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Vactor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Vactor Manufacturing

Sales/CRM Business Analyst

Elgin, IL · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Vactor Mfg. Inc. is a leading manufacturer of municipal combination catch basin/sewer cleaning vacuum trucks and industrial vacuum loaders that clean up industrial waste or recover and recycle ...

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Vactor information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor in Illinois is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $24.71 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 Illinois?

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

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Vactor jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Vactor job openings:

Vactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,191 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer - Vactor Manufacturing

Vactor Manufacturing

Streator, IL

$70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Vactor Manufacturing rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Determine necessary equipment and process design to manufacture products in an economical manner while maintaining fit, form, function and quality standards.
  • Provide proper documentation, training and communication of product/process related information to supervisors and shop personnel.
  • Work with Design Engineering to make improvements in the design of the products to reduce cost, improve quality and manufacturability.
  • Lead process improvement projects.
  • Investigate and make recommendations on the procurement of equipment to improve the manufacturing process.
  • Process Engineering Change Notices in a timely manner and communicate those changes to the appropriate shop personnel.
  • Process Engineering Change Requests in a timely manner and investigate what is being asked to be changed to make sure it is best for the company.
  • Improve safety in manufacturing by analyzing current and proposed manufacturing processes.

 

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

  • 1 – 3 years experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with AutoCAD is a plus.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles a plus.
  • Good interpersonal skills and good written and oral communication skills.
  • Good computer skills, with knowledge of word processing and spreadsheets.

 

EDUCATION REQUIRED:   Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Industrial Engineering Technology or related field is required.

Salary Range - $70-85k

Benefits of Employment:

Benefits of Employment: In addition to excellent career growth opportunities, Federal Signal Corporation offers a wide array of benefits including: annual bonus potential, insurance (life, medical, dental, vision), paid holidays, paid vacation, 401(k) with matching contributions and tuition reimbursement. We provide our employees with a smoke-free, drug-free workplace.

About us:

Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) builds and delivers equipment of unmatched quality that moves material, cleans infrastructure, and protects the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer and manufacturer of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial and commercial customers. Headquartered in Downers Grove, IL, with manufacturing facilities worldwide, the Company operates two groups: Environmental Solutions and Safety and Security Systems. For more information on Federal Signal, visit: www.federalsignal.com.  Vactor Mfg. is a leading manufacturer of municipal combination catch basin/sewer cleaning vacuum trucks and industrial vacuum loaders that clean up industrial waste or recover and recycle valuable raw materials. Vactor is located in Streator, IL and is a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation.

The Company is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category, characteristic, or trait under applicable law. If you require reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources at hr@federalsignal.com. All other applications must be submitted online. 

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