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Chief Wastewater Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Belton

Wastewater Plant Operator

Belton, MO · On-site

$22.64/hr

Chief Operator GENERAL PURPOSE: Under general supervision, assists in the operation of the wastewater treatment plant and collection systems to protect the environment and comply with local, state ...

City of Belton

Wastewater Plant Operator

Belton, MO

Chief Operator GENERAL PURPOSE: Under general supervision, assists in the operation of the wastewater treatment plant and collection systems to protect the environment and comply with local, state ...

Hernando County, FL

Wastewater Plant Operator I

Brooksville, FL · On-site

$49K - $68K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Wastewater Operations Opening Date: 05/13/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Non-Exempt Bargaining ... the Chief Operator or Supervisor. * Uses a variety of field test kits to conduct tests on ...

CITY OF HIDALGO

Waste Water Operator

Hidalgo, TX

$15 - $17/hr

Wastewater Operator Classification: Non-Exempt Department: Waste Water Division: Public Works Job ... Chief Operator's absence. * Able to perform general janitorial work in maintaining the plant ...

Purdue University

Water/Waste Water Operator SK1

West Lafayette, IN · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Water/Waste Water Operator SK1 City: West Lafayette Job Summary Wastewater Operator - Wastewater ... Crew Chief as needed * Achieve mandatory wastewater certifications within 36 months (Class A ...

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All JobsChief Wastewater Operator Jobs

Chief Wastewater Operator information

See salary details

$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief wastewater operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief wastewater operator in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief wastewater operator?

Chief Wastewater Operators are responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities. They manage a team of operators, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and monitor systems to ensure the safe and efficient treatment of wastewater. Their duties often include supervising staff, troubleshooting equipment issues, preparing reports, and coordinating with local and state agencies. Chief Wastewater Operators play a critical role in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring that wastewater is properly treated before being released or reused.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a chief wastewater operator?

To thrive as a Chief Wastewater Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and typically a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory analysis equipment, and maintenance management software is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set top operators apart in managing teams and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and the protection of public health and the environment.

What is the difference between Chief Wastewater Operator vs Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectChief Wastewater OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification and additional supervisory credentialsRequires a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple shifts, manages staff, and ensures complianceOperates and monitors equipment in the treatment plant
ResponsibilitiesSupervises staff, manages plant operations, and handles complex issuesPerforms daily operational tasks and routine maintenance

The main difference is that the Chief Wastewater Operator has supervisory responsibilities, oversees plant operations, and manages staff, while the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator focuses on daily operational tasks and equipment operation. Both roles require certification, but the chief role involves leadership and oversight functions.

What challenges do chief wastewater operators face when managing plant operations and staff?

Chief Wastewater Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with evolving environmental regulations, ensuring equipment is functioning optimally, and managing a diverse team with varying experience levels. They must frequently troubleshoot unexpected mechanical or process issues while balancing budget constraints and resource allocation. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the role requires close collaboration with engineers, regulatory agencies, and plant personnel to keep operations running smoothly and safely.
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What states have the most Chief Wastewater Operator jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Chief Wastewater Operator jobs look for?

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Chief Wastewater Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Wastewater Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Wastewater Plant Operator III

City of Johnson City

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$24.35/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee is accepting online applications for a Wastewater Plant Operator III. The employee performs intermediate technical work supervising and participating in the operation of the Brush Creek WWTP; does related work as required. An employee in this class is responsible for overseeing the safe, economical operation of a wastewater treatment plant in accordance with modern public health standards on an assigned shift. Employees in this class maintain a constant check on the sewage treatment and pump processes. The work is performed under the general supervision of the Chief Wastewater Plant Operator who reviews work through discussions and examination of plant records and reports.
Essential Functions of Position:
  • oversees, supervises and participates in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant;
  • schedules and directs plant operations and maintenance;
  • continually checks chemical feeders or UV disinfection system and is responsible for the finished product at a treatment plant;
  • informs other operators of changes or adjustments that need to be made to improve treatment;
  • reviews plant log records, gauges, meters, and other plant testing and measuring devices to see that equipment is functioning properly;
  • orders supplies and responds to emergency calls;
  • performs the same duties as a Wastewater Plant Operator II;
  • keeps abreast of professional developments in the field;
  • collects samples and runs pH, D.O. and other operational tests;
  • assists maintenance personnel with repair of machinery and equipment;
  • prepares requisitions for plant supplies and materials;
  • trains subordinate plant operators;
  • conducts annual inspections required by State Department of Health and Environment;
  • keeps records, and prepares daily and monthly reports on plant operations;
  • Inform operators I and II of the Lone Worker program and ensure participation;
  • Schedules and places orders for chemical deliveries;
  • Responsible for regular maintenance and proper operation of automatic sampling equipment;
  • Schedules solid waste services as needed;
  • Act as a backup operator for the package treatment plant as needed;
  • Communicate with other Operator III's and Chief WWTP Operator regarding sludge hauling schedules;
  • Interacts with septage hauling companies and ensures haul tickets are completed properly;
  • Monitors plant and pump station alarms through SCADA or field observations and reports issues in a timely manner;
  • Ensures safety practices of workforce and facilities;
  • performs related tasks as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, equipment, materials and operating procedures of a modern wastewater treatment plant; thorough knowledge of bacteriological and chemical processes involved in the treatment of sewage; thorough knowledge of the occupational hazards connected with wastewater treatment plant operation and of necessary safety precautions; ability to maintain records and prepare reports; ability to supervise the work of others.
Ability to run and troubleshoot dewatering equipment as needed.
Ability to learn proper operation of new equipment and train subordinates.
Ability to manage high flows using existing equipment and facilities to minimize impacts on the plants.
Ability to work with outside contractors during construction projects or upgrades and maintain plant compliance
Ability to work with laboratory staff and management to schedule routine and non-routine samples.
Acceptable Experience and Training: Completion of an associate's degree in Environmental Health or related field, preferably including or supplemented by courses in chemistry and considerable experience at the level of Wastewater Plant Operator II; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform in this position. Possession of a Wastewater Plant Operator's Grade IV Certificate issued by the State of Tennessee. Pre-employment physical, drug screening and background check required.
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