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Vactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JARBO

Jet-Vac Operator

Pittsburgh, PA

$28 - $35/hr

Preferred Qualifications - Sewer Vactor Operator * CIPP support experience: bypass pumping, pre-/post-CCTV prep, lateral reinstatement assist. * NASSCO PACP, MACP, or LACP certification. * OSHA 10 or ...

JARBO

Jet-Vac Operator

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Preferred Qualifications - Sewer Vactor Operator * CIPP support experience: bypass pumping, pre-/post-CCTV prep, lateral reinstatement assist. * NASSCO PACP, MACP, or LACP certification. * OSHA 10 or ...

JARBO

Jet-Vac Operator

Pittsburgh, PA

$28 - $35/hr

Preferred Qualifications - Sewer Vactor Operator * CIPP support experience: bypass pumping, pre-/post-CCTV prep, lateral reinstatement assist. * NASSCO PACP, MACP, or LACP certification. * OSHA 10 or ...

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How much do vactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor operator in the United States is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $25.48 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.
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Vactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,699 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Vactor Truck Operator (Automotive Equipment Operator 2)

Vactor Truck Operator (Automotive Equipment Operator 2)

Pinellas County Government

Clearwater, FL • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Pinellas County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 644 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Vactor Truck Operator (Automotive Equipment Operator 2)
Work Location: 22211 U.S. Highway North, Building 1, Clearwater, FL 33765
Schedule: Tuesday - Friday 7:00 a.m. -5:30 p.m.

We're looking for a skilled, safety-minded, and forward-thinking Vactor Truck Operator to join our team. If you're someone who takes pride in operating powerful equipment, enjoys working outdoors, and knows how to keep operations moving smoothly and efficiently, this might be the perfect fit.

What Would You Do?

  • Operate and drive high-capacity tanker trucks (5,000+ gallons) with confidence and precision.
  • Determine the most eAicient and eAective routing for daily operations.
  • Set up barricades, manage traAic flow, and serve as a flagger to maintain a safe work zone.
  • Jump in on general labor tasks when needed-because teamwork makes the whole crew stronger.
  • Assist with cleaning, inspecting, and maintaining stormwater and environmental systems using Vactor equipment.
  • Follow safety standards and operational procedures to protect people, equipment, and the work environment.
  • The work is heavy work which requires 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.
  • Communicate clearly with teammates, supervisors, and the public as needed.
  • Performs other related job duties as assigned.

What Do You Need?

Education/Experience:

  • 6 months experience in the operation of a Vactor; or

  • A Public Works Academy training certificate for equipment operators or

  • A Pinellas County employee equipment certification that includes experience or training on job related equipment(s); or

  • An equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.

Additional Requirements:

  • Possession and maintenance of a valid State of Florida Commercial Driver's License A upon hire with eligibility based upon evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) driving report. A Tanker (N) endorsement is required to operate tankers with a capacity exceeding 5,000 gallons..

  • Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Skill in the operation of heavy automotive and/or construction equipment (i.e. vactor truck to clean pipes and soft digs).
  • Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, adaptability, limitations and safety precautions related to automotive and/or construction equipment.(i.e vactor truck)
  • Ability to perform daily safety inspections of assigned equipment prior to and after use and performs routine service and maintenance.
  • Ability to complete accurate accident or other routine reports.
  • Ability to work under adverse weather conditions and possession of sufficient physical strength and agility to operate heavy equipment and perform manual labor.
  • Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, adaptabilities, limitations and safety precautions related to a broad range of automotive and construction equipment.

Our benefits rank among the top in the area!

  • Looking for a strong retirement? We have you covered as members of theFlorida 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.

Automotive Equipment Operator 2

Employment Type: Full time

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