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Vactor Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Vactor (Combo Cleaner Truck) Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Position Overview We are seeking a Vactor (Combo Cleaner Truck) Technician to join our team at the Houston, Texas branch. This field-based position plays a key role in supporting our pipeline ...

All JobsVactor Operator JobsVactor Operator Jobs in Texas

Vactor Operator information

See Texas salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do vactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor operator in Texas is $21.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Vactor Operators?

Vactor Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating specialized vacuum trucks, commonly known as Vactor trucks, to clean and maintain sewer lines, storm drains, and catch basins. Their primary duties include removing debris, blockages, and waste materials using high-pressure water and vacuum systems. Vactor Operators play a crucial role in ensuring proper sanitation, preventing flooding, and maintaining the efficient operation of municipal wastewater and drainage systems. They must follow safety protocols and often work in various weather conditions and confined spaces.

What is the difference between Vactor Operator vs Sewer Cleaner?

AspectVactor OperatorSewer Cleaner
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredDriver's license, CDL may be required
Work EnvironmentOperate Vactor trucks for sewer and stormwater systemsClean and maintain sewer lines, often using similar equipment
Industry UsageCommonly used in municipal and industrial settingsPrimarily in municipal sewer maintenance
Job FunctionsVacuum and hydro-jet sewer lines, storm drainsClean, inspect, and repair sewer lines

Both Vactor Operators and Sewer Cleaners work in sewer maintenance, often using similar equipment. Vactor Operators typically operate specialized vacuum trucks for a variety of stormwater and sewer tasks, while Sewer Cleaners focus more on cleaning and inspecting sewer lines. The roles overlap in skills and environment but differ slightly in scope and specific duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vactor Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vactor Operator, you need a solid understanding of sewer and storm drain systems, a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), and experience with heavy equipment operation. Familiarity with Vactor trucks, vacuum excavation tools, and safety protocols is essential, and some employers may require certifications such as OSHA or confined space entry. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team are key soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operations and effective maintenance of municipal infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by Vactor Operators on the job, and how can they be managed?

Vactor Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or hazardous environments, dealing with unpredictable weather, and handling heavy equipment safely. Managing these challenges involves adhering strictly to safety protocols, maintaining clear communication with team members, and regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment. Additionally, operators must be adaptable and proactive in troubleshooting unexpected issues, such as equipment blockages or difficult-to-access work sites. Employers typically provide training and personal protective equipment to help operators manage these challenges effectively.
What are popular job titles related to Vactor Operator jobs in Texas? For Vactor Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vactor Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Vactor Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Vactor Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Vactor Operator job openings:
Vactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,371 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Public Works Technician I - Vactor

Public Works Technician I - Vactor

City of Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

City Of Corpus Christi rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

397th of 703 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Overview
The Public Works Technician I-Vactor assists the Vactor truck operator in daily operation, setting up traffic control, cleaning of inlet debris removal, and all functions related to the inlet cleaning program. This position is essential due to the importance of keeping the city's drains open and flowing.
Responsibilities
  • Sets up traffic control devices at all stops along route following the traffic control standards as per the Texas MUTCD Work Zone Traffic Control Guide to ensure safety of the General Public and Crew
  • Helps driver with positioning of Vactor truck for optimal operation, assists operator while backing up
  • Assists operator in cleaning and flushing of inlets which includes removing debris using a shovel, weed eater and broom to remove debris from curb and gutter 5 ft in each direction
  • Cleans manholes and jet main lines to remove debris allowing system to function properly
  • Works in high traffic areas, confined spaces and/or elevated conditions ensuring all safety protocols are followed and wear proper PPE
  • Ensures all tools and equipment are ready for daily use, and all safety devices are in proper working order
  • Communicates when supply/material are low
  • Assists Vactor drivers to perform daily Pre/Post-trip inspections and perform Pre/Post-trip on all types of equipment and vehicles
  • Obeys all traffic laws while operating fleet vehicles and equipment from one location to another
  • Assists with weekly preventative maintenance of Vactor such as greasing, lubricating, cleaning inside of cab and washing Vactor
  • Responds to after-hours and weekend emergencies
  • Must work under emergency responses during and or after any city emergency event. example: Hurricanes, tropical storms, ice storms or any other city emergency
  • Communicates with internal and external customers and be professional under any conditions
  • Ensures proper communication with operator, foreman, work coordinator, Planner Scheduler

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work
  • Non-Exempt - Full-Time
  • All employees will work an On-Call Duty rotation schedule and must be available to work different rotation shifts under emergency response
  • Monday - Thursday, 6:30 am - 5:30 pm or Tuesday - Friday, 06:30am - 5:30pm; must be available to work additional hours as needed•
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays is a schedule requirement
  • In the event of an emergency, employees are required to work to provide for the safety and well-being of the public, including the delivery and restoration of vital services

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. This job description is subject to change as the needs and requirements of the job change.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • No prior experience required

Licenses and Certifications
Required
A valid driver's license is required; successful out-of-state candidates must be able to obtain a valid Texas driver's license within 90 days of hiring
Required after six (6) months of employment
  • Certification in Traffic Control & Flagging
  • Certification in Confined Space
  • Defensive Driving

Employment Testing
Employment is contingent on passing any post-offer pre-employment screening as listed below:
  • Criminal Background Check: Yes
  • Motor Vehicle Record Check: Yes
  • Drug Screening: Yes
  • Physical Exam: Yes

Basis of Rating
A recruitment consultant will evaluate all applications against the posted qualifications. The city may also conduct additional skill assessment tests, in addition to the panel interview
Supplemental Information
Any position that lists a minimum qualification for education level and/or license/certification will require the applicant to provide proof of documentation if selected for hire into the position with the City of Corpus Christi
The City of Corpus is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). If you require an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please request assistance from the Human Resources Department

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