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Sewer Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Sewer Machine Operator information

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$11

$17

$23

How much do sewer machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewer machine operator in Minnesota is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sewer machine operator?

Sewer Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate specialized equipment to clean, maintain, and repair sewer lines and drainage systems. Their main responsibilities include using machines such as jetters, augers, and vacuum trucks to clear blockages, remove debris, and ensure the proper flow of wastewater. They also perform routine inspections, document maintenance activities, and follow safety protocols to protect themselves and the environment. This role is essential for preventing sewage backups, minimizing environmental hazards, and maintaining public health in communities.

What is the difference between Sewer Machine Operator vs Drain Cleaner?

AspectSewer Machine OperatorDrain Cleaner
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsBasic safety training, possibly specialized certifications for equipment
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, sewer systems, underground infrastructureResidential and commercial drain systems, often accessible above ground
Job ResponsibilitiesOperating heavy machinery to clean or repair sewer linesClearing blockages, snaking drains, minor repairs

Both Sewer Machine Operators and Drain Cleaners work in the plumbing and sewer industry, often requiring safety certifications. Sewer Machine Operators typically handle heavy equipment in underground or large-scale sewer systems, while Drain Cleaners focus on clearing blockages in accessible drain lines. The roles overlap in industry and safety training but differ mainly in scope and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by sewer machine operators and how can they be overcome?

Sewer Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or hazardous environments, dealing with blockages that require precise troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment to prevent breakdowns. Effective communication with team members and adherence to safety protocols are essential for overcoming these challenges. Ongoing training and regular equipment checks also help operators stay prepared for unexpected issues, ensuring safe and efficient workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewer machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sewer Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, basic plumbing knowledge, physical stamina, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sewer cleaning equipment, CCTV inspection systems, and adherence to safety protocols are essential, and some employers may require a CDL or relevant safety certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable operators to diagnose issues and work safely within teams. These skills ensure efficient maintenance of sewer systems, prevent environmental hazards, and promote workplace safety.

What job categories do people searching Sewer Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Sewer Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Sewer Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Sewer Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Sewer Machine Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,048 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Highway Maintenance / Equipment Operator

Sherburne County

Elk River, MN • On-site

$26.41 - $37.02/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Sherburne County rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

172nd of 845 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary The Sherburne County Public Works Department is seeking a highly motivated and experienced candidate to join our Highway Maintenance team either at our Becker or Zimmerman facility location. Sherburne County is one of the fastest growing counties in Minnesota, where you can find a nice blend of suburban and rural life. Our Public Works Department is responsible for 402 miles of road within the County and there is always something that needs attention somewhere.

We pride ourselves on providing an excellent team environment that strives to be efficient and safe while serving our County. Typically, we work a Monday - Thursday, 6:00am - 4:30pm schedule in the summer and Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm schedule in the winter. Additional hours will be required during winter mainly for snow plowing.

Other additional hours may be required for storm damage cleanup, high-priority sign repairs or other emergency situations throughout the year. When called in outside of normal work hours employees are eligible to receive compensation for their time or choose to add hours into a comp bank, which may be used for time off. We strive to be flexible with schedules, especially in the summer with the understanding that snow and ice control in the winter is a top priority.

This position performs highway maintenance tasks to maintain and repair Sherburne County roads, bridges, related structures and highway maintenance equipment to provide for the safety and adequate travel and accessibility for the public. Includes all aspects of maintenance, heavy equipment operation, construction, and sign/traffic control creation and installation. Learn more about our Public Works Department, workplace culture and a brief overview of our employee benefits.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Identify potential hazards and establish safe work practices for work crew and traveling public while performing daily tasks in all types of weather and volumes of traffic. Operate heavy trucks with snow plows, underbody blades and wings to remove snow and ice accumulation. Set up, calibrate and operate computer-controlled sanders with liquid application tanks.

Identify, plan and execute complex traffic control in work zones depending on the direction, type of road and volume of traffic. Uses wide array of traffic control devices and communicating equipment (visual & verbal) to efficiently and safely move traffic through work zone. Operate heavy equipment.

Calibrate, set-up, adjust and operate trucks, loaders, graders, skid steers, tractors with attachments, shoulder machines, etc. Operates cranes, air compressor, hydraulic hammer, hydraulic post puller, drills, and hand tools. Maintain and repair roadways and bridges to include: grading surfaces, laying down gravel, paving roads, patching holes, repairing culverts and maintaining roadway shoulders.

Precisely install, remove, inspect, and replace all signs, posts, guard rails, traffic signals and painting all pavement markings according to the Minnesota uniform traffic control manual. Analyze and maintain county drainage systems. Locates, catalogs, inspects, cleans, repairs, removes and installs storm sewer, catch basins, culverts and drainage ditches.

Operations include backhoes, dozers, skidloaders, graders, maps, laser levels, metal detectors and jetters. Maintain roadways and right of way. Operate equipment (skid loaders, tractors, aerial boom truck, grinder, chipper, chainsaws) to remove trees and limbs from roads and right of way.

Maintenance tasks include mowing, vegetation spraying, ditch bank restoration, turf establishment, dead animal and debris removal. Provide work direction and oversight to seasonal workers. Create, update and maintain records and files on computer and paper.

Attend training, educational and staff meetings as assigned. Ability to respond to calls for service outside of normal work schedule. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent; and One year paid experience in the operation of highway construction and/or maintenance equipment; and Valid Class B Minnesota Driver's License with requirement to obtain Class A Minnesota Driver's License within 1 year from date of hire.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Valid Class A Minnesota Driver's License is preferred. Experience with snow removal and ice control operations in a road system environment is preferred.

A Tanker Endorsement is required for some equipment and may be obtained after hire. Supplemental Information Must be able to engage in strenuous physical activities and work in temperature extremes. Appointment is contingent upon ability to pass a physical examination, a drug test, and Bureau of Criminal Apprehension criminal history check.

Candidates will be contacted via email if you're selected for an interview after the job posting closes. First round of interviews are tentatively scheduled for August 17, 2026.


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