Vacuum Truck Operator

Job Overview

Under general supervision, operates and maintains vacuum truck equipment used to clean and maintain the City’s sanitary sewer, storm drainage, lift station, and related utility systems. Assists with sewer maintenance, repairs, and emergency response activities.

Specific Tasks, Duties, & Responsibilities

• Operate vacuum truck and related equipment to clean sanitary sewer lines, storm drains, manholes, lift stations, and other utility infrastructure.


• Perform high-pressure water jetting to clear blockages and clean sewer and drainage lines.


• Use vacuum equipment to remove wastewater, debris, grease, sludge, sand, and other materials from manholes, wet wells, excavation sites, and related areas.


• Inspect the vacuum truck and equipment and maintain appropriate fluid levels, hoses, pumps, nozzles, and other operating components.


• Complete daily vehicle inspections, maintenance records, work orders, and other required documentation.


• Assist with cleaning and maintenance of sewer lift stations, including removal of debris from wet wells.


• Assist maintenance crews with sewer line repairs, manhole repairs, excavations, and other collection system work.


• Assist with storm-related activities, including checking and clearing sewer mains and storm drains.


• Transport and dispose of collected wastewater, sludge, debris, and other materials in accordance with established procedures.


• Set up and follow appropriate traffic control and work-zone procedures when working in or near roadways.


• Maintain assigned vehicle, tools, and equipment in a safe and orderly condition.


• Respond to sewer backups, blockages, storm events, and other emergency situations as required.


• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Worker Requirements

   Education, Licenses & Certifications

• High school diploma or GED.


• Valid Class B Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

   Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to safely operate a vacuum truck, high-pressure jetting equipment, and related tools and equipment.


• Ability to inspect equipment and identify basic maintenance or operational concerns.


• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, work orders, and established procedures.


• Ability to complete required vehicle, maintenance, and work documentation.


• Ability to work safely around wastewater, moving traffic, heavy equipment, and excavation sites.


• Ability to work independently and as part of a maintenance crew.


• Ability to follow established safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment.

   Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to perform moderate to heavy physical activity, including standing, walking, bending, climbing, reaching, lifting, pushing, and pulling.


• Ability to lift and handle materials and equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.


• Work is primarily performed outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.


• Regular exposure to wastewater, sewage, odors, traffic, loud equipment, wet conditions, and other utility-related hazards while using required protective equipment.

Hours/Scheduling

• Typical work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.


• Participates in a scheduled on-call rotation.


• May be required to respond to emergency or after-hours calls.


• Overtime or schedule adjustments may be required based on operational needs.