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Hydrovac Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Fort Wayne, IN

$16.25 - $22/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

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $22/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 ...

Phillips, Inc.

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Indianapolis, IN

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

The Hydrovac Truck Driver is responsible for operating hydrovac equipment to safely excavate soil using high-pressure water and vacuum systems. This role supports construction, utility, and ...

Phillips, Inc.

Hydrovac Truck Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

The Hydrovac Truck Driver is responsible for operating hydrovac equipment to safely excavate soil using high-pressure water and vacuum systems. This role supports construction, utility, and ...

Badger Daylighting

Operations Supervisor

Portage, IN · On-site

Reviewing operator's daily paperwork (Daily trip ticket, FLRA, DOT logs) What You'll Need For ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Operations Supervisor

Portage, IN · On-site

Reviewing operator's daily paperwork (Daily trip ticket, FLRA, DOT logs) What You'll Need For ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Dow - DOW SILICONES CORPORATION

Operator

Kendallville, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

The Operator also utilizes operations knowledge and experience, to proactively operate the plant in a safe, reliable and optimal manner. You will work with Shift Team members to efficiently ...

Dow

Operator

Kendallville, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

The Operator also utilizes operations knowledge and experience, to proactively operate the plant in a safe, reliable and optimal manner. You will work with Shift Team members to efficiently ...

Gebhart Holdings

Operator

Huntington, IN

$20/hr

An Operator is a general laborer that assists with all operations associated with production for Metal Source. REPORTS TO: Crew Supervisor SUPERVISES: N/A ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Furnace ...

Gebhart Holdings

Operator

Huntington, IN · On-site

$20/hr

An Operator is a general laborer that assists with all operations associated with production for Metal Source. REPORTS TO: Crew Supervisor SUPERVISES: N/A ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Furnace ...

Minerals Technologies

Operator

Troy, IN · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Operator Location: Troy, IN What We Offer: * Competitive pay, commensurate with experience * Health/Dental/Vision plans * 401k company match * Life Insurance * Short Term Disability & Long-Term ...

Nipro Corporation

Operator

Westport, IN · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Operator ABOUT THE ROLE: We are looking for an Operator who is experienced, hands-on, and communicative to join us in our Westport, Indiana facility. WHY YOU SHOULD APPLY: This is a unique ...

Minerals Technologies

Operator

Troy, IN · On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

Operator Location: Troy, IN What We Offer: * Competitive pay, commensurate with experience * Health/Dental/Vision plans * 401k company match * Life Insurance * Short Term Disability & Long-Term ...

Minerals Technologies

Operator

Troy, IN

$15 - $19.75/hr

Operator Location: Troy, IN What We Offer: * Competitive pay, commensurate with experience * Health/Dental/Vision plans * 401k company match * Life Insurance * Short Term Disability & Long-Term ...

Henry Community Health

Operator

New Castle, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Responsibilities Works under general supervision in operating overhead intercom systems. Answering and routing incoming calls to the correct department, patient room, or staff member. Initiates ...

Sotera Health

Operator

Columbia City, IN

$16 - $21/hr

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor or Process Supervisor, the Operator is responsible for coordinating all activities on the conveyor by organizing the work orders at the load and unload stations.

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All JobsHydrovac Operator JobsHydrovac Operator Jobs in Indiana

Hydrovac Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$19

$28

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in Indiana is $19.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $21.73 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.
More about Hydrovac Operator jobs
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What cities in Indiana are hiring for Hydrovac Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Hydrovac Operator job openings:
Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 87% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Contract, 1% Nights, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 33% Physical, 14% Hybrid, and 53% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,257 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Badger Daylighting

Fort Wayne, IN

$16.25 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? 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 construction projects. If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to be part of essential infrastructure work, apply now to join our dedicated team.

Salary: Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager.
Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse customer base, including oil and gas, energy, industrial, construction, transportation and other markets, as well as numerous government agencies within Canada and the United States. 

We hire great people from a wide array of backgrounds, not because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes Badger stronger. 

There has never been a better time to join and grow with Badger.
What We're Looking For:
  • Must have a valid Class A or B CDL
  • CPR/First Aid, Fall Protection and OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)
  • Ability to work variable shifts with extended hours
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25%
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull 50+ pounds and have the physical stamina for manual labor in varying weather conditions
  • Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
What You'll Need For Success:
  • Customer service focused and comfortable with customer interaction
  • Enthusiasm for being part of a safety-focused collaborative team
  • Technology adept
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided
  • Candidates must undergo a physical examination and complete pre-employment screenings such as a driver's abstract review and drug and alcohol test
  • This position is in a region that is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, the successful applicant may be required to join the union as a condition of employment
If you feel you don't have the experience listed above, but still think you are qualified for the job, we encourage you to apply for consideration.

What You'll Be Doing:
  • Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments, including confined spaces
  • Driving our hydrovac trucks (10-15% of total work time)
  • Attending safety meetings
  • Performing routine inspections and minor repairs of the hydrovac equipment
  • Preparing work areas by setting up safety measures and addressing potential hazards
  • Documenting and reporting all Badger, Federal, State, and Customer paperwork accurately and efficiently

Apply