CDL Hydro‑Demolition Operator

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 the company zero‑incident safety standard while meeting project production and margin targets. Operations may frequently take place outside the Houston area for periods ranging from a week to a month or longer; hotel and per diem are fully covered. Candidates without prior hydro‑demolition experience can be trained on UHP and robotic equipment.

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