ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Vactor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CatchAll Environmental

Vactor Operator

Tacoma, WA

$22.50 - $28.50/hr

Basic function of the Vactor Operator position is to drive the Vactor truck and to perform all duties associated with servicing a variety of stormwater structures. QUALIFICATIONS: * Class B or higher ...

Joseph J Magnolia

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Laurel, MD · On-site

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

The Large Vacuum Truck Driver (Vactor Truck Operator) will operate and maintain vacuum excavation equipment to support underground utility operations, including sewer, stormwater, and utility ...

NUG

Vactor (Combo Cleaner Truck) Operator

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Vactor (Combo Cleaner Truck) Technician We are seeking a Vactor (Combo Cleaner Truck) Technician to join our team at our Phoenix, Arizona branch. This field-based position plays a key role in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVactor Jobs

Vactor information

See salary details

$14

$23

$32

How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor in the United States is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vactor?

Vactors are specialized vehicles equipped with powerful vacuum and water jetting systems used primarily for cleaning and maintaining sewer lines, storm drains, and catch basins. Operators use them to remove debris, sludge, and blockages from underground infrastructure. Vactors play a crucial role in preventing flooding, maintaining public health, and ensuring the smooth operation of municipal wastewater and stormwater systems. They are commonly used by public works departments, environmental service companies, and construction crews.

What are some common challenges faced by vactor truck operators, and how can they be managed effectively on the job?

Vactor truck operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or hazardous environments, managing heavy equipment safely, and responding to emergency service calls in all weather conditions. Effective communication with team members, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and maintaining regular equipment checks are essential for managing these challenges. Many operators also participate in ongoing training to stay updated on industry best practices and safety standards, which helps ensure both personal safety and job efficiency.

What is the difference between Vactor vs Sewer Cleaner?

AspectVactorSewer Cleaner
CredentialsOperator license, CDL often requiredOperator license, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, outdoor, confined spacesIndustrial, outdoor, confined spaces
Industry UsageUsed for vacuum excavation, hydro excavationUsed for sewer line cleaning, clog removal
Common TasksVacuuming debris, hydro excavationRemoving blockages, cleaning sewer lines

Vactors and sewer cleaners share similar credentials and work environments, often overlapping in industrial and outdoor settings. However, Vactors are primarily used for vacuum and hydro excavation tasks, while sewer cleaners focus on clearing sewer lines. Both roles are essential in infrastructure maintenance, but their specific functions distinguish them within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vactor operator?

To excel as a Vactor Operator, you need a solid understanding of sewer and storm drain systems, a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and experience in equipment operation. Familiarity with Vactor trucks, vacuum excavation equipment, and safety protocols such as confined space entry certification is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that operators safely and efficiently maintain municipal infrastructure, prevent blockages, and respond effectively to emergencies.
More about Vactor jobs
What cities are hiring for Vactor jobs? Cities with the most Vactor job openings:
What states have the most Vactor jobs? States with the most job openings for Vactor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vactor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vactor jobs are:
Vactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,699 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Vactor Operator

CatchAll Environmental

Tacoma, WA

$22.50 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Catchall Environmental, an innovative and rapidly growing stormwater management company, is seeking a team-oriented candidate who is searching for a long-term career in the environmental services field.
What we do:
We service and maintain stormwater systems to ensure they meet environmental regulatory requirements and function effectively.
Why we do what we do:
When a stormwater system is not maintained, it exposes the owner to drainage failure and hefty fines for harming the environment.
Catchall Environmental provides an affordable, comprehensive stormwater maintenance program that puts compliance on autopilot and makes every property owner an environmental hero!
Catchall Environmental exists so that thousands of property owners will be empowered to improve the environment while avoiding costly regulatory fines. By providing a comprehensive stormwater management solution, property owners will no longer need to worry about regulatory liabilities or drainage problems.
Our ideal candidate:
Someone who cares about improving the environment and is committed to doing everything possible to help our clients (and themselves) be environmental heroes. A team-oriented individual who will support others around them to be as efficient and effective as possible. Someone interested in a long term and fulfilling career that provides the opportunity for advancement.
BASIC FUNCTION: 

Basic function of the Vactor Operator position is to drive the Vactor truck and to perform all duties associated with servicing a variety of stormwater structures.  

 QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Class B or higher CDL with tanker endorsement

  • Physically capable of lifting 50 lbs. or more. 

  • Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions

  • Willingness to work in confined spaces

  • Vactor experience not required but would be a plus

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: 

The Vactor Operator reports to the Service Manager.  
RESPONSIBILITIES: 

The following are the principal responsibilities of the Vactor Operator:  

  • Drive Vactor truck

  • Operating the front console of the truck to control boom, water, throttle, etc.

  • Servicing stormwater systems 

  • Identifying potential risks/hazards pertaining to personnel or equipment

  • Troubleshooting any issues that relate to Vactor Truck Operation

  
PRINCIPAL DUTIES: 

The following are principal duties of the Vactor Operator: 

  • Driving Vactor truck to and from projects

  • Remove sediment from stormwater structures

  • Utilization of stormwater inspection equipment to determine structure compliance

  • Attaching/removing vactor tubes to/from the boom of the truck

  • Lifting storm drain grates and putting them back in place

  • Utilizing water gun to loosen sediment 

  • Using spray paint to indicate completion of cleaning 

  • Using cones and caution tape to block off areas for vactor truck access

  • Guiding the vactor truck through tight, specific areas 

  • Using a variety of hand and power tools

  • All other duties as required

MEASURES OF PERFORMANCE: 

The following will be used to evaluate the performance of the Vactor Operator: 

  • Demonstrates a knowledge of the following skills/concepts: 

    • Demonstrate safe driving skills

    • An understanding of all PPE necessary to perform duties 

    • A knowledge of the controls/terms associated with Vactor Truck Operation

    • Can effectively assess if a stormwater structure needs service 

  • Use of ADS (How to prep, use/handle during operation w/ Fan and PD Trucks, and to properly stow back in shop)

  • Ability to identify a thoroughly serviced structure (after cleaning)

  • Understanding differences in PD and Fan Vactor Trucks and how to effectively service structures with each.

  • Understanding the procedures and outcomes of servicing… StormFilter Vault/CB’s, Detention Legs, Detention Vaults, Type-1/Type-2 CB’s, Oil Water Separators, etc.  

  • Develop a good understanding of how to accurately inspect a stormwater system

  • Demonstrate a clear understanding of safety measures while operating Vactor and while assisting with other service duties

  • Efficiently and effectively perform all principal job duties


We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.