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Sludge Truck Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gulf Stream

Vacuum Truck Driver/Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

Vacuum Truck Driver/Operator The Vacuum Truck Driver/Operator is responsible for safely operating a vacuum truck and associated equipment to transport, load, and unload liquid, sludge, slurry, or dry ...

Inframark

Semi-Truck Driver

Fayetteville, AR · On-site

Truck Driver The Truck Driver plays a vital role within the organization by operating vehicles and ... This includes the operation of dewatering systems and transporting dewatered sludge to designated ...

Envirovac

CDL Vac Truck Operator

Sulphur, LA · On-site

Perform efficient removal of various waste materials, liquids, sludge, and debris from tanks, pits ... EOE Truck Driver Local Truck Driver Process Operator Plant Operator CDL Class A CDL Class B Heavy ...

Hire Velocity, LLC

CDL Vac Truck Operator

Sulphur, LA · On-site

Perform efficient removal of various waste materials, liquids, sludge, and debris from tanks, pits ... EOE Truck Driver Local Truck Driver Process Operator Plant Operator CDL Class A CDL Class B Heavy ...

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Sludge Truck Driver information

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$10

$27

$49

How much do sludge truck driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for sludge truck driver in the United States is $27.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sludge truck driver?

Sludge truck drivers are professionals responsible for transporting liquid or semi-solid waste materials, commonly referred to as 'sludge', from wastewater treatment plants, industrial sites, or septic systems to designated disposal or treatment facilities. They operate specialized vehicles designed to safely contain and move sludge, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Sludge truck drivers often perform routine inspections and maintenance on their vehicles and may assist with loading and unloading the material. Their work helps prevent environmental contamination and supports the safe management of waste. Good driving skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of regulatory requirements are important for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sludge truck driver?

To thrive as a Sludge Truck Driver, you need a valid commercial driver's license (CDL), a strong safety record, and knowledge of waste handling regulations. Familiarity with hydraulic systems, GPS navigation, and electronic logging devices (ELDs) is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills help ensure safe operations and effective coordination with treatment facilities. These abilities are essential for maintaining regulatory compliance, protecting the environment, and ensuring timely and safe transport of waste materials.

What are some common challenges faced by sludge truck drivers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Sludge truck drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating large vehicles through confined spaces at treatment plants, dealing with varying weather conditions, and ensuring the safe transport of potentially hazardous materials. To manage these challenges, drivers must adhere strictly to safety protocols, maintain up-to-date knowledge of local traffic and environmental regulations, and communicate effectively with plant operators and dispatchers. Continuous training and a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance are also essential to ensure smooth and safe operations.

What is the difference between Sludge Truck Driver vs Vacuum Truck Driver?

AspectSludge Truck DriverVacuum Truck Driver
CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), often Class B or ACommercial Driver's License (CDL), often Class B or A
Work EnvironmentTransporting and dumping sludge or waste materials, often in wastewater or sewage plantsUsing vacuum equipment to extract liquids or solids, working in industrial or municipal settings
Industry UsageWaste management, sewage, and wastewater industriesEnvironmental services, waste removal, and industrial cleaning

Both Sludge Truck Drivers and Vacuum Truck Drivers require similar CDL credentials and work in waste-related industries. The main difference lies in their specific tasks: Sludge Truck Drivers typically transport and dump sludge, while Vacuum Truck Drivers operate vacuum equipment to extract materials. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Sludge Truck Driver jobs?

For Sludge Truck Driver jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sludge Truck Driver job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,348 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Vacuum Truck Driver/Operator

Charleston, SC • On-site

Gulf Stream
See more jobs at Gulf Streamexternal

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Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Vacuum Truck Driver/Operator

The Vacuum Truck Driver/Operator is responsible for safely operating a vacuum truck and associated equipment to transport, load, and unload liquid, sludge, slurry, or dry materials from various sites. This role requires strict adherence to safety standards, environmental compliance, and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. The Operator works closely with site personnel and customers to ensure efficient and professional service delivery.

Requirements

Driving & Transportation

  • Safely operate a vacuum truck in compliance with DOT and local traffic laws.
  • Perform pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspections; document findings.
  • Transport materials to disposal facilities or customer-designated sites.
  • Maintain accurate driver logs, manifests, and mileage/fuel reports.

Vacuum Truck Operations

  • Set up, operate, and monitor truck and vacuum equipment.
  • Load, transport, and offload wet or dry materials (hazardous and non-hazardous).
  • Connect and secure hoses, pumps, and related equipment.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues on-site.

Safety & Compliance

  • Comply with OSHA, EPA, DOT, and company safety standards.
  • Wear and maintain required PPE at all times.
  • Complete Job Hazard Assessments (JHAs) before tasks.
  • Report any incidents, spills, or near misses immediately.

Maintenance & Equipment Care

  • Perform routine maintenance checks (fluids, hoses, fittings, filters).
  • Clean and decontaminate truck/equipment as required.
  • Report mechanical issues for timely repair.

Documentation & Communication

  • Accurately complete manifests, load tickets, and timesheets.
  • Communicate with dispatch, supervisors, and site personnel.
  • Provide professional and courteous customer service.

Team & Site Support

  • Assist crews with job site setup, containment, and cleanup.
  • Participate in safety meetings and required training.
  • Support team members during large or complex projects.

Qualifications

  • Valid CDL Class A or B with air brake endorsement (hazmat endorsement preferred).
  • Clean driving record meeting company and DOT standards.
  • Minimum 1–2 years of CDL driving experience (vacuum truck experience preferred).
  • Knowledge of DOT regulations, hazardous waste handling, and environmental compliance.
  • Ability to pass background check, drug/alcohol screening, and fit-for-duty physical.

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong safety awareness and hazard recognition.
  • Mechanical aptitude with basic troubleshooting ability.
  • Effective communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to work independently and in team environments.
  • Attention to detail with strong recordkeeping skills.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver up to 50 lbs.
  • Work in outdoor environments with exposure to weather, noise, and odors.
  • Ability to climb, bend, kneel, and enter confined spaces (with training).
  • Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, or on-call as required.

Work Environment

  • Industrial, construction, municipal, and oil & gas job sites.
  • Exposure to hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
  • Fast-paced, safety-sensitive environment requiring PPE and adherence to procedures.

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