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Vactor Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Joseph J Magnolia

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Laurel, MD · On-site

$1.3K - $1.7K/wk

The Large Vacuum Truck Driver (Vactor Truck Operator) will operate and maintain vacuum excavation equipment to support underground utility operations, including sewer, stormwater, and utility ...

Anne Arundel County

Utilities Crew Leader I

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$49K - $80K/yr

... vactor trucks, combination high pressure pipe cleaning trucks, rodder trucks). Operates specialized technical equipment involved in the cleaning of sewer pumping station wet wells, televising ...

Anne Arundel County, MD

Utilities Crew Leader I

MD · On-site

$49K - $80K/yr

... vactor trucks, combination high pressure pipe cleaning trucks, rodder trucks). Operates specialized technical equipment involved in the cleaning of sewer pumping station wet wells, televising ...

Anne Arundel County, MD

Utilities Support Worker II

MD · On-site

$21.70 - $35.20/hr

Operates, as instructed and trained, various types of mobile cleaning equipment (vactor truck, wash truck, rodder truck) to clean the wastewater collection infrastructure (main sewer lines and wet ...

All JobsVactor JobsVactor Jobs in Washington

Vactor information

See Washington salary details

$16

$26

$37

How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor in Washington is $26.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $28.85 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Vactor jobs in Washington? For Vactor jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vactor jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Vactor jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Vactor jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Vactor job openings:
Vactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,156 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Vactor Truck Driver / Operator

Magnolia Companies

Laurel, MD • On-site

$31 - $41/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Join the Magnolia Plumbing, LLC Team!
For more than 75 years, Magnolia Plumbing, LLC has been a trusted provider of plumbing, HVAC, wastewater management, and underground utility services throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan area. As we continue to grow, we are looking for experienced professionals to join our Underground Utilities Division.
The Large Vacuum Truck Driver (Vactor Truck Operator) will operate and maintain vacuum excavation equipment to support underground utility operations, including sewer, stormwater, and utility construction projects. This role is responsible for safely operating large vacuum trucks, performing excavation support, and assisting field crews with daily operations.
Requirements
Responsibilities:
  • Properly, safely, and effectively operate various types and sizes of vactor trucks.
  • Support the installation and maintenance of underground water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage distribution systems.
  • Perform cleaning of underground storm structures, pipelines, and hydro-excavation scopes of work.
  • Follow all Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and applicable jurisdictional or disposal facility requirements.
  • Take verbal instructions from site foremen and crew leaders to complete assigned tasks efficiently and safely.
  • Work collaboratively with crew members and maintain effective communication on job sites.
  • Inspect equipment and maintain operational safety standards at all times.
  • Work safely in underground structures and confined work areas when required.
  • Maintain clean and organized equipment and job sites.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements:
  • Required: Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with Tanker Endorsement.
  • Preferred: Class "A" CDL with Tanker Endorsement.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience operating a vacuum truck, Vactor truck, or similar heavy equipment
  • Valid DOT Medical Card required.
  • Ability to operate both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
  • Ability to pass the Montgomery County School background check.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and climate conditions.
  • Ability to drive, lift, and operate heavy tools and equipment safely.
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Reliable transportation to report to assigned work locations.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule as project demands require.
  • Strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment to safety and teamwork.
Benefits & Culture:
  • Steady, year-round work throughout the DC Metropolitan area.
  • Competitive pay with opportunities for advancement.
  • Medical benefits starting the first of the month, plus company-paid life insurance and long-term disability.
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • Company contributions to 401(k).
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
  • Company-paid Basic Life Insurance Policy.
  • Paid Time Off.
  • 7 Paid Holidays.
  • Opportunity for continued training and career advancement.

As part of our standard hiring process, this role requires completion of a background check and drug screening following an offer of employment.
Salary Description
$31-41 hourly

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