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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

City of Leander, TX

Vac- Equipment Operator

Leander, TX · On-site

$20.67/hr

Water Maintenance Opening Date: 02/26/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Performs entry level support ... Equipment Operator I will also be responsible for the care and maintenance of vac-trucks. Employees ...

City of Leander

Vac- Equipment Operator

Leander, TX · On-site

$20.67/hr

Performs entry level support work. Work involves completing a variety of tasks under the direction ... Repairs water and wastewater mains; cleans and prepares pipes for repairs; installs repair parts ...

VVater

Executive Assistant

Austin, TX

VVater is America's Next Water Company, delivering the future of purification through its award ... A Chief of Staff role (that is, a separate, strategic operating seat) A strategy or decision-making ...

VVater

Executive Assistant

Austin, TX · On-site

VVater is America's Next Water Company, delivering the future of purification through its award ... native operator who uses modern tools to work faster and smarter • A seat with real growth ...

VVater

Executive Assistant

Austin, TX · On-site

VVater is America's Next Water Company, delivering the future of purification through its award ... A Chief of Staff role (that is, a separate, strategic operating seat) A strategy or decision-making ...

Envolve

Maintenance Technician

San Marcos, TX · On-site

Maintains and improves operating condition, quality, and integrity of all building systems and ... Assists in training Groundskeepers and entry level Maintenance Technicians. * Troubleshoots all ...

White Lodging

Dishwasher/Kitchen Steward

Austin, TX

$14.25 - $17.75/hr

If you're looking for an entry-level kitchen job, a dishwasher job with real benefits, or a foot in ... Keep floors and work surfaces free of trash, water, and debris to maintain a safe back-of-house ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator Jobs in Austin, TX

Entry Level Water Operator information

See Austin, TX salary details

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Austin, TX is $17.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Austin, TX? For Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Austin, TX are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs? Cities near Austin, TX 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 Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,007 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Vac- Equipment Operator

City of Leander, TX

Leander, TX • On-site

$20.67/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Salary: $20.67 Hourly
Location : Public Works 607 Municipal Dr, Leander, TX
Job Type: Full time
Job Number: 2501747
Department: Public Works Water & Wastewater Maintenance
Division: Water Maintenance
Opening Date: 02/26/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Performs entry level support work. Work involves completing a variety of tasks under the direction of the Vac-Truck Crew leader, including construction, maintenance and repair of city water and wastewater infrastructure, and water/wastewater line potholing. Equipment Operator I will also be responsible for the care and maintenance of vac-trucks. Employees must be able to be scheduled for on-call rotation. Works under close supervision, with minimal latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Essential Duties & Required Qualifications
  • Work schedule is Monday - Thursday, 6:30 am to 4:00 pm and Friday, 6:30 am to 10:30 am. Work schedule is subject to change.
  • Completes hydro excavation projects including utility line exposure, debris removal, trenching, and digging as needed for specific jobs.
  • Operates hydrovac trucks and equipment safely.
  • Performs pre- and post-trip inspections, as well as routine maintenance.
  • Repairs water and wastewater mains; cleans and prepares pipes for repairs; installs repair parts and evaluates effectiveness of repair.
  • Engages in various hydrovac-related tasks such as tank entry, cleaning, equipment mobilization, routine truck maintenance, and active participation in safety meetings.
  • Assists in excavation; operates air hammer to break rock and asphalt; uses pick and shovel to remove dirt and rock from hole, uses probe to locate pipe.
  • Cleans wastewater lines; uses hand and/or machine rods to unclog or clean main.
  • Installs fire hydrants, valves, manholes and clean outs.
  • As an essential employee, you are subject to after-hours call outs for emergency situations which can include icy weather, flooding, police department assistance, etc., including a required on-call rotation, and special events.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Required Education and Experience
  • High school graduate or its equivalent.

