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Entry Level Wastewater Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Operator

Bridgeport, WV

$22 - $30.50/hr

Wastewater entry level licensing or certification Working Conditions * Typical working conditions include a wastewater treatment plant and outdoors * Exposure to extreme weather conditions (extreme ...

Wastewater Technician

Whitehall, MI ยท On-site

$21 - $25.50/hr

Wastewater entry level licensing or certification * Proficiency with Microsoft Office or Google equivalent * Strong communication skills, both verbally and written * Ability to make process changes ...

Wastewater entry level licensing or certification Working Conditions * Typical working conditions include a wastewater treatment plant and outdoors * Exposure to extreme weather conditions (extreme ...

Wastewater Technician

Whitehall, MI ยท On-site

$21 - $25.50/hr

Wastewater entry level licensing or certification * Proficiency with Microsoft Office or Google equivalent * Strong communication skills, both verbally and written * Ability to make process changes ...

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Entry Level Wastewater information

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$15

$25

$38

How much do entry level wastewater jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wastewater in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in the wastewater industry, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in wastewater often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning how to operate specialized equipment, and understanding complex regulatory requirements. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but hands-on training and mentorship from experienced team members can make a big difference. Building strong communication skills and asking questions when uncertain help ensure tasks are completed safely and accurately. Over time, familiarity with routine processes and a proactive approach to learning will help new employees gain confidence and advance in their roles.

What are entry level wastewater jobs?

Entry level wastewater jobs typically involve assisting with the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of wastewater treatment facilities. Employees in these roles may collect samples, perform basic testing, operate equipment, and support experienced technicians or operators. These positions are designed for individuals who are new to the field and often provide on-the-job training, making them an excellent starting point for a career in environmental services or water management.

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

AspectEntry Level WastewaterWastewater Treatment Operator
CertificationsBasic wastewater certifications, often requiredAdvanced certifications, such as State Operator License
Work EnvironmentEntry-level plants or fieldwork, supervisedFull operational plants, more responsibility
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with routine tasks, monitoring equipmentManaging treatment processes, troubleshooting

Entry Level Wastewater roles typically involve assisting with routine tasks and require basic certifications, making them suitable for newcomers. Wastewater Treatment Operators have more responsibilities, advanced certifications, and oversee entire treatment processes. The entry-level position often serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed operator.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Wastewater Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Wastewater Technician, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math and science knowledge, and the ability to follow safety and environmental regulations. Familiarity with water testing equipment, pumps, and computerized monitoring systems is often required, and some employers may prefer a state-issued wastewater operator certification. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork skills help you excel in this role. These capabilities ensure safe, efficient wastewater treatment operations and compliance with environmental standards.
More about Entry Level Wastewater jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Wastewater jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Wastewater job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater jobs? The most popular types of Wastewater jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Wastewater jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Wastewater jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Wastewater job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 18% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,624 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Design Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Design Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Bolton & Menk, Inc.

Ames, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Bolton & Menk has an exciting opportunity for a Design Engineer, EIT, to join our Water/Wastewater team in our Ames office. As a Top Workplace, this is a fantastic chance to work with a talented team of professionals and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. With over 75 years of experience, Bolton & Menk specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions across the Midwest, Southeast, and beyond.
In this entry level civil engineering role, we are looking to add an EIT who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities! The majority of your time will be spent assisting project managers and project engineers in design and construction phase activities on Water/Wastewater projects. This position is open to December 2025 or May 2026 graduates or an experienced EIT with 1-3 years of experience.
What You Will Be Doing:
  • Assist Project Engineers with design and construction phase activities on municipal projects
  • Perform basic design computations, preliminary layout and design, research and prepare rough drafts of preliminary reports and feasibility studies
  • Assist with project plans and specifications, preparing cost and quantity take-off estimates
  • Construction observation activities may include performing construction staking, performing construction administration duties such as documenting activities, measuring and testing, providing general oversight, and interacting with contractors, sub-contractors, residents and City staff.

What We Are Looking For:
  • Master of Science or Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering from an ABET accredited post-secondary institution with an emphasis on water and/or wastewater treatment.
  • Certified Engineer-in-Training or able to obtain within 12 months of hire
  • Experience with water or wastewater treatment
  • Working knowledge and skills in CAD and design software. (i.e. AutoCAD Civil3D, REVIT)
  • Possess a valid drivers license as travel to various facilities and job sites may be required

Bolton & Menk will currently not be providing visa sponsorship or Optional Practical Training Extensions for STEM Students. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the US at the start of employment without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.
WHY BOLTON & MENK?Bolton & Menk, Inc. specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions. Since 1949, we have been committed to improving quality of life through engineering excellence and client satisfaction. From advocating for our communities to designing their dreams to finding funding; we take pride in our work because we live in these same communities. Today, Bolton & Menk has more than 1,000 employees throughout more than 40 locations in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Colorado, North Carolina and South Carolina providing services to more than 400 communities and agencies. Learn more about our history here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/about-us/
OUR BENEFITSAt Bolton & Menk, we value our people and provide an exceptional Total Compensation and Benefits Package to protect our most valuable asset. We are committed to the well-being of our employees and their families. Perks of being a Bolton & Menk employee include peace of mind with our benefits package and competitive compensation plan, flexible schedules, and career development opportunities. Learn more here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/careers
We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Bolton & Menk does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party agencies in response to Bolton & Menk job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team.
It is our responsibility and privilege to embrace the diversity of people, thoughts, and experiences necessary to develop infrastructure systems that serve all people. Bolton & Menk, Inc., is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer including disability and vets.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.