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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Bartlett, TN

UTILITY WORKER - WATER/WASTEWATER

Bartlett, TN · On-site

$38K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Under immediate supervision, performs entry-level, heavy manual, and semi-skilled work to assist in ... Working knowledge of operating procedures for various light equipment. * Ability to read and ...

Lebanon

Waste Water Treatment Plant- Trainee Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$21.32/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Learn and assist in operating wastewater treatment processes and equipment. * Perform routine ... EXPERIENCE None or minimal experience required (entry level position) REQUIRED CERTIFICATION AND ...

DCC Propane, LLC

Terminal Operator

Lakewood, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is an entry-level position responsible for the daily operations of a Propane Terminal ... uses, and water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently ...

DCC Propane, LLC

Terminal Operator

Lakewood, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is an entry-level position responsible for the daily operations of a Propane Terminal ... uses, and water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently ...

DCC Propane, LLC

Terminal Operator

Old Hickory, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is an entry-level position responsible for the daily operations of a Propane Terminal ... uses, and water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently ...

DCC Propane, LLC

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is an entry-level position responsible for the daily operations of a Propane Terminal ... uses, and water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently ...

DCC Propane, LLC

Terminal Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is an entry-level position responsible for the daily operations of a Propane Terminal ... uses, and water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently ...

DCC Propane, LLC

Terminal Operator

Old Hickory, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position is an entry-level position responsible for the daily operations of a Propane Terminal ... uses, and water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently ...

Infrapipes

Extruder Operator

Greeneville, TN

$16 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level position with training provided. The role also includes maintaining a clean ... water, wastewater, and stormwater management applications. We provide full-service engineering ...

Infra Pipe Solutions Ltd.

Extruder Operator

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level position with training provided. The role also includes maintaining a clean ... water, wastewater, and stormwater management applications. We provide full-service engineering ...

Infrapipes

Extruder Operator

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This is an entry-level position with training provided. The role also includes maintaining a clean ... water, wastewater, and stormwater management applications. We provide full-service engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Water Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$15

$19

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Tennessee is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.21 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 the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Tennessee?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Tennessee 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 Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,971 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

UTILITY WORKER - WATER/WASTEWATER

Bartlett, TN

Bartlett, TN • On-site

$38K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

UTILITY WORKER
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
WATER/WASTEWATER DIVISION
UTILITY WORKER
STARTING AT $18.34 PER HOUR / $39,998 ANNUALLY
Join our team in this full-time role offering exceptional benefits, including comprehensive health and life insurance, a strong retirement plan, and competitive pay.
Under immediate supervision, performs entry-level, heavy manual, and semi-skilled work to assist in the construction, maintenance, and repair of city water distribution and wastewater collection systems.
Job Functions:
  • Performs a wide range of a manual duties associated with the installation and maintenance of city utilities including digging, backfilling, breaking pavement, mixing and pouring concrete, cutting pipe, and other plumbing-type repairs.
  • Uses various hand tools to dig, sweep, spread, level, and move materials such as concrete, gravel, sand, dirt, and asphalt.
  • Must be able to drive various light equipment such as pick-up trucks, one-ton single-axle dump trucks, and farm tractors.
  • Load and unload materials, supplies, tools, and equipment.
  • Cleans and maintains tools, equipment, materials, and work area.
  • Set up barricades and flag traffic around the work site.
  • Operates power equipment including tapping machines, pumps, sewer flush truck, power saw, chain saw, air hammer, and soil tampers.
  • Operates backpack chemical sprayer to spray manholes, ditches, and roadside areas with chemicals to control insects and weeds.
  • Flushes fire hydrants, performs simple repairs, and installs adjusts, and repairs water meters.
  • Inspect manholes to detect excessive gas odors and/or stoppage.
  • Assist with setting forms around the area to be repaired, pouring concrete, and finishing surfaces of poured concrete for various maintenance projects.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the Crew Leader/ Foreman, Field Supervisor, Manager, Director, or Assistant Director of Public Works. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Working knowledge of operating procedures for various light equipment.
  • Ability to read and understand operation manuals and chemical application instructions.
  • Knowledge of standard safety practices.
  • Skill in using basic utilities construction and repair techniques, tools, and equipment.
  • Ability to follow oral/written instructions.
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers.
  • Ability to drive standard shift vehicles.
  • Physical ability to perform essential job duties.

Education:
  • High School Diploma or GED. The ability to read and write sentences with common vocabulary.
  • Have three or six months experience performing heavy manual labor in construction, maintenance, or repair activities.

Requirements:
  • Must possess a valid Class D driver's license and to remain valid as a condition of continued employment.
  • Must pass a background screen, driver's license verification and physical exam, including a drug test.

Working Conditions:
  • Work outside exposed to extreme temperatures and inclement weather.
  • Subject to hazards of construction work including operating equipment and working around traffic.
  • Subject to excessive noise from equipment.
  • Occasionally exposed to dampness, dust, and unsanitary conditions.
  • Subject to handling and breathing irritating substances.
  • Subject to heavy lifting, as much as 50lbs. a distance of four feet from the ground and on occasion up to 100 lbs.
  • Subject to extensive standing, walking, and stooping.
  • Frequently requires kneeling, balancing, reaching, handling, and feeling.
  • Requires climbing, crouching, kneeling, bending, and crawling a distance of 300 feet.
  • Require working in confined spaces.
  • On occasion will be required to work long hours in emergencies such as system failures, or inclement weather.
  • Must wear all safety equipment following safety regulations.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. We participate in E-Verify.
We appreciate your interest in joining our team. Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to respond to every inquiry. Only candidates selected for testing or interviews will be contacted. Please note: A new application is required for each career opportunity you apply for. In accordance with Tennessee's Open Records Law, all submitted applications and resumes are subject to public disclosure.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2025
www.cityofbartlett.org
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
08/13/2025
Location : WTRMAINT-WTRPLANT-WTRWASTE
Job Class : UTILITY WORKER-WATER MAINT
Posting End : 08/31/2026
ANNUAL SALARY: $38,157.00-$38,157.00

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