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Hydrovac Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.

Hydrovac Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

The Hydrovac Operator is proficient in the operations of removing debris from a specific location and maintaining the Hydrovac unit to ensure the system operates at maximum capacity. Must possess ...

TD&I Cable

Hydrovac Operator

Roberts, WI

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Description The Hydrovac Operator is proficient in the operations of removing debris from a specific location and maintaining the Hydrovac unit to ensure the system operates at maximum capacity. Must ...

TD&I Cable Maintenance LLC

Hydrovac Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Job Type Full-time Description The Hydrovac Operator is proficient in the operations of removing debris from a specific location and maintaining the Hydrovac unit to ensure the system operates at ...

ITG Communications

CDL Laborer

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

... hydrovac trucks. Candidate will be driving 10-15 percent of the workday depending on the daily ... Ensure safety of the company employees and public safety while operating a company vehicle

Elementis

Operator

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Summary Operators are responsible for monitoring and maintaining liquid tanks, filtering, transferring, and adjustments of liquids, manufacturing of batches, filling of finished product containers ...

United Dredging

Operator

Ellsworth, WI

$50K - $70K/yr

Operator 1 Compensation:$20.00 - $28.00 per hour (depending on experience) Position Summary Operator 1 is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the operation of dredging and related ...

United Dredging

Operator

Ellsworth, WI · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Operator 1 Compensation: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour (depending on experience) Position Summary Operator 1 is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the operation of dredging and related ...

Revolution Company

Operator

Hudson, WI · On-site

$21/hr

Revolution is growing and we're looking for motivated Line Operators to join our team in Hudson, WI! The Perks of Working Here We're committed to providing our employees with meaningful benefits and ...

NOVARES

Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$16 - $21.25/hr

Ensure that instructions are communicated to the next shift team's operator. Abilities: - Manual dexterity to assemble, operate, adjust and inspect - Near vision to handle small parts and to detect ...

City of Janesville, WI

Operator

Janesville, WI · On-site

$44K/yr

The Operator is responsible for operating a variety of equipment in the construction, repair, maintenance, and replacement of City streets and alleys, public right-of-way, stormwater system ...

WEG

Operator

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

WEG Coatings LLC., located in Manitowoc, WI, is a privately owned and operated company that custom formulates, develops, manufactures, sells, and applies high performance coatings. These include ...

WEG Electric Corp

Operator

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

WEG Coatings LLC., located in Manitowoc, WI, is a privately owned and operated company that custom formulates, develops, manufactures, sells, and applies high performance coatings. These include ...

WEG Electric Corp

Operator

Manitowoc, WI

$17 - $22.25/hr

WEG Coatings LLC., located in Manitowoc, WI, is a privately owned and operated company that custom formulates, develops, manufactures, sells, and applies high performance coatings. These include ...

Ascend Services, Inc.

Operator

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $18.50/hr

Experience operating forklifts is desired. * Prior skid steer operation experience is a plus. SKILLS: * Ability to operate balers, conveyors, forklifts, and potentially skid steers. * Ability to ...

Ascend Services, Inc.

Operator

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $18.50/hr

Experience operating forklifts is desired. * Prior skid steer operation experience is a plus. SKILLS: * Ability to operate balers, conveyors, forklifts, and potentially skid steers. * Ability to ...

Co-Staff Job Board

Finish Operator

East Troy, WI · On-site

$18.55/hr

Finish Operator (2nd & 3rd Shift) Location: East Troy, WI Position Type: Temp-to-Hire (T-H) Pay Rate: $18.55 per hour Available Shifts 2nd Shift Monday-Friday | 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM 3rd Shift Sunday ...

Molson Coors

Operator

Watertown, WI · On-site

$23K/mo

In the role of Senior Resource Technican (Operator) working in the Watertown Hops Plant you will be part of the production team. You will be running processes with responsibilities in repairing ...

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All JobsHydrovac Operator JobsHydrovac Operator Jobs in Wisconsin

Hydrovac Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$20

$30

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in Wisconsin is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $23.03 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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Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in Wisconsin 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 $42,702 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Roberts, WI • On-site

TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.
Telecommunications • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about TD&I Cable Maintenance, Inc.external

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description:

The Hydrovac Operator is proficient in the operations of removing debris from a specific location and maintaining the Hydrovac unit to ensure the system operates at maximum capacity. Must possess excavation knowledge of OSHA regulations and safe excavation practices – performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground piping and cables, operating a high-pressure wand, and prepping and dismantling the unit and grounding per job site.

Requirements:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Operate hydro vacuum excavation equipment to safely expose underground utilities

· Ensure maintenance/safe operation of the assigned equipment.

· Accurately perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections and report deficiencies daily

· Understand and enforce the project’s detailed scope of work to maintain strict compliance with contract documents, project schedules, policies, and procedures.

· Ability to work in varying dimensions, such as squatting and crawling for possible extended periods of time.

· Ability to work in various weather conditions.

· Ensure pre- and post-vehicle inspection.

· Maintain and protect all equipment in excellent condition

· Communicate effectively with crew members and clients.

· Willing to travel throughout TD&I’s territory as needed.

· Perform any other tasks assigned to support and improve overall team operations

Minimum Skills & Experience Required:

· Requires High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent reading, writing, and reasoning skills)

· 2-5 years of experience operating vacuum trucks (or similar equipment)

· Additional experience related to manual labor.

· A valid CDL Class A Commercial Driver’s License (Tanker endorsement required or willing to obtain)

· Ability to lift 50 pounds.

· In-depth knowledge of construction procedures, equipment, OSHA, and FMCSA/DOT guidelines

· Excellent organizational and leadership skills

· Ability to communicate and report effectively, problem-solving abilities.

· Good physical condition and stamina

Preferred Skills & Experience:

· Tanker endorsement helpful but will be provided to the right candidate