HydroVac Operations Manager

Job description:

This role is responsible for both strategic growth and disciplined operational execution within the Arizona Hydrovac division. The Operations Manager oversees the full lifecycle of the division from securing long-term contracts and building client relationships to ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable field operations. Serving a key leader on the Maintenance Team, this role is responsible for building scalable processes, building a strong regional brand, and maintaining 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

Operational Excellence & Safety

• Oversee daily dispatch, scheduling, and field execution to ensure reliable, on-time service delivery
• Maintain strict compliance with OSHA, DOT, 811, Arizona 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
• Delivery of high-quality service and excellent customer communication/engagement

Market Expansion & Revenue Growth

• Identify and secure long-term service agreements with civil engineering firms, 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

Team Leadership & Development

• Hire, train, and develop high-performing team members aligned with role requirements and company standards (“right people in the right seats”)
• 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
• 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 a plus but not required

· Understanding of DOT compliance and Arizona labor regulations

· Solid computer skills, including Outlook and SharePoint, to support daily operations

· 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

Job Type: Full-time

Salary Range: $90,000-$100,000

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person