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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Anne Arundel County, MD

Wastewater System Technician I

MD · On-site

$23.52 - $28.89/hr

This Wastewater Systems Technician I position is work at the entry level. This position is part of ... for operating and maintenance procedures of treatment plants and sewage pump stations or water ...

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Entry Level Water Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$19

$24

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Washington is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $21.49 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 Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Washington 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,144 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Water Reclamation Operator Trainee - Class 1

Prince William County Service Authority

Woodbridge, VA • On-site

$50K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary : $50,212.50 - $87,652.50 Annually
Location : H.L. Mooney WR Facility, 1851 Rippon Blvd, Woodbridge, VA 22191, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 01321
Department: Division of Environmental Services & Water Reclamation
Division: Water Reclamation Operations
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/3/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
Sign on Incentive is available to licensed candidates.
Candidates who possess a current Virginia Wastewater License from Class IV - Class I and have wastewater experience may be hired in above the entry level trainee in accordance with Prince William Water's Career Path Policy requirements. The candidate will be required to meet Prince William Water's specific requirements within a set period of time.
Hiring Range Min
Hiring Range Max
Trainee
$25.75
N/AClass 4 Wastewater License$25.75$33.79Class 3 Wastewater License
$28.32
$37.17
Class 2 Wastewater License
$31.16
$40.86
Class 1 Wastewater License
$34.28
$44.95
Candidates for this position will receive overtime each pay period when assigned to a shift and will also receive shift differential pay when working during the hours of 6:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Employees' work schedule will be one of the following:
A rotating day/night schedule
Seven days on/Seven days off
Seven nights on/Seven nights off
All shifts will work 14 days in a 28-day cycle
Position Summary:
Learns to perform technical work in the operation and maintenance of an advanced water reclamation facility. The work involves working with experienced wastewater treatment plant operators as part of a planned program to learn the duties and to acquire certifications. Employees may be assigned various projects for learning and developmental purposes and perform helper duties while serving as trainees. Workers follow specific instructions and procedures and refer nonstandard situations or problems to others. Demonstrates a commitment and supports a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.
Position Responsibilities / Essential Job Functions
  • Learns water reclamation facility operation to include:
    1. Ensuring proper operation and maintenance of plant machinery and equipment used in wastewater treatment; oils and adjusts machines; to determine if process changes are required and make adjustments; to calibrate meters in preparation to run tests on various samples; to start and stop plant machinery and pumps as required; to regulate valves and observe and record plant flows; to operate and maintain incinerator.
    2. Operating equipment such as blowers for air supply to activated sludge, influent and backwash pumps for filtration, UV for disinfecting, centrifuge for dewatering and incinerator for solids and scum disposal.
    3. Maintaining logs and to record all parameters related to plant operations; to record and manage the consumption of all chemicals used at the plant; to collect composite samples for process control and permit compliance; to perform testing on various samples in order to make lime feed change; to use computer graphics and trends to identify necessary plant changes and/or adjustments.
    4. Monitoring Solids Handling; to collect samples from holding tanks, gravity thickeners and cake pump; to obtain level readings from holding tanks and gravity thickeners; to run tests on holding tank samples; to check equipment settings; to open and close chain valves at scheduled times.
    5. Making routine checks throughout the plant; to record temperature and pressure readings to exercise and check position of valves; to check operation of pumps, and to haul sludge: visually inspect the facility.
    6. Monitoring SCADA system in order to stay within specific guidelines; to record equipment information from equipment; to identify problems; to connect and disconnect fuel oil line, water sprayers as required.
    7. Performing preventive maintenance; to steam clean hoses and equipment; to check oil and temperature; to clean filters, hose draft tubes; to pump standing water; and to perform other related maintenance duties for units.
  • Learns to coordinate the plant's maintenance requirements with superiors; to ensure that the plant is operated efficiently and at minimum reasonable cost; to ensure that all equipment and machinery is kept in good working condition.
  • Learns to collect and test samples; to collect data from field testing samples; to perform various tests on wastewater samples.
  • May be deemed essential at any time.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Essential Skills and Experience
Essential Competencies:
  • Knowledge of basic mechanical concepts and procedures; English usage, spelling and grammar.
  • Aptitude for the use of the tools, equipment and materials of the work.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; learn the water reclamation facility operations; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; work cooperatively with others.
Minimum Education and Work Experience:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Or a combination of education and experience as described above.
Required Licenses/Certifications and Other Special Requirements:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license consistent with Prince William Water policy requirements.
  • Required to work rotating shifts including days, nights, weekends and holidays.
  • Must obtain and maintain a Class 4 Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) Wastewater License within two years of employment in this position.
  • Must pass Prince William Water's skill level 3 written exam in each major work areas (liquids, dewatering and incineration) within two years of employment in this position.
  • Must pass Prince William Water's skill level 3 practical exam in each major work areas (liquids, dewatering and incineration) within two years of employment in this position.
Minimum Lead/Supervisory or Management Experience:
  • None

Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands of this position are available upon request. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The qualifications listed above are intended to represent the minimum skills and experience levels associated with performing the duties and responsibilities contained in this job description. The qualifications do not express absolute employment or promotional standards. They are general guidelines that should be considered along with the job-related selection or promotional criteria.
You can learn about our comprehensive benefits package for regular full-time employees by clicking
01
Do you have a current Virginia Wastewater Class license?
  • Yes
  • No

02
If you have a current Virginia Wastewater Class license, please list the class license you currently hold and the expiration date.
03
This position requires working various shifts, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Are you able to meet this job requirement?
  • Yes
  • No

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