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Vactor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Anne Arundel County, MD

Utilities Support Worker II

MD · On-site

$21.17 - $34.01/hr

The work is physical requiring the lifting of heavy pipes, operating heavy equipment, and working ... Operates, as instructed and trained, various types of mobile cleaning equipment (vactor truck, wash ...

All JobsVactor Operator JobsVactor Operator Jobs in Washington

Vactor Operator information

See Washington salary details

$16

$26

$37

How much do vactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor operator in Washington is $26.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $28.85 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 Washington? For Vactor Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vactor Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Vactor Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Vactor Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Vactor Operator job openings:
Vactor Operator jobs near you

Equipment Operator (Sewer Maintenance)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$59K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services (DES) is seeking an experienced Equipment Operator to perform highly skilled operation of specialized commercial motor vehicles and/or heavy construction equipment to support the construction and maintenance of the County's public infrastructure for the Sewer Construction section of the Water, Sewer, and Streets (WSS) Bureau.
Responsibilities
Specific duties include:
  • Operating specialized trucks such as Sewer Flusher and Sewer Vacuum (Vactor) trucks and associated equipment;
  • Performing routine and preventative maintenance on equipment and emergency maintenance such as sewer line flushing, manhole cleaning, grease removal, sewer grid maintenance and sewer back up issues;
  • Loading and operating various size trucks such as Medium and Tandem Dump Trucks;
  • Operating sewer line cameras and other equipment associated with Storm and Sanitary Sewer maintenance;
  • Performing emergency stand-by duty on a rotating schedule;
  • Participating in snow removal operations and inclement weather or related emergencies; and
  • Performing job-related duties as assigned by crew leader, master technician, or trades manager/leader.

Qualifications
Minimum requirements:
  • High school diploma, GED or equivalent;
  • Three (3) years of experience in public works, construction or another trade vocation that demonstrates the ability to perform semi-skilled to skilled manual maintenance and/or construction, including one year of experience operating heavy/specialized equipment such as dump trucks, sewer flusher and/or sewer vacuum (Vactor) trucks; plus
  • CDL with Tanker endorsement.

Substitution: Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year for year basis.
Desirable: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
  • At least two years of experience operating a flusher truck and/or similar equipment;
  • Performing preventative maintenance on equipment;
  • Using a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS); and/or
  • Field construction experience with reading/interpreting plans, cut sheets, etc.

Special Requirements:
  • Applicant must possess a Class B or A commercial driver's license (CDL) with Tanker endorsement and authorize Arlington County to obtain, or the applicant must provide a copy of their official state/district driving record.
  • Applicant must provide written consent for Arlington County to obtain from previous employer's information required by DOT agency regulations concerning drug and alcohol testing information.
  • Any offer of employment will be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record and passing a pre-employment drug screening as required by applicable standards.
  • Once hired, the employee will be subject to drug screening at such times during employment as required by federal, state, and local standards and regulations.
  • Applicant must possess or be able to obtain within one year of date of hire, a valid Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Basic Work Zone Certification.
  • Candidates invited for interview may be asked to participate in skills testing involving the operation of equipment.

Working Conditions for workers:
  • Performs activities outdoors.
  • Subject to hazards: Includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, exposure to high heat, exposure to chemicals, and/or biohazardous waste.
  • Subject to one more of the following conditions: Fumes, odors, dusts, mists, loud noises, gases or poor ventilation, oils, and other cutting fluids.
  • Spends long periods of time standing, crouching, stooping, bending, lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying.
  • Required to wear common protective gear or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, or hard hats.
  • Will be required to respond to after-hour calls and emergency situations and mandatory overtime may be required on short notice.

Physical Requirements:
Heavy Work: Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Additional Information
Work Hours: Core work hours are generally 6:30am - 3:00pm Monday through Friday. Employees must be available for call-back for emergency situations such as sewer-related emergencies and snow removal operations. Occasional overtime is required.
The official title of this position is Water/Sewer/Streets (WSS) Equipment Operator.
Arlington County offers a competitive salary and a great benefits package including a Defined Benefit (pension) plan. For more information on Arlington's family friendly benefits click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
Please complete each section of the application. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for the completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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