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Drinking Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Town of Granby

Water Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

... drinking water, and coordinates water quality sampling and analysis. Ability to learn, if not ... Experience as heavy equipment operator helpful, not required. Electrical, plumbing, and welding ...

Town of Granby

Water Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

... on drinking water, and coordinates water quality sampling and analysis. • Ability to learn, if ... operator helpful, not required. • Electrical, plumbing, and welding experience helpful, not ...

HKA Enterprises

Water / Wastewater Operator

Quincy, WA · On-site

$22/hr

Wastewater or Drinking Water operator certification * Prior experience in water/wastewater or a ... related utility environment * Knowledge of pumps, valves, motors, hand tools, and power tools ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The ... safe drinking water and, in many cases, wastewater and stormwater services within a defined ...

City of Brandon

PW Water Operator 1

Brandon, MS · On-site

... drinking water in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Operate, inspect, maintain, and repair municipal groundwater wells ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

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Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The ... safe drinking water and, in many cases, wastewater and stormwater services within a defined ...

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Drinking Water Operator information

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$31

$94

How much do drinking water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drinking water operator in the United States is $31.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drinking water operator?

A Drinking Water Operator is a trained professional responsible for operating and maintaining systems that treat and deliver safe drinking water to the public. Their duties include monitoring water quality, managing treatment processes, conducting tests to ensure compliance with regulations, and maintaining equipment. They play a critical role in protecting public health by ensuring that water meets safety standards set by regulatory agencies. Drinking Water Operators may work for municipalities, private companies, or water utilities, and often require certification or licensing depending on local requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drinking water operator?

To thrive as a Drinking Water Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, chemistry, and regulatory requirements, often supported by a high school diploma and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and water quality monitoring tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for ensuring compliance and responding to operational issues. These skills are critical to maintaining safe, reliable drinking water supplies and meeting public health standards.

What are some common challenges faced by drinking water operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Drinking Water Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with strict water quality regulations, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and responding to unexpected system issues like line breaks or contamination events. Addressing these requires a strong understanding of water treatment processes, attention to detail, and quick problem-solving skills. Regular training, effective communication with team members, and proactive maintenance routines are critical for overcoming these challenges and ensuring safe, reliable water delivery to the community.

What is the difference between Drinking Water Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectDrinking Water OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsState-specific water operator licensesSimilar water treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentMunicipal water systems, treatment facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal or industrial
Job FocusEnsuring safe drinking water qualityOperating and maintaining water treatment equipment

Both roles involve operating water treatment systems and require similar certifications. The Drinking Water Operator primarily focuses on ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water, often working in municipal water systems. The Water Treatment Plant Operator may work in broader water treatment facilities, including industrial settings. While their duties overlap, the Drinking Water Operator emphasizes compliance with drinking water standards, making it a specialized role within the water treatment industry.

Are drinking water operators in high demand?

Drinking water operators are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for safe and clean water supply systems. Employment opportunities are often available in municipal, industrial, and environmental sectors, especially for those with proper certifications and technical skills.

How much do drinking water operators make?

In Michigan, drinking water operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level operators may start at lower wages, while experienced operators with advanced certifications can earn higher salaries and additional benefits.

Is being a drinking water operator worth it?

A drinking water operator manages the treatment and distribution of potable water, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. The job often requires certification, involves working in various environments, and offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement.

What cities are hiring for Drinking Water Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Drinking Water Operator job openings:

What states have the most Drinking Water Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drinking Water Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Drinking Water Operator jobs?

For Drinking Water Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Drinking Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drinking Water Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,061 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Water Operator I-Part Time

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

City of Fort Wayne
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about City of Fort Wayneexternal

$27.73/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

City Of Fort Wayne rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Water Operator I
Schedule: Up to 29 Hours Per Week Flexible Schedule Based on Operational Needs
Do you enjoy solving problems in the field, working outdoors, and keeping essential services running for your community? We're looking for someone who is mechanically inclined, dependable, and ready to take ownership of critical water system operations.
What You'll Do
As a Water Operator I, you'll help maintain and operate Fort Wayne's water distribution system, ensuring residents and businesses receive safe, reliable water service. This hands-on role combines troubleshooting, field investigations, equipment operation, and customer service while working directly within the City's water infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
  • Investigate water quality concerns, low-pressure issues, leaks, hydrant problems, and service interruptions throughout the distribution system
  • Operate specialized equipment including valve-turning and vac-all machines while performing flushing, valve operations, and system maintenance
  • Inspect, test, repair, and maintain hydrants, valves, service connections, curb boxes, and other water system assets
  • Coordinate water main shutdowns, assist with infrastructure mapping updates, and communicate planned service interruptions to customers
  • Maintain accurate records, follow safety procedures, work in confined spaces, and support training and operational activities as needed

What You Bring | Education & Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum of two years of related maintenance, utility, construction, public works, mechanical, or field operations experience
  • Ability to work independently and solve problems in the field
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety

Preferred Certifications
  • Confined Space Certification
  • Valid Indiana Driver's License

Technical Skills & Knowledge
  • Ability to read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and system diagrams
  • Experience with water distribution systems, valves, hydrants, and underground utilities preferred
  • Ability to use Apple-based iPads and electronic recordkeeping systems
  • Knowledge of troubleshooting mechanical and operational issues in the field
  • Understanding of water system maintenance and utility operations preferred

Why Work for the City of Fort Wayne?
Every day, you'll help protect one of the community's most essential resources-clean, reliable drinking water. This position offers meaningful work, hands-on field experience, and the opportunity to develop specialized utility operations skills while serving the residents of Fort Wayne.
The City of Fort Wayne offers a collaborative team environment, valuable public service experience, and participation in the Indiana PERF retirement pension plan.
Equal Opportunity Employer

What City Of Fort Wayne employees say

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