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Vactor Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Vactor Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do vactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor operator in Houston, TX is $22.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $24.33 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Vactor Operator jobs in Houston, TX?

For Vactor Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vactor Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Vactor Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:

Vactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,506 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Jet Truck Vacuum Operator- Wet Utilities- Water, Sewer & Storm

PURIS Corporation, LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Jet Truck Vactor Operator 

About PURIS:

PURIS operates across North America as the largest independent trenchless rehabilitation provider with 900+ employees dedicated to building lasting infrastructure with smart, sustainable resource management.  The PURIS Family of Companies provide trenchless renewal solutions in the water, wastewater and stormwater markets.  Our environmentally friendly solutions work within the existing infrastructure to save time, minimize environmental impact and cause fewer community disruptions.   With an unrivaled toolbox of technologies, PURIS has the RIGHT solution for each project.  

Job Summary Description:

PURIS is seeking a dedicated, team-oriented, and safety-focused Jet Truck Vactor Operator to join our team. You will play a critical role in our industrial cleaning operations by safely and efficiently removing waste materials, liquids, and sludge from client sites. This role requires a strong commitment to safety regulations and a collaborative spirit to ensure successful project completion.

Essential Job Accountabilities:

  • Safely operate and maneuver a CDL Class A or B vacuum truck, adhering to company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Perform efficient removal of various waste materials, liquids, sludge, and debris from tanks, pits, vessels, and other industrial structures.
  • Utilize vacuum equipment, hoses, and attachments to effectively and safely complete cleaning tasks.
  • Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of vacuum trucks, ensuring they are in proper working condition and reporting any issues promptly.
  • Perform basic maintenance tasks such as checking fluid levels, inspecting hoses and fittings, and cleaning filters.
  • Communicate equipment repair or maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.
  • Ensure proper handling, transportation, and disposal of waste materials in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Adhere to waste management protocols, including identifying and segregating hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of waste removal activities, including manifests and disposal records.
  • Adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Participate in safety meetings and training sessions, actively promoting a culture of safety awareness and compliance among team members.
  • Identify potential hazards and report safety concerns to supervisors, suggesting improvements to enhance safety measures and practices.
  • Accurately record and maintain job-specific documentation, including work orders, inspection reports, and incident reports.
  • Collaborate with team members to provide detailed and accurate information for project reports, including completed tasks, challenges encountered, and recommendations for improvement.
  • Coordinate and communicate effectively with other team members, including supervisors and project managers, to ensure efficient workflow and successful project completion.
  • Support and assist colleagues with various tasks as needed, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Incumbent must possess and demonstrate proficiency in the above responsibilities. 
  • Must demonstrate good communications and interaction skills. 
  • Must be accurate, detailed, reliable and able to follow orders on projects & tasks with minimal supervision. 
  • Must have ability to be proactive and trouble shoot. 
  • Solid understanding and knowledge of standard field pipe rehabilitation installation procedures. 
  • Must be able to work in extreme work environments, conditions, and confined spaces. 
  • Position requires motivated individual willing to learn and move up. 
  • CDL preferred.

 Benefits:

  • Comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes medical/Rx, dental, vision, critical illness and accident insurance, and short-term disability.
  • Several 100% company-paid benefits including:
    • Life Insurance 
    • Long-term disability
    • Employee assistance program
  • Bonus program
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match
  • Generous PTO
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

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