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Vactor information

See salary details

$14

$23

$32

How much do vactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 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 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 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, 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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,699 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Vactor Mfg. Inc 3rd shift Material Handler

Vactor Mfg. Inc 3rd shift Material Handler

Federal Signal

Streator, IL

$15.75 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Federal Signal rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 419 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Prepare and maintain inventory records.
  • Operate power lift and/or forklift, power saw, and other equipment including narrow aisle equipment and other material handling equipment.
  • Stock, pick, pack, and receive items into and out of stores inventory.
  • Maintain accuracy of computerized inventory records.
  • Some overtime may be required.
  • Maintain a safe, clean workplace.
  • Complete an Annual Hazardous Waste Management Training (C&P area only)
  • Duties include:
  • Knowing which materials are hazardous waste.
  • Add or remove hazardous waste into accumulation containers or tanks.
  • Transfer hazardous waste to or from accumulation points.
  • Respond to spills, fires or explosion of hazardous waste by Notification of Management ONLY.
  • Sign necessary hazardous waste manifests if authorized by management.
  • Inspect hazardous waste accumulation areas.
  • Operate and work at central accumulation points.
  • Conduct task involving occupational exposure to hazardous waste.
  • Proper labeling, storage and handling of hazardous waste.

 EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:

  • Basic math skills required.
  • Some clerical and computer skills, data entry, legible numbers, and writing skills required.
  • Ability to move up to 50 lbs. required.
  • Forklift certification or commitment to become certified is required.
  • Ability to cross train in all functional responsibilities of the shipping/receiving/stores operation.

EDUCATION REQUIRED:    High school grad or equivalent.

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:

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 valuable raw materials. Vactor is located in Streator, IL and is a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation.

Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) provides products and services to protect people and our planet. 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 Oak Brook, 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. 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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