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Vactor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Of Charleston

Jet Vactor Operator

Charleston, SC · On-site

$28.51 - $30.31/hr

Drives and operates a Jet Vactor truck in a safe and effective manner to clean pipes and drains throughout the city. * Adjusts truck settings and watches monitoring system for proper water flow and ...

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How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for vactor 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vactor Operator, and why are they important?

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 are Vactors?

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 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.

More about Vactor jobs
What cities are hiring for Vactor jobs? Cities with the most Vactor job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Vactor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vactor jobs are:
Vactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vactor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,699 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Jet Truck Vactor Operator

PURIS Corporation, LLC

Detroit, MI • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Jet Truck Vactor Operator

$25-30/hr. + Bonus Structure & Full Benefits Package

About PURIS:

PURIS operates across North America as the largest independent trenchless rehabilitation provider with 900+ employees dedicated to building lasting infrastructure with smart, sustainable resource management. The PURIS Family of Companies provide trenchless renewal solutions in the water, wastewater and stormwater markets. Our environmentally friendly solutions work within the existing infrastructure to save time, minimize environmental impact and cause fewer community disruptions. With an unrivaled toolbox of technologies, PURIS has the RIGHT solution for each project.

Job Summary Description:

PURIS is seeking a dedicated, team-oriented, and safety-focused Jet Truck Vactor Operator to join our team. You will play a critical role in our industrial cleaning operations by safely and efficiently removing waste materials, liquids, and sludge from client sites. This role requires a strong commitment to safety regulations and a collaborative spirit to ensure successful project completion.

Essential Job Accountabilities:

  • Safely operate and maneuver a CDL Class A or B vacuum truck, adhering to company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Perform efficient removal of various waste materials, liquids, sludge, and debris from tanks, pits, vessels, and other industrial structures.
  • Utilize vacuum equipment, hoses, and attachments to effectively and safely complete cleaning tasks.
  • Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of vacuum trucks, ensuring they are in proper working condition and reporting any issues promptly.
  • Perform basic maintenance tasks such as checking fluid levels, inspecting hoses and fittings, and cleaning filters.
  • Communicate equipment repair or maintenance needs to the appropriate personnel.
  • Ensure proper handling, transportation, and disposal of waste materials in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
  • Adhere to waste management protocols, including identifying and segregating hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of waste removal activities, including manifests and disposal records.
  • Adhere to all safety procedures and guidelines, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following lockout/tagout procedures.
  • Participate in safety meetings and training sessions, actively promoting a culture of safety awareness and compliance among team members.
  • Identify potential hazards and report safety concerns to supervisors, suggesting improvements to enhance safety measures and practices.
  • Accurately record and maintain job-specific documentation, including work orders, inspection reports, and incident reports.
  • Collaborate with team members to provide detailed and accurate information for project reports, including completed tasks, challenges encountered, and recommendations for improvement.
  • Coordinate and communicate effectively with other team members, including supervisors and project managers, to ensure efficient workflow and successful project completion.
  • Support and assist colleagues with various tasks as needed, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Incumbent must possess and demonstrate proficiency in the above responsibilities.
  • Must demonstrate good communications and interaction skills.
  • Must be accurate, detailed, reliable and able to follow orders on projects & tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Must have ability to be proactive and trouble shoot.
  • Solid understanding and knowledge of standard field pipe rehabilitation installation procedures.
  • Must be able to work in extreme work environments, conditions, and confined spaces.
  • Position requires motivated individual willing to learn and move up.
  • CDL preferred.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes medical/Rx, dental, vision, critical illness and accident insurance, and short-term disability.
  • Several 100% company-paid benefits including:
    • Life Insurance
    • Long-term disability
    • Employee assistance program
  • Bonus program
  • 401(k) savings plan with company match
  • Generous PTO
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.