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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Printer Op III

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

This is an entry level position into the force progression in the Printing Department. Associate ... water-based ink and cleaner) to waste staging area inside Press Department. • Maintains proper ...

Laborer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

This is an entry-level position for a dependable person who wants to assist in daily tasks and ... Maintaining and operating pneumatic and electrical tools, such as concrete vibrators, compactors ...

Laborer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

This is an entry-level position for a dependable person who wants to assist in daily tasks and ... Maintaining and operating pneumatic and electrical tools, such as concrete vibrators, compactors ...

Laborer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

This is an entry-level position for a dependable person who wants to assist in daily tasks and ... Maintaining and operating pneumatic and electrical tools, such as concrete vibrators, compactors ...

Laborer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$20/hr

This is an entry-level position for a dependable person who wants to assist in daily tasks and ... Maintaining and operating pneumatic and electrical tools, such as concrete vibrators, compactors ...

Laborer - Memphis Branch

Memphis, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

This entry-level role involves assisting skilled tradespeople with surface preparation, material ... from water intrusion. Job Responsibilities Assist with the installation of materials Prepare ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 7, 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:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 3% 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.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Performs repairs, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance of apartment equipment including appliances, electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC systems.

  • Inspects property systems, conducts maintenance-related inspections, and prepares the property for inspections by regulatory agencies.

  • Walks the grounds and interior areas daily to remove litter, debris, and snow, and performs other duties such as painting turnovers and inspecting vacant units.


Job description

The Hallmark Company is currently hiring for a dynamic Maintenance Technician that is responsible for performing repairs, troubleshooting, and performing preventative maintenance of all apartment equipment including appliances, elementary electrical systems, and plumbing. Maintains and improves operating condition, quality, and integrity of all building systems and building appearances. Must have own tools.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs repairs, troubleshoots systems, and completes preventative maintenance. Adheres to standardized diagnostic approaches for preventative maintenance, system troubleshooting,
  • Must possess the knowledge and have the tools to perform on-site basic repairs including HVAC systems, appliances, water heaters, facility electrical systems, plumbing systems, and any other special equipment on a property.
  • Required to be available for emergency maintenance calls 24 hours a day when scheduled.
  • Assists in training Groundskeepers and entry level Maintenance Technicians
  • Troubleshoots all property systems, and performs or oversees repairs
  • Conducts maintenance-related inspections, including building and alarm systems inspections. Assists in preparing property for inspections by regulatory agencies
  • Performs Preventive Maintenance to include winterizing facilities to prevent minimum freeze damage during cold weather, make periodic inspections of HVAC systems, winterize swimming pool equipment and systems, clean the swimming pool and maintain the proper chemical balance of the pool during the swimming season, and ensure all lights/HVAC are turned off in vacant units on a daily basis.
  • Inspects vacant units, ensuring turnovers are completed. Paints turnovers as needed
  • Inspects subcontracted service providers and documents work and product quality
  • Walks the grounds and common interior areas daily, removing litter and debris from lawns, planting beds, parking areas, sidewalks, ramps, and indoor spaces
  • Removes snow and ice from sidewalks, walkways, steps, and driveways
  • Attends and completes all required training
  • Completes repairs as directed
  • Must be capable of performing administrative duties including following proper procedures for recording maintenance requests and responding to them, use proper forms, and maintain inventory of parts.
  • Must be able to move heavy equipment safely, using proper equipment.
  • Perform other duties, as assigned.

Education and Work Experience Requirements

  • Two (2) years maintenance experience required or equivalent combination of education and work experience
  • HVAC and/or EPA certification preferred.
  • Previous multifamily experience preferred.
  • Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification preferred

Hallmark Management provided the following inclusive hiring information:

We are an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.

Benefits:

The Hallmark Company offers competitive pay, a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision and 401(k) and opportunities for career development and advancement.

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health savings account
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid sick time
  • Paid vacation time

Work Location: One location, In person

  • Job Type: Full-time

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday through Friday
  • On call
  • Occasional overtime
  • Weekends as needed

A clean background check is required for hire