Hydrovac-Excavation Operator

Weve been around here a long time, even before the Eastern Iowa Corridor was ever a thing. 40 Years ago, Maxwell Construction, Inc. began its humble beginnings with a dream, an old worn-out rubber-tired backhoe and a prayerful vision of the future. One small project after another, the beginnings of the finest underground workforce in Iowa started taking root. Today, with over 50 full time employees, many of which have been here for over 25 years, are directed by our team of project managers and onsite supervisors.

Our underground site utility projects are successfully managed and completed on time and on budget with the very best heavy construction equipment and technologies available to the industry. With our eyes focused on the future, Maxwell Construction, Inc. looks forward to the next 40 years of continued growth and success.

Job Overview

Hydrovac-Excavation Operator

Maxwell Construction is seeking a dependable, hard-working Underground Utilities Crew Member to join our team. Ideally, we are seeking a candidate committed to training and development who will learn to lead our Hydro-Excavation operations. While prior experience working in municipal maintenance, environmental cleanup, and agriculture is a plus, it is not required. We are primarily looking for candidates with solid construction laborer experience, especially within underground utilities, site work, trenching, or municipal infrastructure projects.

This position works hands-on with our service crews supporting water main, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and site utility projects throughout the Eastern Iowa Corridor. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, able to operate heavy-duty machines and components, and ready to step into a leadership role when needed to keep the job moving.

• Assist with liquid vacuum truck for standard septic, sludge, and non-hazardous liquid removal.
• Support hydro-excavation projects which combine vacuum power with high-pressure water jetting to safely expose underground utilities (training provided).
• Execute sewer and drain cleaning and clog removal assignments using water and vacuum when needed (training provided).
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area that meets Maxwell safety standards.
• Communicate effectively with crew members, equipment operators, and supervisors.

• Experience with hydro-excavation (hydrovac) trucks, industrial vacuum loader trucks, liquid vacuum trucks, or combination sewer cleaners (jet/vac) trucks.
• Read and interpret construction plans, utility locates, and supervisor instructions.

• Prior experience in construction labor, utility installation, or site work.
• Ability to read basic plans and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong understanding of jobsite safety and safe work practices.
• Ability to work outdoors year-round in various weather conditions.
• Physically able to lift, carry, and perform repetitive labor tasks.
• Valid driver’s license required, CDL required.

Job Type: Full-time

• Competitive pay based on experience starting at $19/hr.

• Health insurance (Preventive Care, Telehealth Benefits, Health Support Programs)
• Dental / Vision insurance
• Company Sponsored Life insurance, Short-Term Disability
• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Profit sharing
• Employee Discount Program in partnership with Avant Perkspot

• Monday to Friday
• Overtime
• Weekends as needed

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location:

In person

Maxwell Construction is a leading underground utilities company located in Iowa City, Iowa. Established over 40 years ago, Maxwell Construction has been a cornerstone in the development of the Eastern Iowa Corridor and is dedicated to delivering exceptional services while ensuring safety, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

We value safety, professionalism, and building long-term careers for our employees.

Interested candidates may submit their resume and apply in person at:

Maxwell Construction

3011 Sierra Ct. SW, Iowa City, Iowa 52240

Or Apply Online At