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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Oak Park

Water & Sewer Worker I

Oak Park, IL

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is an entry level class within the Water & Sewer Worker series ... Operating assigned equipment . Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed ...

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AVS Bio Poultry House Operator

Roanoke, IL · On-site

$22/hr

... entry-level, healthcare, or service-industry backgrounds! Location: Washburn, IL (No Relocation ... Responsibilities include monitoring feed, water, equipment, and house conditions; collecting and ...

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Entry Level Water Operator information

See Illinois salary details

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How much do entry level water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Illinois is $16.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level water operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, knowledge of water treatment processes, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, water testing equipment, and safety protocols is often necessary. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and good communication skills help operators respond effectively to system issues and maintain compliance. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safe, reliable water treatment and distribution for public health and regulatory standards.

What does an entry level water operator do?

An Entry Level Water Operator is responsible for assisting in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants and distribution systems. Their duties include monitoring equipment, collecting water samples for testing, recording data, and ensuring water safety standards are met. They work under the supervision of licensed operators and help troubleshoot minor issues with machinery or processes. This role is essential for providing safe, clean drinking water to communities and often requires working shifts, including nights and weekends.

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

Entry level water operators often encounter challenges such as learning to monitor complex systems, maintaining regulatory compliance, and responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions. Adapting to shift work and being vigilant about safety protocols are also key aspects. These challenges can be addressed through thorough on-the-job training, active mentorship from experienced operators, and continuous learning about new technologies and regulations. Building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with team members help ensure smooth operations and readiness to handle any issues that arise.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Water OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsBasic water operator certification, often requiredAdvanced certifications, including state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in water treatment facilities, fieldworkMore experienced roles managing plant operations
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitoring equipment, basic maintenance, data recordingOperating complex systems, troubleshooting, plant management

Entry Level Water Operators typically hold basic certifications and perform foundational tasks in water treatment facilities. Water Treatment Plant Operators usually require advanced certifications and oversee more complex operations. Both roles are essential in water industry operations, but the Water Treatment Plant Operator position involves greater responsibility and expertise.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Water Operator job openings:
Entry Level Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,201 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Water & Sewer Worker I

Village of Oak Park Illinois

Oak Park, IL • On-site

$33.48 - $37.21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
Union: SEIU Water & Sewer
Local: 73
FLSA: Non-exempt
Hours: 40.0 per week
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Under general supervision, perform a wide variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks in the construction, repair, cleaning and maintenance of Village water and sewer systems, metering equipment, traffic control devices and all related facilities. Employees in this class are subject to 24-hour call outs.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is an entry level class within the Water & Sewer Worker series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Water & Sewer Worker II by the performance of more routine duties. Employees must be able to operate all heavy equipment. Employees at this level receive instructions or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are expected to exercise proper judgement in selecting work methods and in planning details of the work tasks. Experienced employees at this level may perform as a Lead Worker on designated work assignments.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES - Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Essential duties and responsibilities
Safety
  1. Utilize proper safety work practices related to all work performed, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), shoring, confined spaces and other safety related equipment and procedures; direct and control traffic around work sites utilizing proper work zone traffic control per IDOT

Equipment and Operations
  1. Ability to operate construction and maintenance equipment such as dump trucks, front end loader, backhoe, skid steer, vactor, sewer jetter,

  1. Ability to operate jack-hammers, concrete saws, sewer rodder, sewer tv equipment; maintain hand tools and assigned equipment; identify equipment needs for each assigned

  1. Ability to perform snow removal and ice control duties as

Customer Service
  1. Respond to public inquiries in a courteous manner; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely

Sewer System Maintenance
  1. Work as part of a sewer maintenance crew; inspect and clear obstructions from storm drains, sewer lines; make sewer line connections; flush and televise

Water System Maintenance
  1. Perform the installation and maintenance of pipe laying and pipeline repairs, repair of water mains, water services, fire hydrants and valves; flush main water line and hydrants as

  1. Ability to exercise, inspect and locate difficulties on valves throughout the water distribution

  1. Ability to make service connections; tap main lines and boring for service installation; replace customer service lines in accordance with State Plumbing Codes, Illinois EPA Regulations and the Standard Specifications for Water & Sewer Construction in Illinois.

  1. Ability to inspect, diagnose, repair and locate mechanical difficulties on a variety of mechanical equipment including water meters, remote meter reading systems.

Locating and Recordkeeping
  1. Ability to locate and mark underground

  1. Accurately measure and record location of new underground facilities (water/sewer lines) and meter

QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  1. Occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

  1. Methods and techniques general construction, maintenance and repair related to the area of work assigned.

  1. Operational characteristics of mechanical equipment and tools used in the area of work assigned.

Ability to:
  • Perform unskilled and semi-skilled maintenance, construction and repair work in the area of work assigned.

  • Operate a variety of vehicular and stationary mechanical equipment in a safe and effective manner.

  • Perform a variety of manual tasks for extended periods of time and in unfavorable weather conditions.

  • Perform heavy manual labor.

  • Work independently in the absence of supervision.

  • Understand and follow oral and written instructions.

  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

  • Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance.

  • Establish and maintain interpersonal skills in the workplace to effectively communicate and interact with others.

Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include the following:
  • Walking or standing for extended periods of time
  • Operating assigned equipment.

Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for:
  • Making observations
  • Communicating with others
  • Operating assigned equipment and vehicles.

Diversity Equity & Inclusion Statement
The Village of Oak Park commits itself to diversity, equity and inclusion by recognizing that creating a mutually respectful, multicultural and equitable environment does not happen on its own, it must be intentional. This includes providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, military or veteran status or any other characteristics
Requirements
Experience and Training Guidelines
Experience: One year of general construction maintenance experience performing field maintenance work within the area of responsibility. AND
Training: High School diploma or equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.
License or Certificate: Possession of or ability to obtain appropriate, valid B CDL drivers license, with air brake endorsement within the first six months of employment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Travel from site to site; some exposure to dust and noise; exposure to hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy conditions, caused by the weather, some heavy lifting, standing, climbing; may work at heights.

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