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Hydrovac Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

NOVARES

Operator

Janesville, WI

$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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

$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 ...

Molson Coors

Operator

Watertown, WI

$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 ...

Allied Reliability

Associate Operator

Arcadia, WI

$17.50 - $23/hr

As an Associate Operator, you will be responsible for the manufacturing of new and existing products according to a pre-determined operations plan by the hands-on operation of process equipment, in ...

Miller Pipeline

Operator - Gas

Burlington, WI

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Miller Pipeline is looking for Operators who can safely operate heavy equipment around overhead and underground utilities. Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior ...

Miller Pipeline

Operator - Gas

Burlington, WI · On-site

$18.50 - $24.25/hr

Miller Pipeline is looking for Operators who can safely operate heavy equipment around overhead and underground utilities. Successful candidates must be able to communicate effectively, have prior ...

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

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

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Cities in Wisconsin with the most Hydrovac Operator job openings:

Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,702 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

CDL Laborer

ITG Communications

Kaukauna, WI • On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

ITG Communications rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

ITG Communications is hiring a CDL Laborer I in Kaukauna, WI.
The company is seeking CDL Class A Laborers who are responsible for aiding daily operations at our construction sites. This position will operate various types of company vehicles including 1 ½, 2- and 5-ton pickups as well as hydrovac trucks. Candidate will be driving 10-15 percent of the workday depending on the daily needs determined by workload and task. The company drivers are required to assist with various other task while not driving included but not limited to help hydro excavate, backfill holes, restoration and install various other fiber products. They will load and unload tools, raw materials, or pieces of equipment and dig or fill in pits throughout the construction process.
Responsibilities
  • Perform daily vehicle inspections for DOT compliance
  • Ensure safety of the company employees and public safety while operating a company vehicle
  • Responsible for load securement to comply with federal, state, and local requirements
  • Ensure proper maintenance is being followed
  • Use both types of hydro-vac to safety hydro excavate utilities (drivable and pull-behind)
  • Trench, place duct, pull cable, and direct bury main-line and drops
  • Perform restoration back to existing conditions
  • At a minimum, the position requires a good working knowledge of telecommunications construction, familiarity with Horizontal Directional -Drills and aerial buck trucks, ability to use cable placement equipment and tools, ability to identify and troubleshoot problems
  • Individuals must be able to read prints and have knowledge of the aerial/underground process
  • Locate & verify all utilities before construction
  • Maintain accuracy in all reporting functions
  • Assist with safety events and is constantly on the lookout for changing conditions
  • Assist Laborers with hand digging, potholing, handhole installation and restoration work when needed
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Crew Lead or Foreman
  • Ensure equipment is in proper working order and that all systems are working correctly
  • Perform basic upkeep and maintenance of the equipment and communicate any equipment malfunctions or repair needs with the supervisor
  • Communicate with fellow team members using hand or audio signals, to ensure the safe operation of The company equipment
  • Operate other hand and power tools of all types: power brooms, earth tampers, concrete saws, cement mixers, and various other equipment and tools

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Must have valid CDL A, tanker endorsement preferred
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Strong work ethic
  • Intermediate level skillset with 3-5 years experience (with possible intermediate equipment operator experience)
  • Must have good communication skills and a positive attitude
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • The ability to work safely, with or without supervision
  • 1-3 years of experience operating underground construction equipment such as those describe above, required

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit
  • Ability to use hands to handle or feet
  • Ability to reach with hands and arms
  • Ability to climb and balance
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend and crawl
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs
  • Ability to maintain all safety expectations

Additional Comments
ITG is an equal employment opportunity employer. ITG's policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (40 and over), disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. ITG also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also ITG's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.

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