ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Vactor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Owen Companies

Field Service Technician

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Henke, Wausau-Everest, and Swenson snow equipment; as well as Vactor, TRUVAC, and Elgin environmental infrastructure equipment. This role combines strong mechanical and technical expertise with ...

All JobsVactor JobsVactor Jobs in California

Vactor information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$32

How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor in California is $23.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vactor?

Vactors are specialized vehicles equipped with powerful vacuum and water jetting systems used primarily for cleaning and maintaining sewer lines, storm drains, and catch basins. Operators use them to remove debris, sludge, and blockages from underground infrastructure. Vactors play a crucial role in preventing flooding, maintaining public health, and ensuring the smooth operation of municipal wastewater and stormwater systems. They are commonly used by public works departments, environmental service companies, and construction crews.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vactor operator?

To excel as a Vactor Operator, you need a solid understanding of sewer and storm drain systems, a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and experience in equipment operation. Familiarity with Vactor trucks, vacuum excavation equipment, and safety protocols such as confined space entry certification is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure that operators safely and efficiently maintain municipal infrastructure, prevent blockages, and respond effectively to emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by vactor truck operators, and how can they be managed effectively on the job?

Vactor truck operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or hazardous environments, managing heavy equipment safely, and responding to emergency service calls in all weather conditions. Effective communication with team members, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and maintaining regular equipment checks are essential for managing these challenges. Many operators also participate in ongoing training to stay updated on industry best practices and safety standards, which helps ensure both personal safety and job efficiency.

What is the difference between Vactor vs Sewer Cleaner?

AspectVactorSewer Cleaner
CredentialsOperator license, CDL often requiredOperator license, CDL often required
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, outdoor, confined spacesIndustrial, outdoor, confined spaces
Industry UsageUsed for vacuum excavation, hydro excavationUsed for sewer line cleaning, clog removal
Common TasksVacuuming debris, hydro excavationRemoving blockages, cleaning sewer lines

Vactors and sewer cleaners share similar credentials and work environments, often overlapping in industrial and outdoor settings. However, Vactors are primarily used for vacuum and hydro excavation tasks, while sewer cleaners focus on clearing sewer lines. Both roles are essential in infrastructure maintenance, but their specific functions distinguish them within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Vactor jobs in California?

For Vactor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vactor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Vactor jobs in California are:

Vactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,061 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Crew Leader (Stormwater Construction)

Apex Companies - CSW

Livermore, CA

$23/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Position: Stormwater Crew Leader (Driver/Helper)
Location: Livermore, CA
Compensation: Full-Time $23.00 per hour; Open to negotiation based on experience
S.W.I.M.S. (Storm Water Inspection & Maintenance Services, Inc.) is looking for dependable individuals who want to come join our great team. We care about our employees and strive to provide the kind of workplace environment other people envy. We offer good pay, a great benefits package and have opportunities to grow and move up as SWIMS continues to grow.
You can learn more about joining our team at www.SWIMSclean.com

Your Responsibilities as a Crew Leader:

The work you perform each day ensures that the storm water that returns to the ocean is clean. You will be working at various locations throughout SoCal cleaning a variety of different storm drain devices.

  • Perform routine services on storm drains, vaults, bioswales, etc.
  • Install new filters, StormTek devices, cartridge exchanges, etc.
  • Perform vehicle/equipment safety checks & turn in checklist.
  • Ability to use various tools, generator, pumps, hooks, hand tools, etc.
  • Ability to use vactor, suction hose, pressure washer.
  • Read all work orders and paperwork before leaving yard.
  • Load truck with all necessary materials and equipment.
  • Drive truck and trailer to various sites.
  • Ensure all crew members are wearing proper PPE.
  • Set up traffic control and all necessary safety equipment as needed.
  • Complete measurement forms for new and replacement grates and filters.
  • Ensure crew takes lunch and breaks required.
  • Ability to use company phone and generate digital reports through company app.
  • Dump and clean vactor daily.
  • Clean inside cab and bed of truck daily, wash truck every Friday.
  • Return all unused material to proper location.
  • Return all equipment to proper location.
  • Perform end off day safety checks around truck and trailer, fill out checklist.
  • Turn in all paperwork and fill out driver's log.
  • Attend weekly safety meetings, quarterly training, and annual safety training.
  • Assist in training of new employees in all aspects of job duties.
  • Maintain clean driving record.
  • Maintain good communication with office and PMs.
  • Assist in site take offs as needed.

Why you'll love working for us:

  • Cross-training and the ability to work on a variety of projects.
  • Performance-based bonuses or other incentives.
  • Working with the best and brightest in the industry.
  • 2,000+ employee national firm with 70+ locations across the US.

What we are looking for:

  • 2-4+ years of outdoor construction or landscaping experience.
  • Ability to operate construction equipment.
  • Due to DOT interstate transportation requirements, employees must meet the minimum requirement of 21 years of age.
  • Valid driver's license, safe driving record, and a reliable method of transportation required.
  • Candidates must pass a pre-employment background check, motor vehicle record check, and drug screening. 
  • Ability to perform various physical tasks (i.e., bending, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, etc.) and work in a variety of weather conditions. 

Interested in joining the stormwater team? Visit our website (apexcos.com/careers/) to apply today!
Job ID: 12035

Apply