Hydrovac Operator

Hire Virtue; Hickory (NC); On-site; USD 34,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Job summary

Hire Virtue is seeking a Hydrovac Operator to operate an on-board hydro-vacuum system and perform non-destructive excavation around sensitive utilities. The role includes leading crew members, documenting activities, and traveling to projects as needed.

Required are a CDL‑A or CDL‑B with Tanker endorsement, OSHA 10, and a valid DOT Medical Card, with a high school diploma or equivalent and willingness to travel. Benefits start day one, with weekly pay and ongoing safety emphasis.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• CDL‑A or CDL‑B with Tanker endorsement and no restrictions required.
• OSHA 10 safety certification required (employer-provided training may follow hire).
• DOT Medical Card required.
• Must be at least 21 years old.

Responsibilities

• Operate an on-board hydro-vacuum excavation system.
• Perform non-destructive excavation around underground utilities, piping, and cables.
• Lead crew members, ensure safety and schedule adherence.
• Troubleshoot and perform minor equipment repairs.
• Willingness to travel for out-of-town and out-of-state projects.
• Complete documentation clearly and legibly.

Skills

Safety focus

Team leadership

Effective communication

Heavy equipment operation

Hydrovac/Vacuum experience

Travel readiness

Flexible hours

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

CDL A or B with Tanker endorsement

OSHA 10 certification

DOT Medical Card

Age 21+

Tools

Manual transmission operation

Job description

Must have CDL Class A or B with No Restrictions; Tanker Endorsement & must be able to travel to projects occasionally (per diem and lodging provided).

This role involves operating an on-board hydro-vacuum excavation system. More than 80% of work time is spent outside the vehicle performing non-destructive excavation around sensitive underground utilities, piping, and cables. Additional responsibilities include equipment mobilization, tank entry and cleaning, vacuum operations, routine truck maintenance, and participation in safety activities. The position requires periodic heavy lifting and occasional work at heights.

Compensation
Starting at $25.00 per hour and up, depending on experience, with opportunities for career advancement. Weekly pay $$, and benefits start on "DAY ONE"

Essential Functions

• Accurately complete all required federal, state, customer, and company documentation clearly and legibly.
• Communicate effectively with on-site customer representatives to determine the safest and least intrusive equipment parking locations.
• Lead and direct crew members to complete tasks safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
• Troubleshoot and perform minor equipment repairs as needed.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety at all times.
• Willingness to travel, including out-of-town and out-of-state assignments.
• Ability to lift, push, and pull 60+ pounds and operate heavy equipment.
• Ability to work flexible hours as required by project needs.
• Comfortable using digital field tools and applications.

Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must hold a CDL-A or CDL-B with Tanker endorsement and no restrictions.
• OSHA 10 safety certification required (if not already certified, employer-provided online completion may be required shortly after hire).
• Valid DOT Medical Card.

Experience & Skills

• Previous experience in hydrovac operations, vacuum truck work, underground utilities, or related field strongly preferred.
• Availability to respond to emergency call-outs when required.
• Strong understanding of emergency procedures and safe work practices.
• Experience operating manual transmission (13–18 speed) vehicles.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform well under pressure and in demanding or changing environments.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person