Equipment Operator

Equipment Operators

Thompson Industrial, Powered by Clean Harbors, in Buckner, KY is looking for Equipment Operators to work at various customer locations, and to join their safety conscious team! This team member is responsible for the successful execution of setting up and assisting with water treatment systems, pipeline hydrostatic testing and various other responsibilities. The Equipment Operators serves as representative of Thompson Industrial in creating a continuous working relationship with clients/customers.

Work Environment: Industrial setting – Refinery, Petro-Chemical, Utilities, Pulp and Paper Mills, etc.

Position Located In: Buckner, KY

Work Schedule: 8 hour rotating shifts (Overtime as needed)

Travel: Up to 15% (Per Diem Allowance)

Please Read All Key Responsibilities - You May Be A Great Fit!!!

Experience with operating heavy equipment required!

Why work for Thompson Industrial:

• Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5!
• Competitive wages
• Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment
• Group 401K with company matching component
• Own part of Clean Harbors with our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (U.S. Only)
• Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career
• Generous paid time off, company paid training and tuition reimbursement
• Positive and safe work environments

Responsibilities

• Act as safety representative responsible for safety policies and procedures of both the company and the customer, including hands-on information regarding operations, safety, equipment, emergency response and administrative functions.
• Hands-on operation vacuum equipment and hydroblasting equipment.
• Operation of special equipment, such as Ultra High-Pressure pumps.
• Operate equipment by energizing the pumping equipment and/or any specialized hydroblasting and/or chemical cleaning equipment, vacuum trucks and cutting equipment being used on the job.
• May be required to examine surface cleaned to ensure conformance to company and customer specifications.
• Perform routine maintenance on company equipment being used on the job.
• Perform any and all duties associated with liquid vacs, air machines and jet rodders.
• May direct a crew of vacuum technicians.
• May transport equipment and personnel to and from customer locations.
• Completes pre and post trip inspections, driver's logs and complies with all other vehicle policy and DOT requirements.
• Loading and unloading hoses.
• Unload vacuum truck at the dump site.
• Provide general maintenance in the field.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Physical demands:

• Must be able to wear protective clothing or equipment. This includes, but is not limited to Nomex coveralls, a back belt, slicker suits, rubber boots, a fresh air breathing mask and escape pack and a hard hat.
• Must be able to work under extreme climate conditions (excessive high heat index of 95+ degrees Fahrenheit, 98% humidity and subzero weather conditions) relative to geographic location.
• Must be able to withstand exposure to dust, chemical and environmental, fumes (chemical and fluids), exhaust and highly pressurized fluids.
• Lift 50 lbs.

What does it take to work for Thompson Industrial?

• High school diploma/GED or equivalent experience
• Drivers License. Other requirements of company's driving policy required when driving company vehicle or using personal vehicle on company business.
• Specific vocational preparation including classroom safety training, on-the-job training and essential experience gained on other jobs.
• Language proficiency: understand English at a level to comprehend safety training and respond to instructions in emergency situations.
• Smartphone required for Electronic Logging Device.
• Federal Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) may be required, company will pay for.
• Must be knowledgeable in the operation of emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers.
• Experience operating a vacuum truck.
• Working knowledge of operating equipment used in wet and dry vacuums.
• OSHA certification may be required for this job;
• Must be knowledgeable in the operation of emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers

About Thompson Industrial

Thompson Industrial, a Clean Harbors company, is the premier industrial cleaning and environmental services company in North America supporting the upstream, downstream, and utility sectors. Thompson Industrial offers an exceptional three-pronged safety system, innovative career development platform, committed customer service, deep industry expertise, and advanced technology and automation. We are committed to safety, people, growth, service, and performance. We provide the safest, most efficient operational experience for our customers and the most comprehensive training and career development for our employees.

40-years of sustainability in action. At Clean Harbors, our mission is to create a safer, cleaner environment through the treatment, recycling, and disposal of hazardous materials. Clean Harbors is the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Everywhere industry meets environment, Clean Harbors is on-site, providing premier environmental, energy and industrial services. We are solving tough problems through innovation and proven methodology – come be part of the solution with us.

Join our safety focused team today! To learn more about our company, and to apply online for this exciting opportunity, visit us at

Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer.

Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io.

Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.

Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.

Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

*TIS

Job Info

• Job Identification 168127
• Job Category Drivers
• Posting Date 10/28/2026, 03:11 PM
• Locations 3514 Mattingly Road, Buckner, KY, 40010, US
• Job Schedule Full time
• Posting Brand Tag Thompson Industrial Services
• Pay Range 14.90 - 34.62 Hourly
• Job Function Operators
• Regular or Temporary Regular