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

Xylem

Assembler - Hiring Now

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 - 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

$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 ...

Xylem

Assembler

Morton Grove, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Goldfish Swim School

Swim Instructor

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Must be willing to work in the water for 3-4 hours on some shifts * Must be able to work 1 weekend ... Each Goldfish Swim School is an independently owned and operated franchise. The respective ...

Merieux NutriSciences

Laboratory Assistant

Crete, IL · On-site

$16.50/hr

... water baths etc. using cleaning solvents. • Maintain clean laboratory by properly storing ... YOUR PROFILE Qualifications Required • High school diploma or GED. Entry-level position. This ...

Bosch Group

Manifold Assembler I

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

... Entry level position responsible for assembling and final processing of manifolds Duties and ... operated gauges by hand Must be able to meet quality and productivity standards Must be able to ...

Bosch Group

Manifold Assembler I

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

... Entry level position responsible for assembling and final processing of manifolds Duties and ... operated gauges by hand Must be able to meet quality and productivity standards Must be able to ...

Bosch Group

Manifold Assembler I

Vernon Hills, IL

$18.25 - $20.25/hr

... Entry level position responsible for assembling and final processing of manifolds Duties and ... operated gauges by hand Must be able to meet quality and productivity standards Must be able to ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 8, 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 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 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 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,422 per year, or $18 per hour.

Assembler - Hiring Now

Xylem

Morton Grove, IL • On-site

$22.20 - $24.70/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Xylem rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 537 rated manufacturers

Job description

Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the world's most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team, dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Depending on assigned area of specialty, responsibilities may include:
  • ASSEMBLY & SUB-ASSEMBLY
    • Assemble pumps, motors, valves, and other components following blueprints, work instructions, and process sheets.
    • Fit, fasten, and secure parts using hand tools, power tools or light machinery.
    • Perform assembly of sub-components and pre-built units used in final production.
    • Verify correct parts, dimensions, and alignments during build process
  • PRODUCT TESTING & VERIFICATION
    • Conduct basic functional or leak testing of assembled products as required.
    • Use gauges, pressure testers, or other measuring tools to confirm product meets quality standards.
    • Identify and report nonconforming materials or product issues to leadership.
  • EQUIPMENT & PROCESS OPERATION
    • Set up and operate simple production tools and machines (e.g. drill press, crimper, rivet press, labeling or nameplate equipment).
    • Perform basic preventive maintenance and ensure tools and workstations are in good working order.
  • MATERIAL HANDLING & PACKAGING
    • Retrieve, move, and stage materials, components, and finished goods using manual or powered equipment.
    • Prepare, pack, and label assembled products for stock or shipment as needed.
  • CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT & TEAMWRK
    • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
    • Support continuous improvement and 5S initiatives.
    • Collaborate with teammates to meet daily production goals and uphold quality standards.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions in English.
  • Technical training, trade school, or on-the-job manufacturing experience preferred.

Experience
  • Previous experience in assembly, production or mechanical work preferred, but entry level candidates are encouraged to apply.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand and power tools.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
  • Reliable, safe-conscious, and able to work well in a team setting.

Working Conditions
  • Work performed in manufacturing or warehouse environment with exposure to temperature extremes, noise, dust, and moving equipment.
  • Requires standing, walking, bending, and lifting to 50 lbs.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as directed.
  • Must be able to work various shifts or overtime as needed to support production

Wage Rate:
The starting wage for Production Assembler is 80% of the full wage rate, ranging from $22.20 to $24.70 per hour. In accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the wage increases to 90% (ranging from $24.98 to $27.79 per hour) after one year of service, reaching 100% of the full wage rate ($27.75 to $30.88 per hour) at year 3 of service. A shift differential of $1.20 per hour applies for 2nd and 3rd shifts.
Join the global Xylem team to be a part of innovative technology solutions transforming water usage, conservation, and re-use. Our products impact public utilities, industrial sectors, residential areas, and commercial buildings, with a commitment to providing smart metering, network technologies, and advanced analytics for water, electric, and gas utilities. Partner with us in creating a world where water challenges are met with ingenuity and dedication; where we recognize the power of inclusion and belonging in driving innovation and allowing us to compete more effectively around the world.
At Xylem, you'll not only contribute to solving water issues but also have the chance to make a difference through our paid Volunteer Program, Xylem Watermark. We prioritize our employees' well-being through inclusion and belonging as well as our Employee Resource Groups (ERG). Proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (including disability and veterans) and Affirmative Action workplace, Xylem fosters an inclusive environment free from discrimination or harassment.
Please note that the information in this job description outlines the general nature of the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Xylem is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to enable all employees to perform their essential job functions. We reserve the right to modify this job description and assign additional duties as needed. Embrace the opportunity to be part of Xylem's transformative journey in shaping the future of water technology! #XylemCareers #GlobalImpact #WaterInnovation

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