Hydrovac Operator

Hydrovac Operator

A Hydrovac Operator in the oilfield industry operates specialized equipment to perform non-destructive excavation using high-pressure water and a vacuum system. This role involves safely and efficiently excavating soil and debris around underground utilities, pipelines, and other infrastructure to facilitate repairs, installations, or inspections. The Hydrovac Operator plays a critical role in ensuring the integrity of underground assets while adhering to strict safety and environmental standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate hydrovac trucks and equipment to perform non-destructive excavation using hydro-excavation wands, vacuum hoses, and water pumps.
• Excavate soil and other materials with pressurized water while using vacuum systems to remove debris and maintain a safe, organized worksite.
• Expose underground utilities, pipelines, and cables without damage through precise excavation techniques.
• Complete daily pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure trucks and equipment are safe, functional, and compliant with regulations.
• Perform routine and daily maintenance on trucks and equipment, including lubrication, fluid checks, inspections, and minor troubleshooting.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including PPE use, hazard identification, and equipment inspections.
• Implement environmental protection measures to prevent erosion, runoff, and contamination during excavation activities.
• Prepare worksites by placing traffic control devices, barricades, and warning signage in compliance with safety requirements.
• Accurately complete daily tickets and job documentation for personal work and crew members at the end of each workday.
• Maintain records of excavation activities, equipment usage, maintenance, and safety inspections.
• Coordinate with supervisors, utility locators, and crew members to plan work and communicate progress.
• Train and support crew members in equipment operation and field procedures, ensuring safe operation without driving unless properly CDL licensed.
• Respond effectively to equipment issues, emergencies, or unsafe conditions to protect personnel and property.

Required Skills:

• Possession of a valid commercial driver's license (CDL) with appropriate endorsements (e.g., Class A or B, Tanker) required for operating hydrovac trucks on public roads.
• Demonstrated skill and experience in operating hydrovac equipment, including proficiency in controlling water pressure, vacuum suction, and excavation speed.
• Strong commitment to safety, with knowledge of safety regulations, procedures, and best practices in hydrovac operations, excavation, and construction.
• Basic understanding of equipment mechanics and ability to perform routine maintenance tasks, such as changing filters, inspecting hoses, and troubleshooting hydraulic systems.
• Ability to identify and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, hydraulic leaks, or other technical issues that may arise during hydrovac operations, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills to interact with supervisors, colleagues, and clients, conveying information clearly and professionally.
• Physical fitness and endurance to handle the demands of operating hydrovac equipment for extended periods, lifting heavy hoses, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Keen attention to detail to ensure accurate excavation, proper disposal of excavated materials, and compliance with project specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with utility locators, excavators, and other stakeholders to accomplish shared goals and objectives.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience working in the oil and gas industry, particularly in excavation, construction, or utility maintenance roles, is advantageous due to familiarity with industry-specific requirements and procedures.
• Knowledge of utility locating techniques and equipment, such as electromagnetic locators and ground-penetrating radar, to assist in identifying underground utilities and avoiding accidental damage.
• Certification or training in emergency response procedures, first aid, or confined space rescue to effectively handle emergencies encountered during hydrovac operations.
• Understanding of environmental regulations and best practices related to soil erosion control, sediment management, and spill prevention to minimize environmental impact during excavation activities.

Education Requirements:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: A high school diploma or GED is typically required for CDL hydrovac operator positions.
• Commercial Driver's License (CDL): Successful completion of CDL training and attainment of a valid CDL with appropriate endorsements (e.g., Tanker, Hazardous Materials) is mandatory.
• Hydrovac Training: Completion of hydrovac operator training programs or certifications from reputable institutions or equipment manufacturers is preferred.
• Safety Training: Participation in safety training programs, such as excavation safety, confined space entry, and hazardous materials handling, to ensure compliance with industry safety standards and regulations.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job (but are not limited to). The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, or crouch for extended periods of time, unassisted. The incumbent must wear a respirator when required. Manual and finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination sufficient to operate industrial machinery is required. This job also requires full range of body motion to include handling and lifting. The incumbent must repeatedly lift and/or move up to 65 (SIXTY-FIVE) pounds unassisted. Visual acuity, hearing, speaking, reading, and writing must be adequate to perform all required tasks in a safe manner.

Work Environment:

The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Work is usually done outdoors and sometimes at a client facility or job site and is frequently performed in inclement and/or extreme weather conditions. The incumbent is exposed to electricity, moving mechanical parts, vehicles, equipment, and hazardous materials. This position regularly requires long work hours and frequent weekend work.

AAP/EEO Statement:

It is the policy of TTK Enterprises, LLC to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, TTK Enterprises, LLC will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.