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Hydrovac Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Hydro-X

Charlotte, NC - Hydrovac Laborer

Centreville, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Seventy percent or more of the job's work time is spent operating the on-board hydro- vacuum system outside the truck performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and ...

Pro-Vac

CDL Driver/ Hydrovac

Manassas Park, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Vac-Truck Operator This position requires you to be able to drive a manual transmission As a Vac-Truck Operator at Pro-Vac... You will work with the largest Vac-Con fleet in the U.S to bring ...

Pro-Vac

CDL Driver/ Hydrovac

Manassas, VA · On-site

This position requires you to be able to drive a manual transmission As a Vac-Truck Operator at Pro-Vac... You will work with the largest Vac-Con fleet in the U.S to bring sustainable environmental ...

Pro-Vac

CDL Driver/ Hydrovac

Manassas, VA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

This position requires you to be able to drive a manual transmission As a Vac-Truck Operator at Pro-Vac... You will work with the largest Vac-Con fleet in the U.S to bring sustainable environmental ...

Pro-Vac

CDL Driver/ Hydrovac

Manassas, VA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

This position requires you to be able to drive a manual transmission As a Vac-Truck Operator at Pro-Vac... You will work with the largest Vac-Con fleet in the U.S to bring sustainable environmental ...

CW and Sons Infrastructure, Inc

Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Operator must: * 3+ years of experience on large excavators (ie John Deere 180 or larger), backhoes and/or front end loaders. * Responsible for safe operation and maintenance (ie greasing) of ...

Noblis

Watch Operator

Lorton, VA · On-site

$18.25 - $22.50/hr

Serve as a Watch Operator in an integrated space operations center supporting 24/7 mission operations. * Maintain an accurate and timely Common Operating Picture to support operational decision ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Operator

Manassas Park, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for ...

Tharos Training Center

Range Operator

Upper Marlboro, MD · On-site

$19/hr

Range Operator Range Operator - Full Time Pay Rate - $19 hourly Monitors the daily range schedule. Ensures ranges are entered Hot and Cold utilizing the Brains Computer Software. Communicates Range ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Operator

Manassas Park, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Operator

Manassas Park, VA

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Operator

Manassas Park, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Operator

Manassas Park, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for ...

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All JobsHydrovac Operator JobsHydrovac Operator Jobs in Washington

Hydrovac Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in Washington is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $25.87 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 Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities in Washington with the most Hydrovac Operator job openings:

Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,916 per year, or $23 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Manassas, VA • On-site

Clearsite Industrial Services
See more jobs at Clearsite Industrial Servicesexternal

$36.37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Clearsite Industrial Services is a leading provider of hydrovac and vacuum excavation solutions, dedicated to safety, efficiency, and reliability in the construction industry. Our Manassas, VA team operates a modern fleet of hydrovac trucks to deliver safe dig services for sensitive underground utilities, ensuring our customers receive trusted and professional support.
As a Hydrovac Operator, you will play a vital role in delivering high-quality excavation and cleaning services while maintaining our commitment to safety and operational excellence. You will work closely with customers and team members, operating advanced equipment and ensuring all regulatory and company standards are met.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Operate hydrovacuum systems to perform non-destructive excavation around underground utilities
  • Carry out cleaning and vacuuming tasks, equipment mobilization, and routine truck maintenance
  • Participate in safety meetings and adhere to all safety protocols
  • Complete required company, customer, and regulatory documentation accurately
  • Communicate with on-site customer representatives to determine safe equipment positioning
  • Lead and direct subordinate personnel as needed
  • Troubleshoot equipment and perform minor repairs
  • Perform physical work including heavy lifting, working at heights, and confined space entry
  • Work flexible construction hours, including variable shifts and extended hours
  • Travel out of town or out of state as required

Requirements
Required Qualifications:
  • At least 1 year of CDL driving experience
  • Class B CDL with tanker endorsement
  • Current DOT medical certificate
  • Ability to repeatedly lift 50+ lbs
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Ability to climb ladders and work from elevated platforms
  • Ability to wear required PPE while performing job duties
  • English proficiency sufficient for safety communication and completing required documentation
  • Authorized to work in the United States
  • Comfortable driving daily to local job sites in the Richmond, VA area
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience operating hydrovac or vacuum excavation equipment
  • Experience working around underground utilities
  • OSHA 10 certification

Benefits
Compensation & Benefits
  • $36.37/hour and up
  • Overtime eligibility

Union Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits
  • Pension
  • Paid training and certification opportunities

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