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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Kleinfelder Inc

Water Treatment Mechanic

Mcclure, OH · On-site

$31.86/hr

Provide guidance and training to entry-level technicians and staff professionals as needed ... Water Operator. Following an offer, candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Water Treatment Mechanic

Mcclure, OH · On-site

$31.86/hr

Provide guidance and training to entry-level technicians and staff professionals as needed ... Water Operator. Following an offer, candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete ...

Veolia

O&M Technician I

Dayton, OH

$20 - $27.25/hr

... operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It ... O&M Tech I - This is an entry-level position in the water distribution and wastewater collection ...

nLogic

Junior Computer Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

In this entry-level role, you will be the primary eyes and ears of the facility, ensuring the ... Monitor critical data center environmental controls, including chilled water-cooling systems, power ...

Pentair

Manufacturing Operator, 1st Shift

Ashland, OH · On-site

$22.36/hr

From our residential water filtration to industrial water management to pool products and more, our ... entry level duties. You will not have a set duty and could work in any area. * Use hand tools ...

Pentair

Manufacturing Operator, 1st Shift

Ashland, OH

$22.36/hr

From our residential water filtration to industrial water management to pool products and more, our ... entry level duties. You will not have a set duty and could work in any area. * Use hand tools ...

Pentair

Manufacturing Operator, 1st Shift

Ashland, OH

$22.36/hr

From our residential water filtration to industrial water management to pool products and more, our ... entry level duties. You will not have a set duty and could work in any area. * Use hand tools ...

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization. GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization. GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, OH · On-site

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization. GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate ...

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Columbus, OH

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization. GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate ...

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Entry Level Water Operator information

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

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Ohio is $16.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Ohio?

For Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs?

Cities in Ohio 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 Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,536 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

O&M Technician I - Water Treatment Plant

Dayton, OH • On-site

Veolia Environnement SA
See more jobs at Veolia Environnement SAexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.

Job Description

Position Purpose: 

O&M Tech I - This is an entry-level position in the water distribution and wastewater collection service technician classification series.

Initially under close supervision, candidates with basic maintenance experience learns water distribution and wastewater collection system infrastructure, use of tools and equipment. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with greater independence.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Perform customer service duties such as turn-ons and shut-offs and checking for leaks or dead meters; report water use violations; assist customers in resolving water volume, leak, quality, and pressure problems; take water samples.
  • Perform a variety of semi-skilled work to locate, inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair meters, valves, pipes, and related appurtenances; flushes water distribution and cleans wastewater collection systems and exercises valves.
  • Assist and inspect repair work associated with repairs of water mains and wastewater collection systems and related appurtenances.
  • Respond to customer complaints and emergency calls for service; use inspection equipment to investigate and identify causes; and assist in mitigating spills, leaks, and damage, as required.
  • Operate and maintain specialized vehicles and a variety of light, medium, and heavy equipment and hand and power tools related to the maintenance and repair of water distribution and wastewater collection and related equipment.
  • Observe safe work methods and makes appropriate use of related safety equipment as required.
  • Respond to after-hours emergencies and assist other maintenance crews as needed in emergency or relief situations.
  • Attend training and safety meetings as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

  • High School Diploma/GED is required.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

  • The operation and maintenance of a variety of hand and power tools, vehicles, and light to heavy power equipment. Trackhoe/Backhoe operator a plus.
  • Basic Mathematics.
  • Basic computer software related to work.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

  • Valid driver's license, CDL is a plus.
Additional Information

Benefits: Veolia's comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering and more. In addition, employees are also entitled to participate in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

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