Required Certificate and Licenses
  • Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL), Texas Class A license with an air brake endorsement
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Minimum of six months or more years of work experience in construction, maintenance and repair of city streets, sidewalks, public rights-of-way, storm water detention ponds and drainage systems or related work experience or technical training.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Knowledge and ability to set up secure work zones using cones and barricades.
  • Skills and ability to operate a vac-truck, dump truck/water truck, bucket lift truck, VAC trailer, Jet machine, motor grader, backhoe, skid loader, roller, grader, gradall, and small hand tools, chainsaw, shovel, two-way radio, cell phone, measuring devices, excavator.
  • Knowledge of duties performed in construction and maintenance of water and wastewater infrastructure with all its hazards, and safety precautions common to equipment operations.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instruction.
  • Ability to work safely.
  • Must be able to wear the city provided uniform and city issued personal protective equipment - Steel-toed leather boots, gloves, eye protection, head protection, safety vest, and ear protection.
  • Workers must be in compliance with safety procedures and the use of safety equipment.
  • Ability to work hours other than the regular daytime schedule such as shift work, on call, or emergency response situations (i.e., early mornings, afternoons, evenings, late-nights shifts, weekends).
  • Ability to report safety hazards, equipment problems and emergency situations.

Physical Demands & Additional Information
While performing the duties of this job, the employee works outdoors in extreme heat or cold temperature and during inclement weather; exposed to dust fumes and loud noises. Frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions.
The City of Leander (employer) must comply with Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse regulations when hiring and employing CDL drivers.
The City of Leander (employer) must comply with requirements for the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse, including registration, pre-employment queries, annual limited and/or full queries, reporting of violations and refusals, handling violations, record-keeping and retention, and how to handle non-compliant drivers.
Regulated employers must register on the FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse for legal compliance under 49 CFR part 382, § 382.711.
When a driver refuses to give consent for the full search, or there is a delay in obtaining their specific consent of 24 hours or more following the limited search, the employer must remove them from all safety-sensitive duties until specific consent is obtained.
Under § 382.701(d) and 49 CFR Part 382, § 382.703(c), an employer can't allow any driver to continue in their safety-sensitive role if they have a violation reported in the Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse until the employee completes an evaluation with an approved Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and all education and treatment the SAP recommends, is cleared for the return-to-duty process and submits a negative RTD test.
If an applicant refuses to provide specific consent for a full query of the FMCSA Clearinghouse, they will not be employed.
If a current employee refuses to provide consent, they will immediately removed them from their safety-sensitive role.
If the current CDL driver employee refuses to register in the Clearinghouse when a limited query returns a violation, the employer will likely terminate their employment because of their inability to perform the legally mandated full query.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position.
Job offer and continuation of employment with the City of Leander is contingent upon:
  • Proof of education, certification(s) and experience as listed on the employment application based on the job posting requirements.
  • Satisfactory results from a pre-employment criminal history background and driving record check.
  • to work in the United States without sponsorship. *
  • Compliance with the for male US citizens and immigrants, who are ages 18-25.

*The City of Leander participates in E-Verify! Information from each new employee's Form I-9 will be provided to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to confirm work authorization.
The City of Leander is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information in employment.
Applicants should communicate requests for disability-related accommodations during the application process to our Human Resources Department at hr@leandertx.gov or 512-528-2708. Deaf and hard of hearing applicants may contact our office via Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or 1-800-735- 2989 (TTY/TDD).
For detailed information regarding our benefits package including our Benefits Guide, please visit this link:
01
Do you meet the following requirements for this position?
  • Yes, I have high school diploma and a Texas Commercial Driver License (CDL), Texas Class A license with an air brake endorsement.
  • No, I do not meet the qualifications for this position.

02
Do you meet the preferred requirement for the position?
  • Yes, I have six months or more years of work experience in construction, maintenance and repair of city streets, sidewalks, public rights-of-way, storm water detention ponds and drainage systems or related work experience or technical training.
  • No, I do not meet the preferred requirement for the position.

Required Question

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