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Hydrovac Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

L&H Hydrovac, LLC

Hydrovac Operator

Newton, IA

$40/hr

Hydrovac Operator Pay: $40.00 Employment Type: Full-Time | Hourly (Non-Exempt) Department: L&H Hydrovac, LLC Reports To: Field Supervisor Why You'll Love This Role If you enjoy hands-on work, leading ...

L&H Hydrovac, LLC

Hydrovac Operator

Winterset, IA

$40/hr

Hydrovac Operator Pay: $40.00 Employment Type: Full-Time | Hourly (Non-Exempt) Department: L&H Hydrovac, LLC Reports To: Field Supervisor Why You'll Love This Role If you enjoy hands-on work, leading ...

Bear Energy Services LLC

HYDROVAC OPERATOR

Barstow, TX · On-site

$32/hr

The Hydrovac Operator plays a critical role in safely and efficiently excavating soil and debris using high-pressure water and vacuum technology. This position is essential for supporting ...

CDH Inc.

Hydrovac Operator

Ponca City, OK

$30/hr

Hydrovac Operator for CD&H Inc. $30 100% Free Medical and Dental insurance to the Employee / Vacation within 90 days of Employment / Paid Holidays Safety-Driven & Family-Oriented Company ...

CDH Inc.

Hydrovac Operator

Ponca City, OK · On-site

$30/hr

Hydrovac Operator for CD&H Inc. $30 100% Free Medical and Dental insurance to the Employee / Vacation within 90 days of Employment / Paid Holidays Safety-Driven & Family-Oriented Company ...

PCM & Affiliated Companies

HydroVac Operator

Scott, LA

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Hydrovac Operator w/ CDL Reports To: Hydrovac Manager Summary: The Hydrovac system is a non-destructive method of excavating as an alternative to mechanical equipment or hand-digging. The Hydrovac ...

TTK Enterprises

Hydrovac Operator

Watford City, ND · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

The Hydrovac Operator plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity of underground assets while adhering to strict safety and environmental standards. Duties and Responsibilities: * Operate ...

Peak Utility Services Group

Hydrovac Operator

Las Vegas, NV

$16.75 - $19.25/hr

Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Classification: Non-Exempt Essential Functions: Hydrovac Operators are skilled laborers running machinery ...

Superior Pipeline Services

Hydrovac Operator

Independence, MO · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Classification: Non-Exempt Essential Functions: Hydrovac Operators are skilled laborers running machinery ...

PCM & Affiliated Companies

HydroVac Operator

Scott, LA

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Hydrovac Operator w/ CDL Reports To: Hydrovac Manager Summary: The Hydrovac system is a non-destructive method of excavating as an alternative to mechanical equipment or hand-digging. The Hydrovac ...

Peak Utility Services Group

Hydrovac Operator

New Boston, MI

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Hydrovac Operator Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care. Classification: Non-Exempt Essential Functions: Hydrovac Operators are skilled laborers running machinery ...

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Hydrovac Operator information

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$12

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$29

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Hydrovac Operators on the job, and how can they be managed?

Hydrovac Operators often work in varying weather conditions and challenging environments, such as construction sites or alongside busy roads. Managing safety risks, such as underground utility strikes and equipment handling, is a key challenge, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and ongoing training. Communication with team members and clients is also crucial to ensure precise excavation and project efficiency. Staying organized and maintaining equipment regularly helps prevent downtime and ensures smooth operations.

What Does a Hydrovac Operator Do?

As a Hydrovac operator, you use a Hydrovac excavator to remove soil from a location. While your exact responsibilities can vary from job to job, they usually have you operate the Hydrovac to remove debris from a job site. You use a high-pressure wand to loosen the soil and a vacuum system to remove the debris or build-up. You assist in all cleaning operations to ensure the Hydrovac unit operates at maximum capacity. Other duties include ensuring Hydrovac systems comply with all local codes, conducting routine maintenance, and completing chemical cleanup of storage tanks. In some cases, you might work with a team of operators.

How do you become a hydrovac operator?

