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Hydrovac Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Buffalo, NY

$34.31/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Douglasville, GA · On-site

$30/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience (preferred) * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $22.25/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Gretna, NE · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Guthrie, OK

$32/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Guthrie, OK · On-site

$32/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

East Haven, CT · On-site

$48.74/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Worcester, MA

$45.79/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI

$17.75 - $24/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred * Must be at least ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Johnston, RI · On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Geismar, LA · On-site

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * You will undergo a physical ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Hutto, TX · On-site

$30/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Hutto, TX · On-site

$30/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Alvin, TX · On-site

$30/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Caldwell, ID · On-site

$28/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Alvin, TX

$30/hr

Technology adept * Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided * Candidates must undergo a ... hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$30/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Madison, TN · On-site

$30/hr

Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

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Hydrovac Tech information

See salary details

$9

$27

$51

How much do hydrovac tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for hydrovac tech in the United States is $27.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hydrovac tech?

Hydrovac Techs, short for Hydrovac Technicians, are skilled professionals who operate hydrovac trucks to perform non-destructive excavation using high-pressure water and a powerful vacuum system. They safely expose underground utilities, pipelines, or cables without causing damage, which is essential for construction, utility maintenance, and repair projects. Hydrovac Techs are trained in safety procedures, equipment operation, and site preparation to ensure efficient and safe excavation. Their work is crucial in preventing costly damages and ensuring compliance with regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hydrovac tech?

To thrive as a Hydrovac Tech, you need a solid understanding of excavation safety, equipment operation, and a valid driver’s license—often a CDL. Familiarity with hydrovac trucks, vacuum systems, and related safety certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help ensure safe and efficient job site operations. These skills and qualities are crucial to prevent accidents, protect underground utilities, and deliver high-quality service to clients.

What are some common challenges hydrovac techs encounter on the job, and how can they be managed?

Hydrovac Techs frequently work in varying weather conditions and on diverse job sites, which can present challenges such as working with heavy equipment in muddy or confined areas. Safety is a top priority, as the job involves high-pressure water and powerful vacuums near underground utilities. Effective communication with team members and site supervisors helps ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently. Staying up to date with training and safety protocols is essential for managing these challenges and maintaining a productive work environment.

What is the difference between Hydrovac Tech vs Vacuum Truck Operator?

AspectHydrovac TechVacuum Truck Operator
CertificationsHydrovac certification, CDL often preferredCDL required, some certifications optional
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility work, excavation projectsIndustrial sites, waste management, environmental cleanup
Job ResponsibilitiesHydro excavation, potholing, debris removalOperating vacuum trucks, waste suction, transport

Hydrovac Techs specialize in hydro excavation using high-pressure water and vacuum systems, often requiring specific certifications. Vacuum Truck Operators focus on operating vacuum trucks for waste removal and transport, typically needing a CDL. While both roles involve vacuum systems, Hydrovac Techs are more involved in excavation and utility work, whereas Vacuum Truck Operators handle waste management tasks. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the industry.

What does a hydrovac technician do?

A hydrovac technician operates high-pressure water and vacuum equipment to excavate soil and debris safely and precisely, often in construction, utility, or excavation projects. They set up, operate, and maintain the hydrovac systems, working in various environments and following safety protocols. The role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and knowledge of underground utility locations.
More about Hydrovac Tech jobs

What cities are hiring for Hydrovac Tech jobs?

Cities with the most Hydrovac Tech job openings:

What states have the most Hydrovac Tech jobs?

States with the most job openings for Hydrovac Tech jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Hydrovac Tech jobs?

For Hydrovac Tech jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Hydrovac Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hydrovac Tech job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,446 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Buffalo, NY

Badger Daylighting
Construction • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Badger Daylightingexternal

$34.31/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Badger Infrastructure Solutions rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? 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 construction projects. If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to be part of essential infrastructure work, apply now to join our dedicated team.

 
Salary: Union wages and benefits to be discussed directly with the Branch Manager with starting rate of $34.31 per hour.
Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non-destructive hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse customer base, including oil and gas, energy, industrial, construction, transportation and other markets, as well as numerous government agencies within Canada and the United States. 

We hire great people from a wide array of backgrounds, not because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes Badger stronger. 

There has never been a better time to join and grow with Badger.
What We're Looking For:
  • Must have a valid Class A or B CDL
  • CPR/First Aid, Fall Protection and OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)
  • Ability to work variable shifts with extended hours
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25%
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull 50+ pounds and have the physical stamina for manual labor in varying weather conditions
  • Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred
  • Must be at least 21 years of age
What You'll Need For Success:
  • Customer service focused and comfortable with customer interaction
  • Enthusiasm for being part of a safety-focused collaborative team
  • Technology adept
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided
  • Candidates must undergo a physical examination and complete pre-employment screenings such as a driver's abstract review and drug and alcohol test
  • This position is in a region that is covered under a collective bargaining agreement, the successful applicant may be required to join the union as a condition of employment
If you feel you don't have the experience listed above, but still think you are qualified for the job, we encourage you to apply for consideration.

What You'll Be Doing:
  • Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments, including confined spaces
  • Driving our hydrovac trucks (10-15% of total work time)
  • Attending safety meetings
  • Performing routine inspections and minor repairs of the hydrovac equipment
  • Preparing work areas by setting up safety measures and addressing potential hazards
  • Documenting and reporting all Badger, Federal, State, and Customer paperwork accurately and efficiently

What Badger Infrastructure Solutions employees say

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