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Certified Pool Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) Certification required; within 6 months of hire, Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Category 24 is required. Over 1 up to and including 2 years ...

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Certified Pool Operator information

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$12

$20

$35

How much do certified pool operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified pool operator in the United States is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a certified pool operator?

A Certified Pool Operator (CPO) is a person who has completed a specialized training program in pool and spa maintenance, water chemistry, and safety. This certification is often required by health departments for those responsible for operating public pools or spas. CPOs ensure pools are clean, safe, and compliant with regulations by monitoring water quality, handling chemicals, and maintaining equipment. The certification is typically obtained through a course and exam provided by organizations like the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance.

What are some common challenges a certified pool operator faces in maintaining pool water quality, and how can they be addressed?

Certified Pool Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating chemical levels, unexpected contamination, and equipment malfunctions. Maintaining consistent water quality requires regular testing, prompt adjustment of chemicals, and thorough record-keeping. Staying proactive with preventive maintenance on pumps and filters, and quickly addressing any issues, helps prevent larger problems and ensures a safe and enjoyable swimming environment. Collaborating with facility managers and maintenance staff is also essential for timely repairs and compliance with health regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certified pool operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certified Pool Operator, you need a thorough understanding of water chemistry, pool maintenance, and safety regulations, typically validated by completing a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) course and certification. Familiarity with pool filtration systems, automated chemical feeders, and testing kits is essential for daily operations and compliance. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with facility staff and patrons are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, clean, and well-maintained aquatic environments, preventing health hazards and regulatory violations.

What is the difference between Certified Pool Operator vs Pool Maintenance Technician?

AspectCertified Pool OperatorPool Maintenance Technician
CertificationsRequires CPO certification from NSPFMay have various certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPublic and private pools, water parks, resortsResidential and commercial pools, spas
Job ResponsibilitiesWater testing, chemical balancing, safety complianceCleaning, equipment maintenance, minor repairs

The Certified Pool Operator (CPO) typically holds a certification and oversees pool safety, water quality, and compliance. Pool Maintenance Technicians focus more on cleaning and maintaining pool equipment. While both roles work in pool environments, the CPO has a broader scope involving safety and regulation adherence, making it a more comprehensive certification for pool management.

How much does a certified pool operator make?

A certified pool operator in Florida typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The average annual salary ranges from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, with opportunities for overtime and additional certifications to increase earning potential.

What does it take to be a certified pool operator?

A certified pool operator typically needs to complete a state-approved training course and pass an exam to obtain certification. They should have knowledge of water chemistry, safety protocols, and pool maintenance, and often need to renew certification periodically. Practical experience and understanding of local regulations are also important for the role.

What cities are hiring for Certified Pool Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Pool Operator job openings:

What states have the most Certified Pool Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Certified Pool Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Certified Pool Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,704 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Part-Time Certified Pool Operator

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Perform minor repairs and adjustments to pool motors, valves, filters, and chemical systems.

  • Conduct tests to analyze and record the chemical content of pool water, maintaining proper water balance.

  • Maintain records of chemical usage, water additions, bather load, inventory, and equipment status.

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

236th of 629 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Penn State is searching for a full-time Swimming Pool Operator - Grade 6 to join the team. Duties include:
  • Perform minor repairs and adjustments to motors, valves, filters, and chemical systems of the swimming pools
  • Conduct periodic tests to analyze chemical content of pool water and record results as required by state health laws
  • Maintain proper acidity-alkalinity balance of water and determine amount of chemicals necessary to maintain proper balance
  • Read and interpret gauges, pressure valves and sight glasses to make proper adjustments to systems and record data
  • Take and record inventory of supplies of chemicals, towels, suits, keys, and various items of equipment
  • Collect water samples and send to Chemical Laboratory for bacteriological analysis as required by State Department of Health
  • Determine when filters need to be backwashed and perform backwashing operations; record information pertaining to backwash operations
  • Maintain records of chemicals used each day, amount of water added to pools, bather load for each program daily, inventory of chemical supplied, towel and suit laundry inventories, and room and water temperature daily
  • Receive and record items of supplies and equipment delivered to Natatorium Building for use in aquatic programs
  • Ensure that instructional equipment such as pool dividers, lane markers, electronic timing equipment, public address systems, scuba equipment and teaching devices and safety equipment, such as gas masks, mechanical resuscitators and rescue equipment are at hand and in proper working order
  • Accompany State Sanitary Inspectors during inspection and follow through with suggested changes in sanitary conditions
  • Test and operate mechanical resuscitator and gas masks and maintain familiarity with first aid techniques, including artificial ventilation and circulation methods
  • Direct the work of part-time employees working as life guards and general helpers and maintain schedule of work and record hours worked
  • Ensure the security of the building at times during working hours
  • Adjust heating and ventilating and shower systems as required
  • Responsible for the operation of the laundry washer and drying machine and the recording of the number of washings to determine suit durability
  • Operate and direct the operation of cash registers and the auditing procedures of the daily accounts of admission money involved in the indoor and outdoor pool operations
  • Operate and maintain the air compressor to fill self contained underwater breathing apparatus tanks in preparation for classes; ensure that pressure gauges pertaining to danger warnings are closely controlled during operation of compressor
  • Be knowledgeable of the weekly schedule of classes and special events as scheduled by the Aquatic Director to implement needs of specific programs
  • Responsible for the setting up and dismantling of competitive swimming equipment for men's and women's dual and championship meets
  • Drive University vehicle as required
  • Responsible for the assignment of baskets and locker rooms, dispensing and accounting of equipment for the class activities of tennis, soccer and touch football

Job Requirements: Requires the use of commercial English, grammar and arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, including decimals and fractions; simple use of formulas, charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, wiring diagrams, together with the use of adjustable measuring instruments, graduates and the like requiring interpretation in their various applications; or the posting, preparation, interpretation, use and checking of reports, forms, records and comparable data. Requires the use of commercial English, grammar and arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, including decimals and fractions; simple use of formulas, charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, wiring diagrams, together with the use of adjustable measuring instruments, graduates and the like requiring interpretation in their various applications; or the posting, preparation, interpretation, use and checking of reports, forms, records and comparable data.
Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) Certification required; within 6 months of hire, Pennsylvania Pesticide Applicator Certification with Category 24 is required.
Over 1 up to and including 2 years of effective experience.
Work Schedule: This position is as-needed and does not include a recurring part-time schedule. Shifts are offered only when full-time Pool Operators are unavailable for their scheduled shifts or decline overtime. Full-time Pool Operator staff are always given the opportunity for overtime before shifts are offered to the part-time Pool Operator.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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