ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HR Synergy

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Town of Milford is seeking a skilled and motivated Wastewater Treatment Operator to join our Water Utilities Department. This role performs a variety of semi‑skilled and skilled duties related ...

Clean Harbors

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Bristol, CT · On-site

$23/hr

The Wastewater Treatment Operator will be responsible for providing operations and maintenance of the wastewater systems using safe operating procedures. Shift: Monday-Friday 9am-7pm. OT and weekends ...

Atlas Copco

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Hudson, MI · On-site

The Wastewater Treatment Operator will operate the wastewater treatment system, operate the mechanical plating line, machine maintenance, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise. Operators are ...

King County

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$42.77 - $68/hr

About this Role Working under the direction of the Wastewater Treatment Operator - Senior In Charge, this position plays a key role in the operation, maintenance, and repair of pumps, conveyance ...

Atlas Copco

The Wastewater Treatment Operator will operate the wastewater treatment system, operate the mechanical plating line, machine maintenance, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise. Operators are ...

HR Synergy

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

Salary: $25-30/hr The Town of Milford is seeking a skilled and motivated Wastewater Treatment Operator to join our Water Utilities Department. This role performs a variety of semiskilled and skilled ...

King County, WA

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$42.78 - $51.92/hr

About this Role Working under the direction of the Wastewater Treatment Operator - Senior In Charge, this position plays a key role in the operation, maintenance, and repair of pumps, conveyance ...

Abbott

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Casa Grande, AZ · On-site

$20.85/hr

Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificate Shift Rotating 4x10s Monday-Friday 0600-1630 & 0930-2000 & Saturday-Sunday 0600-1630. Subject to change depending on need In compliance with federal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWastewater Treatment Operator JobsEntry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator Jobs

Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator information

See salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do entry level wastewater treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wastewater treatment operator in the United States is $28.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level wastewater treatment operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent with the ability to obtain state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pumps, and laboratory testing equipment is commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this position. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient operation of treatment facilities, compliance with regulations, and protection of public health and the environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator vs Wastewater Treatment Technician?

AspectEntry Level Wastewater Treatment OperatorWastewater Treatment Technician
CertificationsTypically requires a state operator certification or trainee licenseOften requires similar certifications, may include additional technical training
Work EnvironmentPlant facilities, treatment tanks, and control roomsSimilar plant environments, may involve more field inspections
Job FocusMonitoring and maintaining treatment processes, basic troubleshootingPerforming operational tasks, data collection, and equipment maintenance

Both roles involve working in wastewater treatment plants, requiring similar certifications and work environments. The main difference lies in job focus, with operators primarily monitoring processes and technicians often handling more technical tasks. These positions are often used interchangeably, but understanding their specific responsibilities can help in choosing the right career path.

What does an entry level wastewater treatment operator do?

An Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator is responsible for monitoring and maintaining the equipment and processes used to treat wastewater before it is released back into the environment. Their duties typically include collecting water samples, performing basic tests, recording data, and ensuring that treatment systems operate efficiently and safely. They may also assist with routine maintenance, cleaning, and troubleshooting of mechanical equipment. This role is important for protecting public health and the environment by making sure water treatment meets regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level wastewater treatment operators, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level wastewater treatment operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning complex equipment operations, and maintaining strict safety and environmental regulations. These challenges can be overcome by actively seeking mentorship from experienced operators, participating in on-site training programs, and consistently reviewing safety protocols. Additionally, asking questions and engaging with team members fosters a supportive environment that accelerates learning and helps new operators build confidence in their daily responsibilities.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator jobs include:
Entry Level Wastewater Treatment Operator jobs near you

Wastewater Treatment Operator

The City of Sunbury

Delaware, OH

$24 - $39.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity: Wastewater Treatment Operator with The City of Sunbury in Delaware County, OH Are you hands-on, mechanically minded, and interested in building a stable career that directly supports a growing community? Do you take pride in keeping essential systems running safely and reliably? If so, the City of Sunbury wants to hear from you!

The City of Sunbury is seeking a dependable and motivated individual to serve as Wastewater Treatment Operator. This full-time position reports directly to the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator of Record and assists with all aspects of wastewater treatment plant and collection system operations. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with related hands-on experience—or someone looking to start a meaningful career in wastewater operations—with on-the-job training and a pathway to state certifications.

Compensation: $24.00 - $39.90 based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Benefits: The City of Sunbury offers a great benefits package, along with training and support for employees interested in pursuing state wastewater certifications.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist with day-to-day operations of the wastewater treatment plant and collection system.
  • Support the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator of Record in maintaining safe, efficient, and compliant plant operations.
  • Perform hands-on operational, maintenance, and general labor tasks related to wastewater treatment and collection systems.
  • Assist with equipment, grounds, building, mechanical, electrical, and utility maintenance as needed.
  • Respond to occasional after-hours emergency call-ins and provide weekend coverage when scheduled.
  • Participate in on-the-job training and work toward wastewater treatment or collection system certifications.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid state driver's license.
  • Must live near the Sunbury area.

Helpful Qualifications:

  • Experience in wastewater or a related field.
  • Background in underground utilities, general construction, farm work, heavy equipment, mechanical work, electrical work, grounds maintenance, building maintenance, CDL operation, or other related hands-on skills.
  • Wastewater certifications in treatment or collections are a plus but not required.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position, typically Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Shifts may include weekends and occasional after-hours emergency call-in coverage.

About the City of Sunbury:

Sunbury is a fast-growing city with a current population just under 10,000. As the community continues to expand, the wastewater plant is growing as well and is looking for individuals interested in building a long-term career in an essential public service field. The City of Sunbury offers on-the-job training and a pathway to state certifications for candidates who are experienced or just getting started.

Apply online today to join a great team!

#ZR