Vacuum Truck Operator

About the role

Join the Three Waters Department team as a Vacuum Truck Operator, responsible for safely collecting and transporting liquid waste, sludge, and wastewater from council facilities. You will ensure proper disposal at authorised treatment sites while maintaining high safety and environmental standards.

Key responsibilities

• Operate vacuum pumps, hoses, valves and fittings to extract waste materials.
• Complete site‑specific risk assessments and establish exclusion zones, traffic controls and hose routes.
• Inspect tanks, pits, sumps, septic systems, interceptors and access points.
• Collect and maintain accurate transport and disposal records.
• Identify and report issues promptly with supporting evidence.

Required profile

• Current, clean New Zealand driver’s licence (Classes 2‑5).
• At least 2 years experience operating heavy vehicles and industrial equipment.
• Ability to work independently and prioritise routine and reactive tasks.
• Strong commitment to health, safety and environmental standards.
• Effective communication skills and teamwork orientation.

Required skills

• Vacuum pump operation.
• Handling of hoses, valves and fittings.
• Heavy vehicle operation.
• Industrial equipment operation.