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Vacuum Excavator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Haven Services, LLC

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our ... Safe use of vacuum hoses and tubing under vacuum Employees must be able to pass pre-employment ...

Haven Services, LLC

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our ... Safe use of vacuum hoses and tubing under vacuum Employees must be able to pass pre-employment ...

The Waterworks

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our ... Safe use of vacuum hoses and tubing under vacuum Employees must be able to pass pre-employment ...

The Waterworks

Excavation Operator

Grove City, OH · On-site

The Haven Services is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Excavator Operator to join our ... Safe use of vacuum hoses and tubing under vacuum Employees must be able to pass pre-employment ...

C.A. Murren and Sons

Vacuum Truck Operator

Aiken, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Vacuum Truck Operator - Aiken, SC Are you a hands-on operator who takes pride in maintaining ... Operate and maintain high-pressure vacuum and hydro-excavation trucks to support underground ...

C.A. Murren and Sons

Vacuum Truck Operator

Aiken, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Vacuum Truck Operator - Aiken, SC Are you a hands-on operator who takes pride in maintaining ... Operate and maintain high-pressure vacuum and hydro-excavation trucks to support underground ...

Windwave Communications

Vac Truck Operator

Stanfield, OR · On-site

$21 - $26.75/hr

This position operates hydro-vac and vacuum excavation equipment for daylighting, potholing ... We're looking for a skilled operator who understands underground utilities, takes care of their ...

Essel

Hydro Vac Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

Operate hydro vacuum excavation equipment to safely expose underground utilities and perform ... Prior experience operating hydro vac or similar heavy vacuum excavation equipment preferred.

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Vacuum Excavator Operator information

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How much do vacuum excavator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for vacuum excavator operator in the United States is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a vacuum excavator operator do?

A Vacuum Excavator Operator is responsible for safely operating specialized equipment that uses high-powered suction to remove earth, debris, or other materials from job sites. This role is commonly used in construction, utility, and municipal projects where traditional digging methods may risk damaging underground utilities or infrastructure. Operators must adhere to safety protocols, maintain their equipment, and ensure efficient and precise excavation. The job often requires attention to detail, physical stamina, and adherence to environmental and safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vacuum excavator operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vacuum Excavator Operator, you need a solid understanding of excavation practices, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with vacuum excavation equipment, utility locating devices, and safety certifications like OSHA 10 or confined space entry are often required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork skills help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These abilities ensure the safe handling of underground utilities, prevent costly damages, and support smooth project execution.

What are some common challenges a vacuum excavator operator faces in the field, and how can they be managed?

Vacuum Excavator Operators often work in varying weather conditions and encounter unexpected underground utilities or obstructions, which can present safety and operational challenges. Effective communication with site supervisors and utility locators, as well as strict adherence to safety protocols, are essential for managing these risks. Additionally, operators must be vigilant in maintaining equipment and staying up-to-date with training on new technologies and regulations. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps ensure both personal safety and project success.

What is the difference between Vacuum Excavator Operator vs Hydro Excavation Technician?

AspectVacuum Excavator OperatorHydro Excavation Technician
CredentialsOperator license, safety certificationsOperator license, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, utility projectsConstruction sites, utility projects
Job FocusOperating vacuum excavation equipmentOperating hydro excavation equipment, site prep

Both roles involve operating excavation equipment in similar environments and require safety certifications. The main difference is that Vacuum Excavator Operators focus on vacuum-based excavation, while Hydro Excavation Technicians specialize in hydro (water-based) excavation techniques. Both are essential in utility and construction projects, often overlapping in duties but distinguished by their specific equipment and methods.

What states have the most Vacuum Excavator Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Vacuum Excavator Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Vacuum Excavator Operator jobs?

For Vacuum Excavator Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Vacuum Excavator Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,408 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Utilities Excavator Operator

Louisville, KY

Fulton Technologies
See more jobs at Fulton Technologiesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The Utilities Excavator Operator is a key role within our construction and maintenance team, responsible for operating a variety of specialized equipment with the primary focus on excavators. This position plays a critical role in installing, maintaining, and repairing utility infrastructure for broadband services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Operation of Equipment: Safely and efficiently operate a wide range of heavy and intermediate construction equipment, including but not limited to excavators, backhoes, end loaders, skid steers, trenchers, tapping machines, boring machines, horizontal directional drills, and vacuum trucks.

Utility Work: Engage in various forms of utility work including maintaining, repairing, and constructing underground and above-ground facilities for broadband utilities.

Right-of-Way MOT (Maintenance of Traffic): Perform all necessary right-of-way maintenance including flagging, temporary barricades, and re-routing of traffic as necessary to ensure safe working conditions and minimum disruption to the public.

Restoration Work: Conduct all types of restoration activities such as asphalt and concrete repair, landscape restoration, and general site cleanup to ensure the work area is returned to its original condition.

Quality Assurance: Perform duties according to industry standards and company policies to ensure the work is completed to a high-quality standard. Verify measurements, alignments, and depths of excavations and structures to ensure compliance with project specifications.

Communication: Coordinate with field supervisors, project managers, and other team members to report progress and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the course of the work.

Safety Compliance: Adhere to all occupational health and safety guidelines, including wearing all required personal protective equipment. Ensure that equipment is in proper working condition before each use.

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