Overview
Hydro excavation relies on skilled professionals beyond equipment alone. The hydrovac crew—particularly operators and swampers—ensures safe, efficient, and compliant operations.
What Is a Hydrovac Operator?
The hydrovac operator controls and manages the hydrovac truck as a highly trained professional combining technical expertise with field safety awareness.
Key Responsibilities
- Truck Setup & Operation – Positioning the truck safely, engaging the PTO, and operating water and vacuum systems
- Water Pressure & Suction Control – Adjusting settings based on soil conditions, utility proximity, and environmental factors
- Safety Compliance – Ensuring work follows OSHA, local regulations, and "Call Before You Dig" protocols
- Job Site Coordination – Communicating with clients, contractors, and swampers
- Equipment Maintenance – Performing inspections, monitoring systems, and scheduling service
- Documentation & Reporting – Completing job reports, incident logs, and site records
Required Skills
- CDL (Commercial Driver's License)
- Mechanical and technical knowledge
- Safety certifications (confined space, first aid, H2S awareness)
- Leadership and communication abilities
What Is a Hydrovac Swamper?
The swamper—or technician—supports the operator in fieldwork, handling hands-on excavation tasks and safety support duties.
Key Responsibilities
- Hose & Nozzle Handling – Guiding water and vacuum hoses during excavation
- Utility Spotting & Ground Support – Monitoring for buried utilities and ensuring accuracy
- Traffic & Site Safety – Setting up cones, signage, and barriers
- Clean-Up & Site Management – Restoring work areas post-excavation
- Equipment Maintenance Assistance – Helping with hose inspections and debris tank cleaning
- Operator Communication – Relaying ground conditions, progress, and hazards
Required Skills
- Physical fitness and endurance
- Safety protocol adherence
- Utility locating knowledge
- Adaptability to varied conditions
Operator–Swamper Relationship
Success requires coordinated teamwork: "the operator focuses on truck systems, excavation precision, and compliance" while "the swamper manages on-the-ground safety, hose control, and excavation detail."
Industry Applications
Both roles serve multiple sectors:
- Oil & Gas
- Municipal Utilities
- Construction
- Telecommunications
- Transportation
Training & Certification
Operators need: CDL training, equipment operation certification, H2S, confined space, and OSHA excavation safety training.
Swampers need: Utility locating awareness, PPE use, safe hose handling, ground disturbance training, and site safety setup. Many companies also require first aid and CPR certification.
Conclusion
Both positions are essential for delivering the accuracy, safety, and efficiency that make hydrovac excavation the preferred modern choice for complex underground work.
