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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Vanderbilt Health

Plumber Journeyman

Nashville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Located in Nashville, Tennessee, and operating at a global crossroads of teaching, discovery, and ... Domestic water system to include but not limited to backflow preventers, domestic water pumps ...

Vanderbilt Health

Plumber Journeyman

Nashville, TN

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Located in Nashville, Tennessee, and operating at a global crossroads of teaching, discovery, and ... Domestic water system to include but not limited to backflow preventers, domestic water pumps ...

Rogers Group

Environmental Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... company operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. RGI, established in 1908, has the ... This entry-level position is ideal for a recent college graduate with a Civil Engineering degree ...

Rogers Group

Environmental Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... company operating in 13 states with over 3,500 employees. RGI, established in 1908, has the ... This entry-level position is ideal for a recent college graduate with a Civil Engineering degree ...

ServiceMaster

Entry Level Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Performs water/fire/smoke damage and mold remediation repair as directed by supervisor to include ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

ServiceMaster

Entry Level Technician

Collierville, TN · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

  • PTO

Performs water/fire/smoke damage and mold remediation repair as directed by supervisor to include ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

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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.

Jr. Batch Operator - Mayo Platform - A Shift

Newly Weds Foods - Dyersburg, TN

Dyersburg, TN • On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Department: Factory                           Profession: Manufacturing Mustard & Condiments

 

Reports to: Operations Supervisor      Substitute: Machine Operator    Hourly/Salary: Hourly

 

Primary Job Function

This position functions in a team-based environment. The position efficiently operates assigned equipment to produce products at prescribed standards, minimizing material waste and production loss.  The position will maintain KPIs, including OEE and Quality Standards The position oversees all aspects of line functions.

 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Responsible for performing all job functions in a safe manner by complying to all plant safety policies and practices including wearing proper PPE.
  • Able to work and promote a team-based environment.
  • Setting up the production line and conversion after CIP cleaning.
  • Responsible for CIP/COP according to the cleaning plan and hygiene regulations. Responsible for maintaining a sanitary work environment by checking the cleaning results through swab testing and rinse water samples.
  • Maintain a clean work environment on the outside of the machine as well as the working environment of the machine. Keep areas clean, organized and dry.
  • Gather all necessary ingredients and raw materials, clean and sanitize Production area, and check the recipe in the program memory confirming the specifications.
  • Mix batches according to the recipe specification and work instructions.
  • Deliver samples to the laboratory.
  • Transfer laboratory approved batches to tanks.
  • Responsible for the creation and all documentation associated with production, quality, safety including the creation and updating of production documentation, Standard Operating Procedures and Work Instructions.
  • Detect and correct any faults or deviations during the mixing process; monitor equipment for abnormalities, solve minor problems without assistance and eliminate potential threats to production.
  • Eliminate technical deficiencies and communicate effectively with maintenance personnel regarding recurring problems and needs for repair. 
  • Comply with all GMP and quality procedures.
  • Follow established performance and product specifications such as product weight, product size, machine output, labeling, code dates, product quality etc. 
  • Function as needed in various capacities, including moving supplies and discard, filling in for other teammates as necessary and other duties as assigned.
  • Promoting and maintaining a safety oriented and team-based culture.
  •  Has knowledge and understands OSHA, HACCP, SQF, ISO and Safety requirements within a food manufacturing environment.
  • Responsible to report food safety and quality concerns to Supervision, Quality or Senior Management. Support the SQF system through adherence to plant policies and procedures.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Qualification Requirements

  • Basic understanding and ability to use computers. 
  • Basic mathematical aptitude.
  • Ability to understand mechanical concepts.
  • Must be able to lift to 50 pounds
  • Must be physically able to climb on ladders and portable stairways
  • Constant standing and/or walking on concrete floors are required.
  • Must be able to use body members to work, move, lift, slide, push or carry heavy objects or materials.

 

Education and Experience

  • A High School Diploma or general education degree (GED) is required.
  • Two years manufacturing, mechanical or technical experience is preferred.
  • 2 years of experience working in a Manufacturing Environment preferred in a food environment.
  • Applicant must be a committed team worker with a keen sense of responsibility and excellent attention to detail.

 

Direct Reports: None

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