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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forsyth County

Water Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA · On-site

$44K/yr

This is for the Weekend Crew Shift - Thursday - Sunday 7 am - 5:30 pm This is the entry level grade in the Water Equipment Operator series, however, depending on prior experience/training and ...

Forsyth County, GA

Water Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA · On-site

$49K/yr

This is for the Weekend Crew Shift - Thursday - Sunday 7 am - 5:30 pm This is the entry level grade in the Water Equipment Operator series, however, depending on prior experience/training and ...

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Entry Level Water Operator information

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

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 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.

More about Entry Level Water Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Water Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Water Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Water Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 18% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Water Distribution Operator Entry-Level or Level II

Water Distribution Operator Entry-Level or Level II

Riverton City

Riverton, UT • On-site

$19.83 - $29.74/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR

ENTRY-LEVEL OR LEVEL II

OPENING DATE: 5/20/2026

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled

*Job openings are posted for a minimum of three calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the fourth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled at any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

SALARY: Entry Level - GRADE 7 $19.83 - $29.74 hourly (salary will generally begin at the first step of the range, dependent upon education and experience)

Level II - GRADE 8 $21.06 - $31.59 hourly (salary will generally begin at the first step of the range, dependent upon education and experience)

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Riverton City is seeking a full-time position as a Water Distribution Operator at Entry Level or Level II, in the Water Department. This position performs a variety of unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled work related to the installation, maintenance, and repair of the Culinary and/or Secondary Water Distribution Systems.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

(These examples are not all-inclusive)

  • Flushes the Culinary and Secondary Water Systems.
  • Exercises system valves.
  • Assists with system leak repairs.
  • Assists with fire hydrant repairs.
  • Assists with monthly shutoffs and reconnections.
  • Assists with maintenance and repairs of public infrastructure.
  • Operates a variety of hand tools and small power tools.
  • Participates in worksite safety procedures; sets up barricades, safety signs, and signals; may perform flagging duties to ensure work zone safety.
  • Performs minor maintenance on vehicles, equipment, and facilities.
  • Assists/performs daily production calculations.
  • Assists/performs daily security checks and well reads.
  • Assists/performs safety inspections.
  • Completes field reports.
  • May assist with blue staking.
  • Participates in on-call rotations.
  • Operates specialized heavy equipment (II).
  • May perform routine maintenance and repairs to system filters.
  • May perform routine maintenance and repairs to chlorination and fluoridation systems.
  • Any other responsibilities that would be required to maintain effective operations of the department.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Entry Level

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Must possess a valid Utah Driver's License with a good driving record
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • 1+ years' experience in culinary/secondary water systems preferred
  • 1+ years' experience in leak repairs preferred
  • 1+ years' experience as an equipment operator preferred
  • Must get ATSSA flagger certification
  • Must have a Utah Commercial Driver's License A with a tanker endorsement or obtain within 6 months of hire

Level II

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • 2+ years' experience in culinary/secondary water systems required
  • 2+ years' experience as a Water Distribution Operator IV required
  • 1+ years' experience in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) preferred
  • 1+ years' experience as an equipment operator required
  • Must have a Utah Commercial Driver's License A with a tanker endorsement and a good record

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors and other employees
  • Ability to perform manual labor
  • Ability and willingness to work outside in various environmental exposures
  • Good problem-solving and multi-tasking skills required
  • Good customer orientation skills required

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Successful candidates must pass a pre-employment drug screen, a background and driving record check, and a Human Performance Evaluation, be able to lift up to 50 lbs., and provide employment verification (I-9). This position has a six-month probation period.

Riverton City is an Equal Opportunity Employer.



Job Posted by ApplicantPro