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Vactor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Safeway Environmental

Diesel Mechanic - Semi Trucks

Novi, MI · On-site

$23.50 - $31/hr

Experienced Vactor mechanics will be compensated more based on experience. This position offers flexible full-time or part-time work with great pay and benefits. You will be responsible for ...

glwa

Field Services Technician

Detroit, MI

Utilize job related equipment (dump truck, backhoe, vactor, etc.) * Effectively query and generate work orders and maintain and update various databases and automated records * Identify problems and ...

glwa

Field Services Technician

Detroit, MI · On-site

Utilize job related equipment (dump truck, backhoe, vactor, etc.) * Effectively query and generate work orders and maintain and update various databases and automated records * Identify problems and ...

All JobsVactor JobsVactor Jobs in Michigan

Vactor information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$20

$28

How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor in Michigan is $20.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.21 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

Vactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor job openings in Michigan 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 $42,446 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Field Operations Supervisor - Vactor Services

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

FV Engineering
See more jobs at FV Engineeringexternal

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description
Apply today to join F&V Operations & Resource Management (FVOP) - our team is made up of fishers, hunters, military veterans, adventurers, gamers, singers, boaters, and all kinds of people that work hard and live to enjoy life. We work hard, play hard, and aren't afraid to get dirty in the process. If this sounds like you, keep reading.
F&V Operations and Resource Management (FVOP) is a highly successful, employee-owned and growth-oriented company that assists municipal clients providing water and wastewater treatment plant operation services. Working with the owner, we provide expert operation, maintenance, and asset management for public and private systems.
We are seeking a Field Operations Supervisor - Vactor Services, based out of our Grand Rapids office. This role combines hands-on field work with supervisory duties, including work scheduling and ensuring jobs are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will also support our team and embody our core principles: have fun, do what we say we're going to do, and understand and meet our customers' needs.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and manage daily/weekly schedules for vactor truck, sewer camera, and bypass pumping operations, including routine cleaning, emergency calls, and preventive maintenance
  • Operate and supervise vactor/combination sewer cleaning trucks to perform hydro-jetting, debris removal, and line cleaning
  • Operate and supervise sewer camera equipment to inspect lines
  • Supervise bypass pumping activities, including coordination and preventive maintenance
  • Maintain accurate records of work orders and service completion
  • Schedule and track routine vehicle/equipment maintenance, inspections, and compliance requirements
  • Communicate with clients and internal stakeholders regarding job status and scheduling
  • Perform safe and efficient water and wastewater treatment plant operations as needed

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED (or equivalent) required. Associate or bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL Class B (or A) strongly preferred or ability to obtain within 3 months of employment.
  • 3+ years of experience operating vactor/combination sewer trucks or similar heavy equipment.
  • 2+ years in a lead or supervisory role preferred.
  • Working knowledge of sewer/storm systems, hydro-excavation techniques, and confined space procedures
  • Strong safety mindset and willingness to complete required certifications (confined space, OSHA 10/30, etc.)
  • Willingness to work on-call/emergency shifts, nights, or weekends as needed

At FVOP, our goal is to recruit and retain great people and in turn provide great employee experience. We offer a collaborative team environment, competitive salaries and benefit program, performance bonus incentives, and support for training and career development.
Apply today for an opportunity to make a difference in the community you live and work in!

Apply