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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Lancaster, PA

Westrock

Production Worker - Stroudsburg Mill (P)

Gap, PA · On-site

$25.56/hr

... Water Gap paper mill, that produces coated paperboard from recycled products. These entry level positions involve doing general labor around the mill, including picking up paper, operating forklifts ...

Eurofins

Associate Data Review Scientist

Lancaster, PA · On-site

$57K - $57K/yr

From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins laboratories ... The Associate Scientist position is considered an entry-level opportunity that will allow for hands ...

All JobsWater Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator Jobs in Lancaster, PA

Entry Level Water Operator information

See Lancaster, PA salary details

$11

$16

$21

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Lancaster, PA is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.46 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 Lancaster, PA?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Lancaster, PA are:

What cities near Lancaster, PA are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs?

Cities near Lancaster, PA 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 Lancaster, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,304 per year, or $17 per hour.

Production Worker - Stroudsburg Mill (P)

Gap, PA • On-site

Westrock
See more jobs at Westrockexternal

$25.56/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

General Information
Posting Job Title
Production Worker
Locations
PA Delaware Water Gap
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
20-Aug-2026
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
Career Opportunity:
WestRock currently has entry-level production openings at our Delaware Water Gap paper mill, that produces coated paperboard from recycled products.
These entry level positions involve doing general labor around the mill, including picking up paper, operating forklifts, handling chemicals, cleaning, etc. Must be able to carry/lift 50 lbs. Candidates with previous experience operating fork trucks or other mobile equipment are preferred, but that experience is not necessary for consideration. We operate on a rotating shift, and membership in the Union is required after 60 days.
Shift: Southern Swing
  • Week 1:
    • Saturday through Friday on 1st shift 7am - 3pm. Off for 4 days.
  • Week 2:
    • Wednesday through Tuesday on 3rd shift 11pm - 7am. Off for 2 days.
  • Week 3:
    • Friday through Thursday on 2nd shift 3pm - 11pm. Off for 1 day.

Starting Pay: $25.56/hr.
How you will impact WestRock:
  • Ability to safely operate various manufacturing equipment, follow specific directions, operate power hand tools, and other duties as assigned.
  • Ability to read a tape measure (to 1/16" measurement) and basic math and computer skills.
  • Performs inspections on various equipment for proper operation and report questionable conditions.
  • Performs various housekeeping, cleaning, and organizing functions with minimal supervision to ensure areas are clean and free from debris.
  • Prioritizes work and takes appropriate action to ensure paper machine remains operational.
  • Forklift and skid steer experience is preferred
  • Roll finishing (banding, labeling, sorting)
  • Loading trucks with finished product
  • Unloading bales from wastepaper truck

What you need to succeed:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Strong commitment to working safe, good communication skills, a demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong desire to learn manufacturing processes and operating complex machinery and have a desire to advance within the company.
  • Industrial manufacturing experience is preferred.
  • Ability to work safely, comply with all safety rules, lift, push or pull >50lbs, navigate stairs, stand, walk, bend, and kneel throughout the entire shift.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

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