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Hydro Vac Operator Driver Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Livingston Associates

Vac Truck Operator

Rochester, NY

$28 - $33/hr

We have an opening for a CDL Class B Vac Truck Operator. Location: Rochester, NY Primary Function and Scope: The Vac Truck Operator will drive a vac truck to various job sites to clear out water and ...

Loop Internet

Directional Drill Operator (HDD)

Rochester, NY · On-site

$23 - $32/hr

Operate a hydro-vac for potholing and site cleanup. * Verify all nearby utilities are exposed prior ... A valid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and the ability to maintain insurability under ...

LaBella Associates

Construction Manager

Rochester, NY · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

... Operator * Safety: Maintain safety awareness and ensure contractors comply with all safety policies ... Must have a valid Driver's License * Must be willing to travel to construction sites on a day to ...

Stantec

Party Chief (Survey Technician)

Rochester, NY · On-site

$67K - $97K/yr

Providing direction and oversight of the instrument operator. * Ensuring proper field techniques ... A valid Driver's license is required, with a clean driving record to operate company vehicle * Good ...

LaBella Associates

Construction Manager

Rochester, NY · On-site

$80K - $119K/yr

... Operator * Safety: Maintain safety awareness and ensure contractors comply with all safety policies ... Must have a valid Driver's License * Must be willing to travel to construction sites on a day to ...

All JobsHydro Vac Operator Driver JobsHydro Vac Operator Driver Jobs in Rochester, NY

Hydro Vac Operator Driver information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$37

$88

How much do hydro vac operator driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydro vac operator driver in Rochester, NY is $37.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $40.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 Hydro Vac Operator Drivers?

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 popular job titles related to Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in Rochester, NY? For Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Hydro Vac Operator Driver jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,572 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Directional Drill Operator (HDD)

Directional Drill Operator (HDD)

Greenlight Networks

Rochester, NY

$23 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

As a Directional Drill Operator (HDD) , you will be responsible for operating directional drilling equipment to install underground infrastructure while ensuring compliance with safety and company standards. Essential Functions: Operate directional drilling equipment to install conduit, vaults, and other underground infrastructure. Conduct an inspection of drilling equipment daily to ensure proper performance and safety.

Operate a hydro-vac for potholing and site cleanup. Verify all nearby utilities are exposed prior to drilling. Follow safety protocols and maintain a clean and organized work area.

Be able to properly setup drilling equipment for successful and efficient bore shots based on environment and ground conditions. Be able to read and understand project prints. Safely operate a pick-up truck or bigger while towing a trailer.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: High school diploma or equivalent. 2-5 years of proven experience operating a Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) / locating. 2-5 years of directional drill locating experience - preferably DCI F series locators.

CDL-A license preferred. This role requires the operation of a company vehicle. A valid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and the ability to maintain insurability under the company's auto policy are essential.

Strong understanding of directional drilling techniques and utility installation. Strong ability to perform basic maintenance on directional drills. Ability to read and interpret project prints.

Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Ability to perform physical labor and lift heavy objects. Good communications skills and the ability to work as part of a team.

Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic. Ability to stand for long periods of time, able to scoop, bend, and lift up to 75lbs. Ability to work in the following environments: Outside.

Hot, cold, rain, snow. Ability to travel out of state when required. Ability to be on call.

Compensation: Our job titles may span more than one career level. The hourly pay-range for this position is $23.00/hr - $32.00/hr. The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location

The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at www.greenlightnetworks.com/careers/ .This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

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