ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Hydrovac Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bully Industrial LLC

Hydrovac Operator

Broussard, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Bully is looking for experienced Hydrovac Operators. Operators need a minimum of Class B CDL with tanker and airbrake endorsement. Essential Functions: • CDL-A or CDL-B driver's license required ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

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 ...

NG Companies

Hydrovac Operator

El Paso, TX · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will have experience ...

NG Companies

Hydrovac Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will have experience ...

NG Companies

Hydrovac Operator

Longmont, CO

$30 - $36/hr

Description The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will ...

NG Companies

Hydrovac Operator

Charlotte, NC

$17.25 - $23.25/hr

Description The Hydrovac Operator will be responsible for operating a hydrovac truck and equipment to excavate underground utility lines, pipelines, and other structures. The ideal candidate will ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Sandy, UT · On-site

$30/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 ...

Clearsite Industrial Services

Hydrovac Operator

Tampa, FL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

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 ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Sherwood, OR · On-site

$33/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

Woodinville, WA · On-site

$34.14/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

Sparks, NV · On-site

$43.92/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 Jobs

Hydrovac Operator information

See salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do hydrovac operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Hydrovac operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; their pay depends on experience, location, and job complexity. High-paying roles in specialized fields like construction or oil and gas may reach such daily rates, especially for experienced workers with certifications and operating heavy equipment. These roles often require specific skills, safety training, and sometimes union membership.

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 techniques.

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 jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Hydrovac operators can potentially earn around $10,000 per month with experience, especially in high-demand areas or specialized roles, as they often receive competitive wages due to the physical nature and skill required. Achieving this income typically involves working full-time, gaining certifications, and accumulating significant experience in the field.

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.

How much do hydrovac workers make?

Hydrovac operators typically earn between $20 and $35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the job. Many operators also receive benefits and overtime pay, especially when working in remote or demanding environments.
More about Hydrovac Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Hydrovac Operator jobs? Cities with the most Hydrovac Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hydrovac Operator jobs? The most popular types of Hydrovac Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Hydrovac Operator jobs? The top employers for Hydrovac Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Hydrovac Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Hydrovac Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hydrovac Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hydrovac Operator jobs are:
Hydrovac Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Bully Industrial LLC

Broussard, LA • On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Bully is looking for experienced Hydrovac Operators. Operators need a minimum of Class B CDL with tanker and airbrake endorsement.


Essential Functions:

• CDL-A or CDL-B driver's license required with Tanker endorsement and no restrictions

• Properly document all Company, Federal, State, and Customer documentation/paperwork as required by law and or established policy in a clear and legible manner

• Able to effectively and professionally communicate with on-sight customer representative to locate least intrusive and safest place to park company equipment while on job sight

• Able to lead and direct subordinate personnel to perform duties/tasks in a safe, timely, and efficient manner

• Able to troubleshoot and as the need arises perform minor repairs to equipment

• Safety mindedness is essential

• Travel out of town and out of state to work will be required

• Must be able to lift, push, pull 60+ pounds and work heavy equipment

• Must be willing to work flexible hours

• Must be at least 21 years of age

• Must be comfortable navigating field tool applications.

Qualifications:

Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent and TWIC card certification is required.

• Previous experience in Hydrovac operations or other related fields

• Familiarity with Hydrovac tools and equipment

• Strong troubleshooting and critical thinking skills

• Ability to handle physical workload

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment


Benefits:

• Opportunities for advancement

• Dental insurance

• Health insurance

• Vision Insurance

• 401K


Compensation:

Compensation with be commensurate with experience and qualifications