ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Hydrovac Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Beach HydroVac

The Hydrovac Operator will operate a 12yd. hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation, daylight utilities, and support commercial construction and infrastructure projects. Daily ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$30.50/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

Chester, VA · On-site

$30.50/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

Richmond, VA · On-site

$30.50/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

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/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

Richmond, VA · On-site

$30.50/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

Richmond, VA · On-site

$30.50/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

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHydrovac Operator JobsHydrovac Operator Jobs in Virginia

Hydrovac Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in Virginia is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.64 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.
More about Hydrovac Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Hydrovac Operator jobs in Virginia?

For Hydrovac Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hydrovac Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

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

Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,944 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Beach HydroVac

On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Company Description Beach HydroVac is a local, large-capacity hydro excavation service provider serving the Hampton Roads, Virginia Metropolitan Area. The company specializes in safe, precise excavation using advanced hydrovac equipment for a variety of commercial and infrastructure projects. As a locally focused team, Beach HydroVac emphasizes reliability, responsiveness, and high-quality service for regional clients. Team members benefit from working with modern equipment and learning best practices in hydro excavation in a supportive, safety-driven environment.

Role Description This is a full-time Hydrovac Operator role in a hybrid arrangement, based in the Hampton Roads, Virginia Metropolitan Area. The Hydrovac Operator will operate a 12yd. hydrovac truck to perform non-destructive excavation, daylight utilities, and support commercial construction and infrastructure projects. Daily responsibilities include setting up work sites, following all safety protocols, using fall protection equipment as required, and conducting pre- and post-trip inspections of vehicles and equipment. The role involves communicating with site supervisors and customers, documenting work performed, and completing basic paperwork or digital job reports from the field and home. The Hydrovac Operator will also assist with routine equipment maintenance, uphold company standards for cleanliness and organization, and support other team members as needed.

Qualifications

  • Strong excavation and hydro excavation skills, with experience safely exposing underground utilities and working around existing infrastructure.
  • Proficiency with heavy equipment operation, including hydrovac trucks and related machinery, and comfort with pre-trip inspections and basic maintenance.
  • Knowledge of fall protection practices and adherence to safety protocols and OSHA or industry safety standards on active job sites.
  • Experience in commercial construction environments and familiarity with job site procedures, work orders, and coordination with contractors.
  • Demonstrated customer service skills, including clear communication, professionalism on-site, and the ability to represent the company positively.
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record; a CDL and prior hydrovac or vacuum truck experience are highly beneficial.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting, standing for extended periods, and working in varied outdoor conditions.
  • Reliable time management, attention to detail in documentation, and comfort using basic digital tools for reports and communication.
  • Commitment to teamwork, continuous learning, and following company policies and safety procedures.

Apply