator/Driver

Chico, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Valid Class A driver's license with a clean driving record * Prior experience operating vacuum trucks and/or trailers * Minimum 2 years of driving experience; experience in dump trucks or heavy ...

Motive Companies

Civil Laborer

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Safely and efficiently operate a hydro-vac to dig trenches, foundations, and spot utilities ... Valid Driver's License Technical Requirements: * OSHA 10 Certification. * CDL A * 2+ years of ...

Motive Companies

Civil Laborer

Corona, CA

$20 - $25/hr

Safely and efficiently operate a hydro-vac to dig trenches, foundations, and spot utilities ... Valid Driver's License Technical Requirements: * OSHA 10 Certification. * CDL A * 2+ years of ...

Motive Companies

Civil Laborer

Corona, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Safely and efficiently operate a hydro-vac to dig trenches, foundations, and spot utilities ... Valid Driver's License Technical Requirements: * OSHA 10 Certification. * CDL A * 2+ years of ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator (CDL A)

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... is ideal for a dependable operator with strong underground construction experience, CDL ... Operate heavy equipment including skid steer, excavator, bobcat, dozer, and vac truck * Perform ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator (CDL A)

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... is ideal for a dependable operator with strong underground construction experience, CDL ... Operate heavy equipment including skid steer, excavator, bobcat, dozer, and vac truck * Perform ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator (CDL A)

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... is ideal for a dependable operator with strong underground construction experience, CDL ... Operate heavy equipment including skid steer, excavator, bobcat, dozer, and vac truck * Perform ...

Motive Workforce

Equipment Operator

Mission Viejo, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Equipment used includes TesMec (large truck with blade and vac), RT 2' blade Vacs (for potholes and ... Valid Driver License required and satisfactory driving record. Compensation: $28-35/hr #MCTA1

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Hydro Vac Operator Driver information

What is a hydro vac operator driver?

Hydro Vac Operator Drivers are professionals who operate specialized vehicles equipped with high-pressure water and vacuum systems to excavate soil, debris, or other materials safely and efficiently. They use these hydro-excavation trucks to expose underground utilities, remove waste, and perform precise digging tasks without causing damage to existing infrastructure. In addition to operating the equipment, they are responsible for driving the hydro vac truck to and from job sites, performing routine maintenance, and adhering to safety protocols. This role is common in construction, utility maintenance, and environmental cleanup industries.

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

To thrive as a Hydro Vac Operator Driver, you need a commercial driver’s license (CDL), knowledge of hydro excavation procedures, and experience operating heavy equipment. Familiarity with hydro vac trucks, GPS navigation, and site safety protocols is essential, and certifications like HAZWOPER or OSHA may be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with crew members make candidates stand out. These skills ensure safe, efficient excavation work while protecting underground utilities and maintaining compliance with safety regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by hydro vac operator drivers in the field?

Hydro Vac Operator Drivers often encounter challenges related to working in varying weather conditions, navigating tight or busy job sites, and ensuring the safety of both personnel and underground utilities. The role requires attention to detail when operating vacuum and hydro excavation equipment near sensitive infrastructure, which can be physically demanding and requires strong situational awareness. Effective communication with site supervisors, utility locators, and other crew members is essential to coordinate tasks and mitigate risks, making teamwork a vital aspect of the job.

What is the difference between Hydro Vac Operator Driver vs Hydro Vac Truck Operator?

AspectHydro Vac Operator DriverHydro Vac Truck Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, safety certifications, operator trainingDriver's license, safety certifications, equipment operation training
Work EnvironmentOperating hydro vac trucks at job sites, outdoor settingsDriving and operating hydro vac trucks, often on construction or industrial sites
Industry UsageConstruction, excavation, utility workConstruction, environmental cleanup, utility installation

Both roles involve operating hydro vac trucks, requiring similar certifications and working outdoors. The main difference is that a Hydro Vac Operator Driver emphasizes driving and basic operation, while a Hydro Vac Truck Operator may have additional responsibilities like equipment maintenance and complex operations. Both positions are essential in industries like construction and utility services.

What are popular job titles related to Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in California?

For Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs?

Cities in California with the most Hydro Vac Operator Driver job openings:

Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydro Vac Operator Driver job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution.

Hydro Vac Operator

Essel

Stockton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description


Essel is seeking a skilled Hydro Vac Operator to join our operations team. 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 Vac Operator plays a critical role in ensuring precision excavation with minimal risk to underground infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Operate hydro vacuum excavation equipment to safely expose underground utilities and perform excavation in compliance with safety standards.
  • Perform routine inspections and maintenance on hydro vac equipment to ensure optimal functionality.
  • Communicate effectively with crew members and supervisors to coordinate excavation activities.
  • Follow all safety protocols and adhere to company and regulatory guidelines.
  • Document work progress and any encountered issues accurately.
  • Assist with loading, unloading, and transport of equipment as required.
  • Maintain clean and safe work sites by adhering to site-specific safety procedures.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Prior experience operating hydro vac or similar heavy vacuum excavation equipment preferred.
  • Strong understanding of underground utility safety practices and excavation techniques.
  • Valid driver's license with clean driving record.
  • Ability to perform physical labor including lifting, climbing, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours and overtime as needed.
  • Commitment to following safety protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.

Benefits
Standard Benefits.

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