CDL Heavy Equipment Operator – Hydro‑Demolition

  • Houston, Texas, United States
  • Full-Time
  • On-Site
  • 25-30 USD / Hour

Job Description:

Position Summary

The CDL Hydro-Demolition Operator is responsible for safely transporting, setting up, operating, and maintaining ultra-high-pressure (UHP) hydro-demolition equipment on industrial, bridge, power, and infrastructure projects.This role requires a Class A or B CDL and combines skilled equipment operation with strict safety discipline, production efficiency, and asset accountability. Operators are expected to uphold ATIs zero-incident safety standard while meeting project production and margin targets.

Core Responsibilities CDL & Transportation Duties

  • Safely operate and transport hydro-demolition trucks and trailers
  • Conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections (DOT compliant)
  • Maintain driver logs and comply with FMCSA regulations
  • Secure loads and equipment properly
  • Maintain clean, organized, and professional vehicles

Hydro-Demolition Operations

  • Operate UHP pumps (20,000–40,000 PSI systems)
  • Operate robotic hydro-demolition units (e.g., Aqua Cutter 710V, Aqua Cutter 750V)
  • Set up hoses, towers, water systems, and vacuum recovery
  • Monitor pressure, flow rate, and production performance
  • Adjust operating parameters to meet removal depth specifications
  • Assist in tower stacking and structural setups (as required)
  • Perform confined space and elevated work when necessary

Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all OSHA, DOT, and ATI safety policies
  • Participate in daily JHAs and toolbox talks
  • Maintain 100% PPE compliance
  • Support ATIs zero-incident safety culture
  • Immediately report hazards, leaks, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe conditions
  • Ensure all hydro systems are depressurized before maintenance

Equipment & Asset Management

  • Perform daily inspection of pumps, hoses, nozzles, and fittings
  • Maintain proper lubrication and preventative maintenance logs
  • Track engine hours and service intervals
  • Protect high-value ATI hydro assets from damage
  • Assist mechanics with troubleshooting when necessary

Productivity & Performance

  • Meet production removal rates (SQFT/day or CY/day targets)
  • Minimize downtime and mechanical delays
  • Maintain high-quality surface profile per spec
  • Support division gross margin performance targets
  • Maintain professional client interaction on-site

Required Qualifications

  • Valid Class A or B CDL (clean driving record required)
  • 2+ years heavy equipment or hydro-demolition experience preferred
  • Experience with UHP systems preferred
  • Ability to travel regionally and nationwide
  • Ability to lift 75+ lbs
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to work nights, weekends, and outage schedules

Preferred Certifications

  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30
  • Confined Space Certification
  • Fall Protection Certification
  • Rigging Certification
  • TWIC (for industrial and port access)

Physical Requirements

  • Exposure to high-pressure water systems
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • Prolonged standing, climbing, lifting, bending
  • Noise exposure (hearing protection required)

Performance Metrics (Monitored)

  • Safety compliance & incident record
  • DOT compliance & vehicle inspection record
  • Equipment damage frequency
  • Production rates vs. estimate
  • Crew efficiency & teamwork
  • Rework rate
  • Client satisfaction feedback

Compensation & Advancement

  • Competitive hourly pay (CDL differential included)
  • Per diem & travel pay (when applicable)
  • Overtime opportunities
  • Safety incentive eligibility
  • Advancement path to:
    • Lead Hydro Operator
    • Hydro Foreman
    • Hydro Superintendent

Why Join?

  • Work on critical infrastructure projects nationwide
  • Operate industry-leading UHP systems
  • Performance-driven culture
  • Strong safety-first environment
  • Career growth into leadership roles