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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY

Participatein operator training (training) Work with internal customers to define the training ... Take into account the necessary parameters (water production, energy, etc.) Respect flows, workshop ...

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Entry Level Water Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$12

$17

$21

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Rochester, NY is $17.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.75 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 Rochester, NY? For Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Entry Level Water Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Operator job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,842 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

$15 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Rochester Institute Of Technology rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

288th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Performs grounds maintenance activities including cultivating, planting, watering, aerating, weeding, mulching, trimming, grubbing, removing thatch, trimming/edging, mowing and/or pruning. Cares for lawn, gardens, shrubs, flowers, flower beds, trees and walkways
  • Removes litter from grounds by emptying trash containers, and sweeping doorways, steps, and fire exits. Removes signage/posters, and graffiti, and properly disposes of dead animals, bodily fluids, etc
  • Provides proper upkeep of hard surface areas including, sidewalks, concrete pavers, driveways, parking lots, fountains, planters, or other outdoor structures and amenities
  • Performs removal of snow and ice from assigned areas such as roads, walkways, parking lots, and stairs using hand and power snow removal equipment. Spreads salt, sand, and deicers to prevent slipping
  • Operates a variety of hand and power tools, equipment, snow plows, and tractors. Performs cleaning and maintenance of equipment as needed
  • Provides support for special events throughout campus. Delivers signage, grills, and barricades
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Knowledge of grounds landscape and hardscape maintenance
  • Knowledge of horticulture practices
  • Skill in operating a variety of groundskeeping tools and machinery efficiently and safely
  • Skill in reading and interpreting landscaping plans and work orders
  • Ability to maintain grounds and landscaped areas in an attractive, safe, and functional condition
  • Ability to select and use appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) equipment for tasks performed and conditions encountered

Minimum Education & Experience
  • High School diploma or GED
  • 3 years of relevant experience
  • Equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered

Job Level Overview
Operations, Administrative, Service, or Technical Support Level 2 - An intermediate level role with working foundational knowledge and skills to perform routine and occasionally non-routine tasks. Tasks may require interpretation or deviation from standard procedures. May provide assistance to entry level staff.
About Facilities Management Services (FMS) & Grounds
Facilities Management Services (FMS) supports the RIT community by designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining a high-quality, cost-effective campus environment. The FMS Grounds team plays a key role in this effort by maintaining the exterior campus, including approximately 1,300 acres of land, 32 miles of roads and walkways, and 48 acres of parking lots.
Why Join Our Team
Work with a team that values hard work and the difference it makes every day. FMS provides dependable, year-round employment and hands-on training to help you grow on the job.
Benefits
Eligible for RIT's comprehensive benefits program, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Sick and vacation time
  • 12 paid holidays per year
  • Retirement and financial planning resources
  • Educational benefits for employees and dependents
  • Employee wellness program
  • Free use of on-site fitness facilities

Schedule
Work hours may fall between Sunday-Saturday, 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m., based on departmental needs. This position is designated as essential personnel during the winter months and requires flexibility, including call-ins, weekends, holidays, emergencies, and non-standard work hours.
Driver's License Requirements
A pre-employment Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check is required in accordance with RIT's Vehicle and Driver Safety Procedures.
FLSA Category
Non-Exempt
Work Location
On Campus
Compensation
$ 17.90 - $ 25.00
Application Materials
When you are ready to complete an application for this position please be prepared to submit the below requested information. This will be required to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.
Curriculum Vitae or Resume
Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.
Additional Details
In compliance with NYS's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is listed above. Rochester Institute of Technology considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The hiring process for this position may require a criminal background check and/or motor vehicle records check. Any verbal or written offer made is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by Human Resources. RIT provides equal opportunity to all qualified individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in its hiring, admissions, educational programs and activities. RIT provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.
If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources office at 585-475-2424 or email your request to careers@rit.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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About Rochester Institute of Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a preeminent institution in the education services industry, located in Rochester, NY, US. Renowned globally for its innovative and industry-aligned education, RIT was established in 1829 and has since then been committed to offering academic rigor in fields of study with an emphasis on applied learning. This is evidenced by their broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, science, business, and fine arts. RIT's mission centers on providing technology-based educational programs for career-minded students.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1829

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