Vactor Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Location: 22211 US Highway 19 N., Clearwater, FL 33765

Schedule: Monday - Thursday; 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Join Pinellas County Public Works as a Stormwater Vactor Crew Leader, where you'll lead a skilled field crew operating Vactor vacuum trucks to maintain and repair the County's stormwater infrastructure. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines crew supervision, Vactor operations, and stormwater system maintenance work in the field.

• Experience leading or supervising field crews.
• Knowledge of stormwater systems and water flow principles.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve drainage and maintenance issues.
• Experience operating Vactor trucks and other heavy construction equipment.
• Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

This position works outdoors in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. Crew Chiefs are expected to exercise a high degree of independence while adapting to changing priorities, weather conditions, and operational needs.

What Would You Do?

• Primarily operate a Vactor truck in support of stormwater maintenance operations and, as needed, operate other heavy equipment including Gradalls, hydraulic excavators, track hoes, tanker trucks, backhoes, and specialized attachments.
• Coordinate daily work involving stormwater pipes, drainage structures, canals, ditches, conveyance systems, and related infrastructure.
• Assign personnel, equipment, and resources to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to established standards.
• Investigate drainage concerns and identify effective maintenance and repair solutions.
• Monitor job progress, provide technical guidance, and assist employees in resolving complex field issues.
• Arrange for crew coverage, including vacation and sick leave relief, to maintain operational continuity.
• Coordinate the use of specialized equipment and resources to support maintenance and construction projects.
• Train employees on proper work methods, safety procedures, equipment operation, and the safe use of tools, materials, and supplies.
• Maintain accurate records of work activities, equipment usage, and project progress.
• Communicate work assignments, directives, and operational updates with staff, the public, contractors, and other departments.
• Promote a safe, productive, and professional work environment.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

What Do You Need to Have?

Experience: Public Works (maintenance, construction or repair work experience specializing in Right-of-Way Drainage or Stormwater facility maintenance), utilities, general construction, maintenance, construction or repair work that includes lead worker, supervision or supervisory training.

• Three (3) years of experience as described above, OR;
• Associate's or higher-level degree at least one (1) year of experience as described above, OR;
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.

Additional Requirements:

• Possession and maintenance of a valid Florida Commercial Driver's License Class "B" license at time of hire.
• Attain and maintain a Florida Department of Transportation Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) Intermediate Level Certificate.
• Complete Illicit Discharge, Spill Prevention, and Response Training; ICS 100, 200 & 700 Training; Erosion & Sediment Control.
• Complete OSHA 30-hour Construction Industry training.
• Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations, including evacuation shelter assignments.

Highly Desirable

• Leadership & Supervision
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to provide managerial and technical guidance to staff.
• Ability to oversee projects, coordinate work activities, and prepare routine reports.
• Licenses & Certifications
• Current Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class A with required endorsements.
• Construction & Equipment Experience
• Experience reviewing construction plans and specifications.
• Experience operating a Vactor, Gradall and/or long-arm excavator.
• Stormwater Knowledge
• Strong knowledge of stormwater drainage principles, methods, materials, equipment, and maintenance practices.
• Knowledge of modern stormwater permitting techniques, procedures, regulations, and best practices.
• Communication Skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to provide clear direction to staff and interact professionally with the public and partner organizations.
• Technology & Software
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Skilled in the use of asset and data management systems such as Cityworks, ESRI GIS, OPUS/Oracle, and other mapping or infrastructure management software.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Knowledge of methods, operating rules, and uses of public works equipment related to stormwater operations.
• Knowledge of service scheduling, time management, material and manpower requirements to complete a variety of maintenance type work projects.
• Knowledge of basic safety and health policies and procedures.
• Skill usages with small office equipment, computers, and highly technical computer applications.
• Skill in the operation of large complex construction equipment.
• Ability to supervise on a project basis and prepare routine reports.
• Ability to accurately evaluate the work, abilities, and attitudes of subordinates and possession of sufficient physical strength and agility to operate large construction equipment and perform manual labor outdoors under adverse weather conditions.

Our Benefits Rank Among The Top In The Area!

• Our benefits rank among the top in the area! Check it out!
• Looking for a strong retirement? We have you covered as members of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) with investment and pension options.
• We have deferred compensation programs and wellness centers to name a few perks. Check out these and more!

Want to Learn More?

Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands, Working Conditions, and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities at the below link.

Crew Chief 2