To become a hydrovac operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training on operating hydrovac equipment. Many employers require a valid driver's license and may provide on-the-job training or certification in safe equipment operation and excavation procedures.

How much does a hydrovac truck make?

Hydrovac operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $70,000 depending on experience, location, and company. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in excavation safety may earn higher wages, especially in regions with high demand for underground utility work.

What is a Hydrovac Operator?

A Hydrovac Operator is a skilled professional who operates hydrovac trucks, which use high-pressure water and a powerful vacuum system to excavate soil and debris safely and efficiently. This method, known as hydro excavation, is commonly used to expose underground utilities, remove debris, or dig trenches with minimal risk of damaging existing infrastructure. Hydrovac Operators are responsible for controlling the equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and performing routine maintenance on the machinery. The job often requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and adherence to safety standards, especially when working near utilities or in challenging weather conditions.

What is the difference between Hydrovac Operator vs Vacuum Truck Operator?

AspectHydrovac OperatorVacuum Truck Operator
CertificationsHydrovac certification, CDL often preferredCDL required, vacuum truck operation training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, excavation projects, utility workIndustrial sites, waste management, environmental cleanup
Job TasksExcavation, potholing, hydro excavationVacuuming liquids, solids, transporting waste

Both roles involve operating trucks with vacuum or hydro excavation equipment, often requiring similar certifications like a CDL. Hydrovac Operators focus on precise excavation using high-pressure water and vacuum, mainly in construction and utility sectors. Vacuum Truck Operators handle waste removal and transport, working in industrial and environmental settings. While overlapping in equipment and certifications, their primary tasks and work environments differ.

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

To thrive as a Hydrovac Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), a solid understanding of excavation techniques, and adherence to safety regulations. Familiarity with hydrovac trucks, vacuum excavation systems, and GPS or utility locating devices is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, precise excavation and to prevent damage to underground utilities and infrastructures.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Hydrovac operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in high-demand areas or specialized projects, without requiring a college degree. These roles often involve physical work, operating heavy equipment, and may require certifications or training. High-paying skilled trades like construction, plumbing, or electrical work can also reach this income level through experience and union membership.

Is there demand for hydrovac operators?

Hydrovac operators are in demand in industries such as construction, excavation, and utility maintenance due to the increasing need for safe and efficient excavation methods. The job often requires specialized training and certification, and employment opportunities are expected to grow as infrastructure projects expand and environmental regulations become stricter.
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Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 15% Full Time, 83% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 52% Physical, and 48% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

L&H Hydrovac, LLC

Newton, IA

$40/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Hydrovac Operator

Pay: $40.00
Employment Type: Full-Time | Hourly (Non-Exempt)
Department: L&H Hydrovac, LLC
Reports To: Field Supervisor

Why You’ll Love This Role

If you enjoy hands-on work, leading a crew, and working outdoors, this is the job for you. As a Hydrovac Operator, you’ll operate specialized excavation equipment, lead a field crew, and play a key role in completing high-impact projects safely and efficiently.

What You’ll Do

  • Operate hydrovac trucks and equipment safely and professionally
  • Lead and support a crew of Hydrovac Laborers
  • Perform hydro excavation tasks such as utility exposure, slot trenching, and debris removal
  • Conduct pre- and post-trip inspections and basic equipment maintenance
  • Ensure job sites meet safety, quality, and client standards
  • Complete required paperwork accurately and on time

What We’re Looking For

  • Experience operating heavy equipment (hydrovac experience preferred)
  • CDL Class A or B with Tanker and Manual Endorsements (required)
  • Knowledge of basic underground utilities
  • Strong safety mindset and leadership skills
  • Ability to work efficiently and communicate effectively as part of a team

Work Environment & Schedule

  • Outdoor, hands-on work at job sites
  • Exposure to heavy equipment and loud environments (PPE provided)
  • Flexible schedule with potential evenings and weekends
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical job duties

Ready to Get Started?

Join a growing team where your skills are valued, and your leadership makes a difference. Apply today and help us safely uncover what’s underground.


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