Business Development & Operations Manager (Hydrovac)

Overview

This role is designed for a high-impact leader responsible for both aggressive market development and disciplined operational execution within the Southern California Hydrovac division.

The Business Development & Operations Manager owns the full lifecycle of the division from securing long-term contracts and building client relationships ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable field operations. Serving as the Integrator of the local business unit, this role is responsible for transforming subcontracted services into a self-performing, scalable operation while building a strong regional brand and a high-utilization fleet.

This position requires a strong field presence, direct client engagement, and hands-on operational leadership across dispatch, field execution, safety, and fleet performance.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Market Expansion & Revenue Growth

• Identify and secure service agreements with civil engineering firms, property managers, facility managers, utility companies, and municipal public works departments
• Lead estimating and bid development to ensure competitive and profitable pricing
• Develop and maintain relationships with Tier-1 contractors and municipal agencies
• Drives business growth by conducting in-person drop-ins to build relationships, generate opportunities, and maintain a strong client presence
• Represent the company at industry events to support brand growth in Southern California
• Plans and delivers engaging service education to clients, strengthen relationships, and generate new business opportunities

Operational Excellence & Safety

• Oversee daily dispatch, scheduling, and field execution to ensure reliable, on-time service delivery
• Maintain strict compliance with OSHA, DOT, 811, CARB, and California environmental regulations
• Enforce a zero-incident safety culture through training, audits, and field oversight
• Ensure proper handling and disposal of materials in compliance with local water and environmental regulations
• Ensures accuracy and quality by reviewing job scope and completed work, then processing projects for timely and accurate invoicing.

Team Leadership & Development

• Hire, train, and develop high-performing team members aligned with role requirements and company standards (“right people in the right seats”)
• Ensures all documentation, notes, and activities are accurately recorded and maintained in the CRM system to support visibility and workflow efficiency.
• Build a strong accountability-driven team culture focused on safety, performance, and customer service
• Provide ongoing coaching in equipment operation, jobsite safety, and client interaction

Fleet & Resource Management

• Optimize fleet utilization to maximize productive field time
• Schedule field resources for inspections and field operations for service execution.
• Oversee preventative maintenance programs to reduce downtime and repair costs
• Coordinate equipment availability with operational and project demands

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• 5+ years of experience in Hydrovac, underground utility, or heavy civil construction industries
• 3+ years in leadership or operational management roles
• Proven ability to build and grow a customer base in industrial or construction services
• Strong technical knowledge of hydrovac systems, vacuum trucks, and soft dig excavation methods
• Valid Class A or B CDL required (Tanker endorsement preferred)
• Understanding of DOT compliance and California labor regulations
• Strong ownership mindset with ability to operate autonomously

PERFORMANCE METRICS

· Revenue growth through new account acquisition and contract expansion

· Fleet utilization rate of 85% or higher

· Maintenance of an Experience Modification Rate (EMR) below industry average

· Successful transition of the division into a self-sustaining operational unit