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Hydrovac Operator Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Black & McDonald Limited

Hydrovac Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

Reporting to the Project Manager, or their designate, the primary role of the Hydrovac Operator is to execute the excavation process in a safe and efficient manner, without damaging the underground ...

Black & McDonald Limited

Hydrovac Operator

Calgary, AB · On-site

Reporting to the Project Manager, or their designate, the primary role of the Hydrovac Operator is to execute the excavation process in a safe and efficient manner, without damaging the underground ...

Black & McDonald Limited

Hydrovac Operator

Calgary, AB · On-site

Reporting to the Project Manager, or their designate, the primary role of the Hydrovac Operator is to execute the excavation process in a safe and efficient manner, without damaging the underground ...

Black & McDonald Limited

Hydrovac Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

Reporting to the Project Manager, or their designate, the primary role of the Hydrovac Operator is to execute the excavation process in a safe and efficient manner, without damaging the underground ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Whitecourt, AB · On-site

CA$30 - CA$36/hr

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

CA$33/hr

Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various ...

Spartan Hydrovac

HydroVac Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

Spartan Hydro Vac Services Ltd. is a professionally operated hydro vacuum excavation company headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The Company delivers hydro vac excavation and industrial services to ...

Spartan Hydrovac

Hydrovac Operator

Edmonton, AB · On-site

Spartan Hydro Vac Services Ltd. is a professionally operated hydro vacuum excavation company headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The Company delivers hydro vac excavation and industrial services to ...

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Hydrovac Operator information

See Alberta salary details

$12

$26

$38

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in Alberta is $26.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

How much do hydrovac operators make?

Hydrovac operators in the United States typically earn between $20 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $40,000 to $60,000. Wages can vary based on experience, certifications, and geographic location, with higher pay often available for skilled operators working in industrial or high-demand areas.
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For Hydrovac Operator jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Hydrovac Operator jobs in Alberta are:

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Cities in Alberta with the most Hydrovac Operator job openings:

Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,144 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Edmonton, AB • On-site

Black & McDonald Limited
See more jobs at Black & McDonald Limitedexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THIS CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Black & McDonald's Edmonton Utilities team is growing! If you are committed and collaborative professional looking to contribute to a hard-working, innovative team, this opportunity is for you.

Reporting to the Project Manager, or their designate, the primary role of the Hydrovac Operator is to execute the excavation process in a safe and efficient manner, without damaging the underground utilities and pipelines in various project sites.

Duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Operate Hydrovac trucks and related equipment safely
  • Perform minor repairs and maintenance on equipment; troubleshooting technical issues
  • Operate auxiliary equipment, such as backhoes or skid-steer loaders
  • Complete required paperwork and documentation
  • Use hand and power tools effectively
  • Perform basic vehicle maintenance and inspection
  • Control traffic and perform work zone safety procedures
  • Comply with all regulations at all times, including Black & McDonald's safety protocols
  • Perform other activities at construction sites, as directed

COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

  • Change Orientation (open to change and the ability to identify where it is needed and how to make it happen)
  • Communicates Effectively (verbally and in writing)
  • Continuous Learning (ongoing effort to learn and contribute to the learnings of others)
  • Customer Focus (understands the needs and perspectives of both internal and external customers)
  • Holds Self and Others Accountable (takes personal responsibility to meet commitments)
  • Problem Solving and Innovation (ability to approach problems logically and seek innovative solutions)
  • Teamwork and Collaboration (works cooperatively and collaboratively with others)
  • Values and Respects Others (encourages and supports diversity)

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • 2-5 years' experience operating a Hydrovac

SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

  • Understanding of: underground utilities and infrastructure, hydro excavation techniques and best
    practices, soil classification and excavation limitations, environmental regulations and safety protocols
  • Ability to read and interpret project plans and blueprints
  • Knowledge of first aid and emergency response procedures
  • Possess personal attributes which include being safety conscious, problem-solving abilities, high attention to detail, adaptability, ability to work independently, and takes initiative
  • Physical fitness and stamina to handle manual labour and work in various weather conditions
  • Class 1 Driver's License with Q endorsement

Construction Safety Certifications including the following are considered assets.

  • Ground Disturbance Level II
  • Equipment Bonding for Hydrovac Operators
  • Fall Protection for Rig Workers
  • H2S Alive
  • First Aid

All applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada. Successful candidates may be required to undergo a pre-access drug and alcohol test as a condition of employment.

Black & McDonald welcomes and encourages applications from persons with accessibility accommodation requirements. Accessibility accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment and selection process.

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    Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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