Hydro Excavator Operator

Job Overview

Responsible for operating a Hydro Excavator Truck and a variety of heavy and light equipment—including tandem axle trucks, backhoes, skid steers, dozers, scrapers, graders, pothole patchers, cement mixers, asphalt spreaders, dump trucks, sewer jet trucks, road tractors, track hoes, excavators, forklifts, and more—to remove dirt and silt with precision, assist in shortening repair times, and reduce large cleanup efforts on well‑maintained areas.

The role involves inspecting storm water lines, basins, and manholes via CCTV; locating and uncovering broken sewer and water lines; overseeing crew operations; performing basic maintenance on equipment; and assisting in training new employees as needed.

• Operate a Hydro Excavator Truck to remove dirt and silt with precision.
• Clean storm water lines, basins, and manholes as required.
• Operate flat‑bed dump trucks to transport materials or haul brush, debris, gravel, asphalt, etc.
• Perform basic maintenance on backhoes, dump trucks, and mowers—including washing, changing oil, greasing, sharpening blades, and replacing flat tires.
• Assist in training new employees and may serve as crew supervisor as needed.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Inspect storm‑water conditions via CCTV.
• Locate and uncover broken sewer and water lines; oversee crew operations and ensure equipment is properly serviced and maintained.
• Conduct potholing for new construction of water lines, sewer taps, cable lines, fire line connections, gas lines, and sewer lines.
• Construct taps and main extension tie‑ins for the water system; draw maps of valves and manholes to assure proper location.
• Subject to recall in case of an emergency.

• Ability to read and write.
• Preferred experience reading GPS coordinates.
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the minimum level of qualifications.

• Valid Class B or A Driver's License depending on assigned vehicle and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
• Due to the safety‑sensitive nature of this position, incumbents will be subject to random drug testing.

• Knowledge of the geography of the City/County, including major streets and landmarks.
• Knowledge of preventive maintenance procedures.
• Knowledge of traffic rules and regulations and safe operation of heavy equipment.
• Basic to intermediate knowledge and skill in operating various types of heavy equipment.
• Ability to take and follow directions from a supervisor.
• Ability to perform strenuous and routine work.
• Ability to lift objects of up to 50 pounds.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods in water and sewer line construction and maintenance, as well as the installation and repair of sewer and water taps, fire hydrants, and water meters.
• Knowledge of the operations and safety precautions necessary in the operation of the various types of machinery used in water and sewer line construction.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and site plans.
• Ability to understand and follow instructions both orally and in writing.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.

Eligible for a 5% certification incentive upon attainment of a Wastewater Collection Operator Certification or a Water Distribution Operator Certification. Maximum allowable certification incentive is 15%.