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Vactor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Magnolia Companies

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Laurel, MD · On-site

$31 - $41/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Joseph J Magnolia

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Laurel, MD · On-site

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Magnolia Plumbing

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Laurel, MD

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Anne Arundel County, MD

Utilities Support Worker II

MD · On-site

$21.70 - $35.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 Aug 15, 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 is a vactor operator?

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
Infographic showing various Vactor Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,156 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Magnolia Companies

Laurel, MD • On-site

$31 - $41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Join the Magnolia Plumbing, LLC Team!
For more than 75 years, Magnolia Plumbing, LLC has been a trusted provider of plumbing, HVAC, wastewater management, and underground utility services throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan area. As we continue to grow, we are looking for experienced professionals to join our Underground Utilities Division.
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 construction projects. This role is responsible for safely operating large vacuum trucks, performing excavation support, and assisting field crews with daily operations.
Requirements
Responsibilities:
  • Properly, safely, and effectively operate various types and sizes of vactor trucks.
  • Support the installation and maintenance of underground water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage distribution systems.
  • Perform cleaning of underground storm structures, pipelines, and hydro-excavation scopes of work.
  • Follow all Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and applicable jurisdictional or disposal facility requirements.
  • Take verbal instructions from site foremen and crew leaders to complete assigned tasks efficiently and safely.
  • Work collaboratively with crew members and maintain effective communication on job sites.
  • Inspect equipment and maintain operational safety standards at all times.
  • Work safely in underground structures and confined work areas when required.
  • Maintain clean and organized equipment and job sites.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements:
  • Required: Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Tanker Endorsement.
  • Preferred: Class "A" CDL with Tanker Endorsement.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience operating a vacuum truck, Vactor truck, or similar heavy equipment
  • Valid DOT Medical Card required.
  • Ability to operate both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
  • Ability to pass the Montgomery County School background check.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and climate conditions.
  • Ability to drive, lift, and operate heavy tools and equipment safely.
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Reliable transportation to report to assigned work locations.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule as project demands require.
  • Strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment to safety and teamwork.
Benefits & Culture:
  • Steady, year-round work throughout the DC Metropolitan area.
  • Competitive pay with opportunities for advancement.
  • Medical benefits starting the first of the month, plus company-paid life insurance and long-term disability.
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • Company contributions to 401(k).
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Company-paid Basic Life Insurance Policy.
  • Paid Time Off.
  • 7 Paid Holidays.
  • Opportunity for continued training and career advancement.

As part of our standard hiring process, this role requires completion of a background check and drug screening following an offer of employment.
Salary Description
$31-41 hourly

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