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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City of Elmhurst

Utility Operator I or II

Elmhurst, IL

$30.35 - $46.27/hr

Depending on experience, the position ranges from entry-level to skilled, with responsibilities ... Potable Water System Operations * Performs and assists in routine operations and maintenance of ...

New

City of Elmhurst, IL

Utility Operator I or II

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$30.35 - $46.27/hr

Depending on experience, the position ranges from entry-level to skilled, with responsibilities ... Potable Water System Operations * Performs and assists in routine operations and maintenance of ...

New

Oak Park

Water & Sewer Worker I

Oak Park, IL · On-site

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is an entry level class within the Water & Sewer Worker series ... Operating assigned equipment . Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed ...

Xylem

Assembler - Manufacturing

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$22.20 - $24.70/hr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Previous experience in assembly, production or mechanical work preferred, but entry level ...

Xylem

Assembler

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$22.20 - $24.70/hr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Previous experience in assembly, production or mechanical work preferred, but entry level ...

Xylem

Assembler

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$22.20 - $24.70/hr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Previous experience in assembly, production or mechanical work preferred, but entry level ...

Xylem

Assembler

Morton Grove, IL

$27.75 - $30.88/hr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Previous experience in assembly, production or mechanical work preferred, but entry level ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Water Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$17

$22

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Chicago, IL is $17.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.57 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,422 per year, or $18 per hour.

Utility Operator I or II

City of Elmhurst

Elmhurst, IL

$30.35 - $46.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

City of Elmhurst
Employment Opportunity
Utility Operator I or II
Position Summary
This role supports the operation and maintenance of the City of Elmhurst water production and wastewater systems. Depending on experience, the position ranges from entry-level to skilled, with responsibilities that include the safe and efficient operation of departmental systems, adherence to safety procedures, and the ability to respond to emergency situations. Entry-level employees (Operator II) work under close supervision, while skilled workers (Operator I) perform duties with minimal supervision.
Essential Functions
WRF Operations
  • Performs and assists with daily operations and maintenance of WRF.
  • Collects and analyzes process labs and, with advanced skills, performs operational adjustments as needed.
  • Collects and analyzes NPDES samples and, with advanced skills, administers operational adjustments based on test data.
Potable Water System Operations
  • Performs and assists in routine operations and maintenance of potable water facilities.
  • Collects and performs all needed compliance sampling.
Sanitary Lift Station and Stormwater Operations
  • Performs and assists in all routine operations and maintenance of stormwater assets.
  • Performs and assists in all routine operations and maintenance of sanitary lift stations.
General
  • On call within 12 months of hire if new employee; if an internal employee is promoted, ability to respond will start when promoted.
  • Monitors operation of potable water systems, sanitary lift stations, and stormwater pumping systems; notifies personnel and responds appropriately in the case of abnormal operating conditions or breakdowns.
  • Required equal participation in after-hours rotation of on-call laptop within 12 months.
  • Must demonstrate ability to operate asset management system within 12 months of hire. If internal employee is promoted, this skill must already be obtained.
  • Operates equipment used in the water and wastewater division, including motors, pumps, bar screens, clarifiers, aerators, valves, blowers, chlorinators, grinders and other related equipment.
  • Inspects, adjusts and monitors equipment and performs necessary adjustments with proper direction.
  • Troubleshoots and reports equipment malfunctions and breakdowns; Operator I performs necessary repairs based on findings identified.
  • Performs equipment maintenance, such as lubricating pumps, replacing pump shafts, bearings, oil and grease seals, packing and chain drives.
  • Performs routine cleanliness, safety, and upkeep both at the WRF and at outside stations and assets.
  • Reports non-routine maintenance needs, process control problems, supply needs and unusual instrument readings to management.
  • While on duty, stays in active phone communication and responds to emergency operations.
  • Required participation in Public Works snow plowing operations as assigned.
  • Promotes and maintains responsive community relations.
  • Promotes teamwork and maintains positive working relationships.
  • Performs related duties and manual labor as assigned.
  • Operator I must work as a team to mentor and train other employees as assigned.
  • Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this role.
Qualifications
  • Operator I: Must possess a high school diploma or a general education development (GED) certificate. New employees must have a minimum of five years of experience and/or training in the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater systems; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
  • Operator II: Must possess a high school diploma or general education degree (GED); AND new employees must have minimum of 1 year of experience and/or training in the operation and maintenance of equipment used within water and wastewater systems; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by Human Resources.
Operator I amp; II:
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to obtain an Illinois CDL Class “A” license (with air brakes) within 12 months of employment if new employee. Must maintain driver’s license with CDL class endorsements while employed.
Operator I – in addition:
  • Must Possess a minimum IEPA Class C Public Water Supply Operator’s License, or minimum IEPA Class 2 Wastewater Operator’s License.
Required Knowledge and Skills
  • Knowledge and understanding of the operational and safety procedures as outlined in associated regulations, standard operating procedures and practices found in department manuals.
  • Knowledge and understanding of machines, equipment and operating practices, as well as the occupational hazards and necessary safety precautions in the water and wastewater fields.
  • Knowledge of utilizing tablets to identify and troubleshoot issues within water, wastewater, and storm systems.
  • Correct business English, including speech, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent.
  • Ability to interpret and make needed adjustments from charts, gauges, and instrument readings.
  • Must practice all safety policies at any time.
  • Adapts quickly to evolving technology, embracing new tools, systems, and processes to improve efficiency and support organizational needs.
  • In addition, Operator I: Ability to calculate water and wastewater formulas to properly operate a wastewater plant (F/M, MCRT, HP, ETC).
Salary and Benefits
Salary Range: Operator I: $35.57-$46.27 per hour / Operator II: $30.35-$39.46 per hour, DOQ. FLSA Status: Non-Exempt. Benefits: Includes union Local 150 health insurance benefits, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).
Interested, qualified candidates are asked to submit a completed application and resume online at https://elmhurst.org/jobs. Offers of employment are subject to successful completion of background check, drug screen, and physical. Applications will be accepted through September 10, 2026.
The City of Elmhurst is an equal opportunity employer.

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