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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA

Go Coil II

Pump Operator - Coiled Tubing

Smithton, PA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... water, etc.). The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take ...

Go Coil II

Pump Operator - Coiled Tubing

Smithton, PA · On-site

$21 - $26/hr

Job Overview This is an entry level position that assists in providing coiled tubing ground support ... water, etc.). The Pump Operator assists in the rig-up, rig-down or swapping wells and may take ...

Don's Appliances

Install Delivery Associate

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Delivery/Installation Manager Position Summary Don's Appliances is seeking an entry- level, ... Deliver and install appliances at customer locations, including water, electrical, and gas ...

Don's Appliances

Install Delivery Associate

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Delivery/Installation Manager Position Summary Don's Appliances is seeking an entry- level, ... Deliver and install appliances at customer locations, including water, electrical, and gas ...

Don's Appliances

Install Delivery Associate

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

Delivery/Installation Manager Position Summary Don's Appliances is seeking an entry- level, ... Deliver and install appliances at customer locations, including water, electrical, and gas ...

Northeast Paving

CDL A Truck Driver

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

Perform daily safety checks of fluid levels on oil, water, fuel and inspections for leaks and ... Education and Experience This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires ...

IICRC

Property Damage Restoration Technician

Oakmont, PA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... by fire, flood, smoke, water and storms. We provide training from entry level to advanced ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

IICRC

Property Damage Restoration Technician

Oakmont, PA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

... by fire, flood, smoke, water and storms. We provide training from entry level to advanced ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

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

Entry Level Water Operator information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$11

$16

$21

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Pittsburgh, PA is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.41 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 Pittsburgh, PA?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA?

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

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

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

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

Cities near Pittsburgh, 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 Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,267 per year, or $17 per hour.

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Energy Innovation Center Institute

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

**PROGRAM IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION. PLEASE CONTINUE TO APPLY. CLASS WILL BE SCHEDULED BASED ON APPLICANT INTEREST. THANK YOU.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification Job DescriptionPosition Summary
The Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting water and wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant plant operations. This position supports the protection of public health and the environment by maintaining treatment processes, performing routine testing, documenting operational data, and responding to equipment or process issues in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operate and monitor water and wastewater treatment plant equipment, including pumps, motors, valves, filters, clarifiers, aerators, blowers, chemical feed systems, disinfection equipment, and related control systems.
  • Monitor plant processes using gauges, meters, laboratory results, visual inspections, SCADA systems, and other operating data.
  • Collect water and wastewater samples and perform routine laboratory tests, such as pH, chlorine residual, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, suspended solids, and other process-control measurements as required.
  • Adjust chemical feed rates, flow rates, equipment settings, and treatment processes to maintain compliance with operating standards and permit requirements.
  • Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, minor repairs, calibration, cleaning, and housekeeping of plant facilities and equipment.
  • Maintain accurate daily logs, operating reports, laboratory records, maintenance records, and regulatory documentation.
  • Identify equipment malfunctions, process abnormalities, safety concerns, and operational issues; report or correct problems in a timely manner.
  • Follow standard operating procedures, safety practices, confined space procedures, chemical handling requirements, and emergency response protocols.
  • Assist with sludge handling, solids processing, equipment start-up and shutdown, and other plant operational tasks as assigned.
  • Respond to alarms, emergencies, after-hours calls, weekends, holidays, and rotating shift assignments as required.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required; technical coursework in water treatment, wastewater treatment, environmental science, chemistry, biology, mechanical systems, or a related field is preferred.
  • Valid driver's license required; commercial driver's license may be required depending on employer needs.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain the required state water and/or wastewater treatment plant operator certification within the timeframe established by the employer or regulatory agency.
  • Previous experience in water treatment, wastewater treatment, utilities, mechanical maintenance, laboratory testing, or industrial operations is preferred but not always required for entry-level positions.
  • Ability to read and understand operating manuals, safety procedures, permits, technical instructions, gauges, meters, maps, and process-control data.
  • Ability to pass required background checks, physical exams, and drug screening, if applicable.
Certification Requirements
The employee must obtain and maintain the appropriate Water Treatment Plant Operator and/or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification required by the state regulatory authority for the facility's classification, treatment process, and system size. Certification level, subclass, testing requirements, continuing education, and renewal requirements may vary by state and by facility. The employer may require certification at hire or may allow an entry-level operator to obtain certification within a specified period after employment.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of basic water and wastewater treatment processes, laboratory testing, chemical safety, and mechanical equipment operation.
  • Skill in observing process conditions, interpreting data, troubleshooting routine problems, and making sound operational adjustments.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare routine reports clearly and on time.
  • Ability to work independently, follow instructions, communicate effectively, and coordinate with supervisors, coworkers, contractors, and regulatory personnel.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools, power tools, meters, safety equipment, and basic computer systems.
  • Commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, environmental protection, and reliable public service.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment
Work is performed in treatment plant, laboratory, mechanical, and outdoor environments. The position may require standing, walking, climbing stairs or ladders, lifting, bending, reaching, working near moving mechanical parts, working in varying weather conditions, and exposure to chemicals, odors, noise, confined spaces, electrical hazards, and wet or slippery surfaces. Personal protective equipment and adherence to safety procedures are required.Preferred Qualifications
  • Current state water or wastewater operator certification.
  • Experience operating SCADA or computerized plant control systems.
  • Experience with preventive maintenance, pumps, motors, valves, chemical feed systems, and process-control equipment.
  • Knowledge of regulatory reporting, permit compliance, and sample collection procedures.
  • Commercial driver's license, equipment operation experience, or additional safety certifications, if required by the employer.

Energy Innovation Center Institute Terms and Conditions:
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