Job Description: Vac Truck Operator

Position Title: Vac Truck Operator
Location: Baltimore, MD
Department: Field Operations / Environmental Services
Reports to: Crew Lead / Field Supervisor

Summary / Purpose

The Vac Truck Operator is responsible for operating vacuum / suction trucks (hydro-vac, combination sewer, or vacuum trucks) to remove, transport, and dispose of liquids, sludge, debris, or waste material from sewers, drains, catch basins, tanks, underground utilities, and other sites. The role requires strict adherence to safety, environmental, and regulatory standards, as well as coordination with field crews and project management.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate vacuum trucks, suction systems, pumps, hoses, and associated equipment to remove liquids/sludge/debris from manholes, catch basins, storm drains, vaults, and pipelines.

• Perform pre-trip and post-trip vehicle inspections; check fluid levels, hoses, filters, pumps, safety systems, and document any defects.

• Maintain equipment (cleaning, minor repairs, lubrication, hose replacement, filter changes) and report major maintenance needs.

• Assist field crew with site setup and teardown: connecting hoses, positioning rig, providing water supply or vacuum lines, staging equipment.

• Transport waste or captured materials to designated disposal or treatment facilities, ensuring proper manifesting and documentation.

• Operate safely in traffic zones or worksites, following OSHA, DOT, state, and local regulations; coordinate with traffic control or other contractors if required.

• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, safety programs, and company policies concerning spill control, hazardous waste handling, and waste disposal.

• Maintain logs, reports, manifests, daily logs, equipment usage records, and incident reports.

• Communicate with crew leads, site supervisors, and clients regarding progress, equipment status, or unexpected issues.

• Respond to emergency calls or unplanned service needs (e.g., flooded vaults, storm events), as required.

• May train or mentor junior operators or act as a backup technician as needed.

Qualifications / Skills

• Valid CDL (Commercial Driver’s License), typically Class B or higher (depending on truck), possibly with tanker endorsement.

• Previous experience operating vacuum trucks, hydrovac, combination sewer cleaners, or other industrial trucks preferred.

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting.

• Strong understanding of safety practices, confined space awareness (if working in manholes), and environmental regulations.

• Ability to work outdoors in variable weather, lift heavy hoses, climb, and perform physically demanding tasks.

• Good communication skills, ability to coordinate with crew and supervisors.

• Ability to read and interpret maps, plans, site layouts, and technical documents.

• Clean driving record.

• Experience in municipal, industrial, or utility sectors a plus.

• Willingness to be on-call or respond to emergency work when needed.

Working Conditions

• Fieldwork on streets, worksites, manholes, possibly in traffic, tight spaces, or hazardous environments

• Exposure to waste, slurry, odors, dust, confined spaces

• Work hours may include overtime, night or weekend shifts, or emergency response

• PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required: gloves, hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, safety shoes, H2S monitors, etc.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their resume to: patricia@a-pluscontracting.com